Purchasing your first home is thrilling. 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 essential. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant investment and potential source of long-term costs, so being thorough should be a top priority 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 setup. And if you want a more in-depth opinion from the pros, don’t hesitate to contact JTech Mechanical. Our staff can share details about your options with industry insights that are second to none.

1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?

Start by clarifying what kind of HVAC system the home includes. Furnaces tend to last longer than air conditioners, and some of the latest types of HVAC products like heat pumps feature average life spans longer than ever. Knowing the make and specific model gives you a clear idea of how much maintenance it will require.

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. In general, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Learning its approximate installation date helps you anticipate future maintenance needs or when it might eventually stop working. Older systems are at a higher risk of problems, so planning ahead of time for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.

3. Is the Warranty Active?

Don’t forget to look into whether 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 often cover parts and labor, but it’s important to note that details will vary. Don’t forget to look into any terms that aren’t familiar to ensure you understand your coverage and any possible out-of-pocket costs.

4. Has the System Ever Been Professionally Serviced or Maintained?

Next, examine the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if that information is available. This service history can reveal if the system constantly broke down or how often maintenance is performed. Inquire about key tasks such as changing the air filter, which is a positive sign indicating regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Finding a home that features an HVAC system with high energy efficiency means more manageable utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Try and find the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning and the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. Higher SEER ratings mean better cooling across the entire season, while high AFUE ratings indicate that the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.

6. Can You Spot Trouble After Completing an Informal Inspection?

Even if you don’t have the know-how of an HVAC technician, you can still take a moment to check out the HVAC system on your own. Watch closely for signs of problems that might have been overlooked. This might consist of odd sounds, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts to hide any obvious 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 an assessment and recommendation from trained HVAC technicians. They can spot things you may not know about, like leaking coolant, wiring issues or inefficient ductwork.

A Consultation with JTech Mechanical Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Choosing your first home should be thrilling, and JTech Mechanical will do everything possible to ensure yours is too. Get in touch with us at 281-231-8768. 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.