Buying your first home is exciting. You’re probably juggling a dozen things or more to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your future HVAC system is crucial. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant investment and potential source of long-term costs, so being thorough should be a top priority for first-time homebuyers.

In this guide, we’ll share seven tips for learning everything you can about a home’s heating and cooling system. And if you want a deeper opinion from the pros, feel free to call Jet Electrical, Air Conditioning, Heating & Plumbing. Our staff can share details about your options with industry insights that are second to none.

1. Which Kind of HVAC System Does the Home Use?

Start by clarifying what type of HVAC system the home includes. Furnaces tend to last longer compared to air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps feature average life spans longer than ever. Knowing the make and specific model gives you a much better sense of how much maintenance it will require.

2. How Long Ago Was the System Installed?

It also helps to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re looking at a new home. On average, HVAC systems should survive for around 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you plan for possible repair needs or considerations if it might shut down for good. Older systems may be more vulnerable to problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.

3. Does the System Have a Warranty?

Be sure to check the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, this can lower maintenance costs. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Review any terms that aren’t familiar to make sure you fully understand your coverage and the likelihood of out-of-pocket costs.

4. Has the System Ever Been Professionally Serviced or Maintained?

Take a close look at the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if such information is accessible. This kind of information can demonstrate if the repair needs are high or how much upkeep was provided. Inquire about key tasks like filter changes, which means it enjoyed more regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Selecting a system with strong energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to smaller utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Locate the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning as well as the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. High SEER ratings mean more efficient cooling throughout the season, while strong AFUE ratings illustrate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

6. Can You Spot Trouble After Completing an Informal Inspection?

Even without the know-how of an HVAC technician, you can still take a moment to inspect the HVAC system on your own. Keep an eye out for signs of problems that might have been overlooked. This includes strange noises, stubborn patches of the house that are too hot or cold and attempts to hide any visible damage.

7. Is an Experienced HVAC Technician Available to Help?

If you’re not quite sure about the overall state of the HVAC system, it’s never a bad idea to get input from certified HVAC professionals. They will be much more likely to catch things you may not know about, such as leaking coolant, damage to the wiring or flawed ductwork.

A Chat with Jet Electrical, Air Conditioning, Heating & Plumbing Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey

Choosing your first home should be thrilling, and Jet Electrical, Air Conditioning, Heating & Plumbing wants to ensure it stays that way. Reach out with us at 209-618-4595. We can talk about how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.