Purchasing your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re probably juggling a dozen things or more to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your future 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 helps all first-time homebuyers.

In this 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 experts, don't hesitate to contact Childress Heating & AC. Our seasoned technicians can help you compare your options with industry insights that are second to none.

1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?

Start by identifying what type of HVAC system the home has. Furnaces generally last longer compared to air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC systems like heat pumps feature average life spans longer than ever. Tracking down the make and specific model provides a much better sense of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.

2. How Old Is the Current HVAC System?

It’s just as smart to learn how old the HVAC system is when you're considering a potential new home. In general, HVAC systems should survive for around 10-12 years. Learning its approximate installation date helps you anticipate future maintenance needs or considerations if it might eventually stop working. Older systems are at a higher risk of problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.

3. What Does the Warranty Cover?

Check if the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, you’ll appreciate how it can lighten the load for maintenance costs. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but it's important to note that details 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. When Was the Last Time It Received Maintenance?

Next, examine the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if the records are accessible. This service history can reveal if the repair needs are high or how often maintenance is performed. You should at least try to track down a history of key tasks like filter changes, which means it enjoyed more regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. Do You Know Its Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Selecting a system with strong energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to smaller utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Look for 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 strong AFUE ratings illustrate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

6. Did You See Any Problems After Completing an Informal 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 yourself. Keep an eye out for signs of problems that haven't been mentioned by the seller. This can mean bizarre noises, unequal airflow and attempts to hide any visible damage.

7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?

If you're not quite sure about the current state of the HVAC system, it's beneficial to get an assessment and recommendation from certified HVAC professionals. They are skilled at identifying things you might not, including leaks in the refrigerant, wiring issues or damaged ductwork.

A Chat with Childress Heating & AC Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Choosing your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and Childress Heating & AC can ensure that doesn’t change. Connect with us at 540-675-4306. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.