Purchasing your first home is thrilling. You’re likely trying to keep track of numerous details about making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your potential new HVAC system is crucial. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant investment and potential source of long-term costs, illustrating why a detailed inspection is important 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 more in-depth opinion from the pros, don’t hesitate to contact Bell Mechanical Services. Our experienced team can share details about your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

1. What Type of HVAC System Is It?

Start by determining what kind of HVAC system the home includes. Furnaces tend to last longer compared to air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps feature average life spans longer than ever. Knowing the make and specific model ensures you have a much better sense 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. On average, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you plan for possible repair needs or considerations if it might break down. Older systems are more prone to problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.

3. Does the System Have a Warranty?

Be sure to check the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, you’ll appreciate how it can assist with maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties often cover parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Review any terms you don’t recognize to ensure you 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 accessible. This service history can reveal if the system constantly broke down or how often a tune-up was scheduled. Inquire about key tasks such as changing the air filter, which means it enjoyed more regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Finding a home that features an HVAC system with great energy efficiency means smaller utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Check out the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning along with 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 indicate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

6. Can You Spot Trouble After Your Own Inspection?

Even without heating and cooling expertise, it’s still a good idea to examine the HVAC system yourself. Look for any concerning items that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This includes strange noises, unequal airflow and attempts to cover up any serious damage.

7. Have You Asked Your Local HVAC Professional?

If you’re unsure about the current state of the HVAC system, it’s beneficial to get an assessment and recommendation from certified HVAC professionals. They will be much more likely to catch things you may not know about, including leaking coolant, bad electrical connections or damaged ductwork.

A Call with Bell Mechanical Services Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey

Selecting your first home ought to be exciting, and Bell Mechanical Services will do everything possible to ensure it stays that way. Get in touch with us at 888-863-0560. We can talk about how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.