Purchasing your first home is thrilling. You’re likely juggling numerous details about making the right choice. We believe that understanding your potential new HVAC system is crucial. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and source of potential long-term costs, so being thorough helps all 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 more in-depth opinion from the experts, don’t hesitate to contact Kilbourne Heating & AC. Our experienced team can weigh in on your options with industry insights that are second to none.

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

Start by determining what kind of HVAC system the home includes. Furnaces generally last longer than air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC systems like heat pumps feature average life spans longer than ever. Knowing the make and specific model gives you a clear idea of how much routine maintenance it might need.

2. How Old Is the Current HVAC System?

It’s just as smart to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re considering a new home. On average, HVAC systems should survive for around 10-12 years. Knowing when it was installed helps you prepare for any needed servicing or considerations if it might shut down for good. Older systems are more prone to problems, so budgeting for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.

3. Is the Warranty Active?

Don’t forget to look into whether the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, this can help with maintenance costs. HVAC warranties often cover parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Don’t forget to look into any terms that seem confusing 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 this kind of history is accessible. This kind of information can reveal if there have been regular problems or how often a tune-up was scheduled. Ask about records for key tasks such as changing the air filter, 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 great energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to lower utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Locate the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning along with the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. High SEER ratings mean more efficient cooling throughout the season, while higher AFUE ratings indicate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

6. Did You See Any Problems During Your Inspection?

Even without experience in HVAC systems, it’s still a good idea to check out the HVAC system yourself. Look for any concerning items that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This might consist of odd sounds, stubborn patches of the house that are too hot or cold and attempts to cover up any obvious damage.

7. Is an Experienced HVAC Technician Available to Help?

If you’re unsure about the overall state of the HVAC system, it’s never a bad idea to get an assessment and recommendation from certified HVAC professionals. They are skilled at identifying things you may not know about, like refrigerant leaks, wiring issues or inefficient ductwork.

A Call with Kilbourne Heating & AC Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Choosing your first home should be thrilling, and Kilbourne Heating & AC will do everything possible to ensure that doesn’t change. Reach out with us at 561-287-7071. We can talk about how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.