Purchasing 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 essential. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and potential source of long-term costs, so being thorough helps all first-time homebuyers.
In the following guide, we’ll share seven tips for discovering all there is to know about a home’s heating and cooling setup. And if you want a more in-depth opinion from the experts, consider calling Ohler & Holzhauer Inc.. Our seasoned technicians can share details about your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.
1. Which Kind of HVAC System Does the Home Use?
Start by identifying what kind of HVAC system the home has. Furnaces tend to last longer than air conditioners, and some of the latest types of HVAC systems like heat pumps can offer average life spans longer than ever. Getting the details on the make and specific model gives you a much better sense of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.
2. What Is the Current System’s Age?
Another good idea is to find out how old the HVAC system is when you’re looking at a new home. For the most part, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Learning its approximate installation date helps you prepare for any needed servicing or when it might shut down for good. Older systems are at a higher risk of problems, so budgeting for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.
3. Is the Warranty Active?
Be sure to check the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, you’ll appreciate how it can assist with maintenance costs. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but it’s important to note that details will vary. Don’t forget to look into any terms you don’t recognize to ensure you understand your coverage and potential out-of-pocket costs.
4. Does the System Have a Documented Maintenance History?
Take a close look at the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if the records are accessible. This service history can demonstrate if there have been regular problems or how often maintenance is performed. Inquire about key tasks like filter changes, which is a positive sign indicating regularly scheduled tune-ups.
5. Do You Know Its Energy Efficiency Ratings?
Purchasing a home with a heating and cooling system with strong energy efficiency can lead to smaller utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Check out 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 high AFUE ratings illustrate that the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.
6. Can You Spot Trouble After Your Own Inspection?
Even without the know-how of an HVAC technician, you can still take a moment to inspect the HVAC system yourself. Keep an eye out for potential issues that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This includes strange noises, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts to cover up any serious damage.
7. Is an Experienced HVAC Technician Available to Help?
If you’re unsure about the condition of the HVAC system, it’s never a bad idea to get input from trained HVAC professionals. They will be much more likely to catch things you may not know about, like leaks in the refrigerant, wiring issues or damaged ductwork.
A Chat with Ohler & Holzhauer Inc. Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey
Finding your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and Ohler & Holzhauer Inc. wants to ensure it stays that way. Reach out with us at 419-465-8722. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.