Completing the search for your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re likely juggling a dozen things or more about making the right choice. We believe that understanding your future HVAC system is vital. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and source of potential long-term costs, which is why due diligence should be a top priority for 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 system. And if you want a deeper opinion from the pros, feel free to call County Line Mechanical LLC. Our seasoned technicians can weigh in on your options with industry insights that are second to none.

1. What Type of HVAC System Is It?

Start by clarifying what kind of HVAC system the home has. Furnaces tend to last longer compared to air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps can offer average life spans that are even longer. Getting the details on the make and specific model ensures you have a much better sense of how much routine maintenance it might need.

2. How Long Ago Was the System Installed?

Another good idea is to find out how old the HVAC system is when you're looking at 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 when 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 Still in Effect?

Check if the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, you’ll appreciate how it can lower maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Make sure you go over any terms that aren’t familiar to make sure you fully understand your coverage and the likelihood of out-of-pocket costs.

4. Does the System Have a Documented Maintenance History?

Next, examine the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if the records are available. This service history can reveal if the repair needs are high or how often a tune-up was scheduled. Inquire about key tasks such as changing the air filter, which can indicate it received regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. Are You Aware of the System’s Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Selecting a 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 and the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the cooling over the whole season, while higher AFUE ratings illustrate that the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.

6. Did You See Any Problems During Your Inspection?

Even if you don’t have experience in HVAC systems, it's still a good idea to examine the HVAC system yourself. Keep an eye out for signs of problems that might have been overlooked. This includes strange noises, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts at concealing any visible 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 beneficial to get input from trained HVAC professionals. They are skilled at identifying things you might not, such as leaking coolant, bad electrical connections or inefficient ductwork.

A Chat with County Line Mechanical LLC Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey

Choosing your first home should be thrilling, and County Line Mechanical LLC will do everything possible to ensure it stays that way. Connect with us at 717-216-0846. We can talk about how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.