Completing the search for your first home is exciting. You’re likely trying to keep track of 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, illustrating why a detailed inspection should be a top priority for 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 deeper opinion from the pros, feel free to call Diedrick's Heating and Air Conditioning. 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 determining what specific HVAC system the home features. Furnaces generally last longer than air conditioners, and some of the latest types of HVAC systems like heat pumps can offer average life spans longer than ever. Tracking down the make and specific model ensures you have a much better sense of how much maintenance it will require.

2. What Is the Current System’s Age?

It also helps 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 prepare for any needed servicing or when it might shut down for good. Older systems may be more vulnerable to problems, so planning ahead of time for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.

3. Is the Warranty Active?

Check if the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, you’ll appreciate how it can lighten the load for maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties often cover parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Don’t forget to look into 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 that information is available. This kind of information can reveal if the system constantly broke down 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 means it enjoyed more regularly scheduled tune-ups.

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

Selecting a system with strong energy efficiency means smaller utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Check out the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning and the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. High SEER ratings mean more efficient cooling throughout the season, while strong AFUE ratings mean the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.

6. Did You See Any Problems During Your Inspection?

Even without experience in HVAC systems, you can still take a moment to inspect the HVAC system yourself. Keep an eye out for signs of problems that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This can mean bizarre noises, unequal airflow and attempts to cover up any serious damage.

7. Is an Experienced HVAC Technician Available to Help?

If you’re unsure about the condition of the HVAC system, it’s beneficial to get input from certified HVAC technicians. They are skilled at identifying things you might miss, such as leaks in the refrigerant, damage to the wiring or flawed ductwork.

A Chat with Diedrick's Heating and Air Conditioning Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey

Choosing your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and Diedrick's Heating and Air Conditioning will do everything possible to ensure yours is too. Reach out with us at 920-833-7967. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.