Completing the search for your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re likely trying to keep track of numerous details to ensure you’re 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, so being thorough helps all first-time homebuyers.

In this guide, we’ll outline seven tips for discovering all there is to know about a home’s heating and cooling setup. And if you want a deeper opinion from the pros, don’t hesitate to contact Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces. Our experienced team can share details about your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

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

Start by identifying what type of HVAC system the home features. Furnaces generally last longer compared to air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC systems like heat pumps feature average life spans that are even longer. Tracking down the make and specific model provides a much better sense of how much routine maintenance it might need.

2. How Long Ago Was the System Installed?

It’s just as smart to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re considering a potential new home. On average, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you prepare for any needed servicing or when it might break down. 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?

Be sure to check the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, that’s great news because it can help with maintenance costs. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Make sure you go over any terms you don’t recognize to ensure you 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 accessible. This kind of information can reveal if the system constantly broke down or how often a tune-up was scheduled. Inquire about key tasks like filter changes, which is a positive sign indicating regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Purchasing a home with a heating and cooling system with great energy efficiency can lead to lower utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Try and find the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning along with the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. Higher SEER ratings mean better cooling across the entire season, while higher AFUE ratings mean the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.

6. Have You Noticed Signs of Problems After Completing an Informal Inspection?

Even if you don’t have heating and cooling expertise, you should still inspect the HVAC system yourself. Keep an eye out for any concerning items that haven’t been mentioned by the seller. This includes strange noises, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts to cover up any serious damage.

7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?

If you’re not quite sure about the overall state of the HVAC system, it’s never a bad idea to get input from certified HVAC technicians. They can spot things you might not, including refrigerant leaks, damage to the wiring or damaged ductwork.

A Chat with Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey

Choosing your first home should be thrilling, and Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces wants to ensure that doesn’t change. Reach out with us at 308-762-1613. We can talk about how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.