Buying your first home is exciting. You’re probably trying to keep track of a dozen things or more to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that understanding your potential new HVAC system is essential. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and source of potential long-term costs, which is why due diligence is important for first-time homebuyers.

In this guide, we’ll outline seven tips for learning everything you can about a home’s heating and cooling setup. And if you want a deeper opinion from the pros, consider calling Miller Climate Control LLC. Our staff can weigh in on your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

1. What Type of HVAC System Is It?

Start by identifying what specific HVAC system the home has. Furnaces generally last longer than air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC products like heat pumps can offer average life spans longer than ever. Getting the details on the make and specific model provides a much better sense of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.

2. What Is the Current System’s Age?

It’s just as smart to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re looking at a potential 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 considerations if it might shut down for good. Older systems are more prone to problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.

3. Is the Warranty Active?

Be sure to check the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, this can help with maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but it’s important to note that details will vary. Don’t forget to look into any terms that seem confusing to ensure you understand your coverage and the likelihood of out-of-pocket costs.

4. Does the System Have a Documented Maintenance History?

Don’t forget to check the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if that information is accessible. This service history can reveal if there have been regular problems or how much upkeep was provided. You should at least try to track down a history of 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 great energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to more manageable utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Try and find the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning and 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. Can You Spot Trouble During Your Inspection?

Even if you don’t have the know-how of an HVAC technician, you should still inspect the HVAC system yourself. Look for potential issues that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This can mean bizarre noises, unequal airflow and attempts to hide any visible damage.

7. Have You Asked Your Local HVAC Professional?

If you’re unsure about the condition of the HVAC system, it’s wise to get an assessment and recommendation from certified HVAC technicians. They will be much more likely to catch things you may not know about, including refrigerant leaks, wiring issues or damaged ductwork.

A Chat with Miller Climate Control LLC Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Finding your first home should be thrilling, and Miller Climate Control LLC wants to ensure that doesn’t change. Get in touch with us at 512-937-2001. We can discuss how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.