Buying your first home is exciting. You’re likely juggling numerous details to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that understanding your future HVAC system is essential. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and potential source of long-term costs, illustrating why a detailed inspection 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 experts, don’t hesitate to contact Bell Mechanical Services. Our experienced team can share details about your options with industry insights that are second to none.

1. What Type of HVAC System Is It?

Start by identifying what kind of HVAC system the home has. Furnaces tend to last longer than air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC products like heat pumps boast average life spans that are even longer. Getting the details on the make and specific model provides a clear idea of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.

2. How Old Is the Current HVAC System?

It also helps to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re considering a new home. On average, HVAC systems tend to run for about 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you prepare for any needed servicing or when it might eventually stop working. Older systems are more prone to problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.

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 lower maintenance costs. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Make sure you go over 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 this kind of history is available. This kind of information can demonstrate if there have been regular problems or how often a tune-up was scheduled. You should at least try to track down a history of 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. Look for the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning as well as 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 more effectively burned for useable heat.

6. Did You See Any Problems After Your Own Inspection?

Even if you don’t have the know-how of an HVAC technician, it’s still a good idea to check out the HVAC system on your own. Keep an eye out for any concerning items that haven’t been mentioned by the seller. This can mean bizarre noises, unequal airflow and attempts to hide any obvious 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 input from trained HVAC technicians. They can spot things you might miss, like refrigerant leaks, wiring issues or flawed ductwork.

A Consultation with Bell Mechanical Services Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Selecting your first home should be thrilling, and Bell Mechanical Services wants to ensure that doesn’t change. Get in touch with us at 888-863-0560. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to step into your new home with confidence.