Completing the search for your first home is exciting. You’re likely juggling numerous details to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that understanding your potential new HVAC system is crucial. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and source of potential long-term costs, so being thorough is important for first-time homebuyers.

In this guide, we’ll outline 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 experts, don't hesitate to contact ACS Heating and Air Conditioning. Our seasoned technicians can share details about your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?

Start by determining what type of HVAC system the home features. Furnaces tend to last longer than air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC systems like heat pumps feature average life spans that are impressively long. Getting the details on the make and specific model gives you a clear understanding of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.

2. How Long Ago Was the System Installed?

Another good idea is to find out how old the HVAC system is when you're considering a potential new home. In general, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Knowing when it was installed helps you anticipate future maintenance needs or considerations if it might eventually stop working. Older systems may be more vulnerable to problems, so budgeting for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.

3. Does the System Have a Warranty?

Don’t forget to look into whether the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, this can lighten the load for maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Make sure you go over any terms you don’t recognize to make sure you fully understand your coverage and potential out-of-pocket costs.

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

Take a close look at the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if this kind of history is available. This kind of information can reveal if there have been regular problems or how often maintenance is performed. Inquire about 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 means smaller utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Try and find the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning as well as 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. Have You Noticed Signs of Problems During Your Inspection?

Even if you don’t have heating and cooling expertise, it's still a good idea to examine the HVAC system on your own. Keep an eye out for any concerning items that might have been overlooked. This can mean bizarre noises, unequal airflow and attempts at concealing any obvious damage.

7. Have You Asked Your Local HVAC Professional?

If you're still hesitant to make an offer because of the current state of the HVAC system, it's wise to get input from trained HVAC professionals. They can spot things you might miss, like leaking coolant, wiring issues or damaged ductwork.

A Call with ACS Heating and Air Conditioning Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Choosing your first home ought to be exciting, and ACS Heating and Air Conditioning can ensure yours is too. Connect with us at 770-450-1539. We can talk about how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.