Completing the search for your first home is thrilling. You’re probably juggling a dozen things or more to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that understanding 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 the following guide, we’ll outline 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 pros, don’t hesitate to contact Dave's Diversified Services. Our seasoned technicians can weigh in on your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

1. What Type of HVAC System Is It?

Start by determining what type of HVAC system the home has. Furnaces tend to last longer than air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC systems like heat pumps boast average life spans longer than ever. Getting the details on the make and specific model ensures you have a clear idea of how much routine maintenance it might need.

2. What Is the Current System’s Age?

Another good idea is to find out how old the HVAC system is when you’re considering a potential new home. In general, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Learning its approximate installation date helps you anticipate future maintenance needs or considerations if it might shut down for good. Older systems may be more vulnerable to problems, so budgeting for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.

3. What Does the Warranty Cover?

Don’t forget to look into whether the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, this can lower maintenance costs. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Make sure you go over any terms that seem confusing to make sure you fully understand your coverage and any possible 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 the records are available. This kind of information can reveal if the repair needs are high 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. Are You Aware of the System’s Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Finding a home that features an HVAC system with strong energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to smaller utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Try and find 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 strong AFUE ratings indicate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

6. Have You Noticed Signs of Problems After Your Own Inspection?

Even if you don’t have experience in HVAC systems, it’s still a good idea to inspect the HVAC system yourself. Watch closely for any concerning items that might have been overlooked. This might consist of odd sounds, unequal airflow and attempts to cover up any serious damage.

7. Is an Experienced HVAC Technician Available to Help?

If you’re still hesitant to make an offer because of the condition of the HVAC system, it’s never a bad idea to get a professional opinion from trained HVAC professionals. They can spot things you might miss, like leaks in the refrigerant, wiring issues or inefficient ductwork.

A Consultation with Dave's Diversified Services Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Finding your first home ought to be exciting, and Dave's Diversified Services can ensure yours is too. Get in touch with us at 540-636-3396. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.