Buying your first home is exciting. You’re probably trying to keep track of a dozen things or more about making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your potential new HVAC system is vital. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant investment and source of potential long-term costs, which is why due diligence is important for first-time homebuyers.
In this 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, feel free to call Ohler & Holzhauer Inc.. Our seasoned technicians can share details about your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.
1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?
Start by clarifying what specific HVAC system the home has. Furnaces generally last longer than air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC systems like heat pumps can offer average life spans longer than ever. Tracking down the make and specific model gives you a much better sense of how much maintenance it will require.
2. What Is the Current System’s Age?
It’s just as smart to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re considering a potential new home. In general, HVAC systems tend to run for about 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 are at a higher risk of problems, so budgeting for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.
3. Does the System Have a Warranty?
Don’t forget to look into whether the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, you’ll appreciate how it can help with maintenance costs. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but it’s important to note that details will vary. Make sure you go over any terms you don’t recognize to ensure you understand your coverage and any possible out-of-pocket costs.
4. Has the System Ever Been Professionally Serviced or Maintained?
Next, examine the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if that information is available. This kind of information can demonstrate if the system constantly broke down or how often maintenance is performed. You should at least try to track down a history of key tasks such as changing the air filter, which means it enjoyed more regularly scheduled tune-ups.
5. Are You Aware of the System’s Energy Efficiency Ratings?
Purchasing a home with a heating and cooling system with great energy efficiency can lead to smaller utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Look for the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning as well as the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. Higher SEER ratings mean better cooling across the entire season, while higher AFUE ratings illustrate that the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.
6. Did You See Any Problems After Completing an Informal Inspection?
Even if you don’t have the know-how of an HVAC technician, you can still take a moment to examine the HVAC system on your own. Look for signs of problems that might have been overlooked. This includes strange noises, unequal airflow and attempts to cover up any obvious 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, including leaking coolant, bad electrical connections or damaged ductwork.
A Consultation with Ohler & Holzhauer Inc. Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey
Choosing your first home should be thrilling, and Ohler & Holzhauer Inc. will do everything possible to ensure it stays that way. Get in touch with us at 419-465-8722. We can talk about how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.