Buying your first home is exciting. You’re likely juggling numerous details about making the right choice. We believe that understanding your potential new HVAC system is crucial. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant investment and potential source of long-term costs, which is why due diligence should be a top priority for first-time homebuyers.

In the following guide, we’ll outline seven tips for learning everything you can about a home’s heating and cooling system. And if you want a deeper opinion from the pros, don't hesitate to contact Knoechel Heating. Our experienced team can weigh in on your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?

Start by identifying what kind of HVAC system the home has. Furnaces tend to last longer than air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC products like heat pumps boast average life spans that are impressively long. Knowing the make and specific model ensures you have a clear idea of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.

2. How Long Ago Was the System Installed?

It’s just as smart to learn how old the HVAC system is when you're looking at a new home. For the most part, HVAC systems tend to run for about 10-12 years. Learning its approximate installation date helps you plan for possible repair needs or considerations if it might shut down for good. Older systems are at a higher risk of problems, so budgeting for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.

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 often cover parts and labor, but it's important to note that details will vary. Don’t forget to look into any terms you don’t recognize to make sure you fully understand your coverage and the likelihood of out-of-pocket costs.

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

Don't forget to check the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if the records are accessible. This service history can demonstrate if there have been regular problems or how often a tune-up was scheduled. Ask about records for key tasks like filter changes, which is a positive sign indicating regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Purchasing a home with a heating and cooling system with great energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to lower utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Locate 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 strong AFUE ratings mean the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.

6. Have You Noticed Signs of Problems After Completing an Informal Inspection?

Even if you don’t have heating and cooling expertise, you should still check out the HVAC system on your own. Look for potential issues that might have been overlooked. This can mean bizarre noises, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts to hide any visible damage.

7. Have You Asked Your Local HVAC Professional?

If you're not quite sure about the condition of the HVAC system, it's wise to get a professional opinion from certified HVAC technicians. They will be much more likely to catch things you might not, like leaks in the refrigerant, wiring issues or inefficient ductwork.

A Chat with Knoechel Heating Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey

Choosing your first home ought to be exciting, and Knoechel Heating wants to ensure it stays that way. Connect with us at 724-425-5852. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.