Completing the search for your first home is thrilling. You’re likely juggling a dozen things or more about making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your future HVAC system is vital. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and source of potential long-term costs, so being thorough 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 more in-depth opinion from the pros, feel free to call Stanford Heating & Cooling. Our seasoned technicians can share details about your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

1. Which Kind of HVAC System Does the Home Use?

Start by identifying what kind of HVAC system the home includes. Furnaces generally last longer than air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps feature average life spans that are impressively long. Getting the details on the make and specific model ensures you have a clear idea of how much routine maintenance it might need.

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. On average, HVAC systems tend to run for about 10-12 years. Learning its approximate installation date helps you prepare for any needed servicing or considerations if it might shut down for good. Older systems are more prone to problems, so budgeting for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.

3. Does the System Have a Warranty?

Check if the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, you’ll appreciate how it can lower maintenance costs. HVAC warranties often cover parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Make sure you go over 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?

Don't forget to check the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if such information is accessible. This service history can demonstrate if the repair needs are high or how often a tune-up was scheduled. You should at least try to track down a history of key tasks like filter changes, which can indicate it received regularly scheduled tune-ups.

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

Finding a home that features an HVAC system with great energy efficiency means more manageable utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Look for the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning as well as the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the cooling over the whole season, while higher AFUE ratings indicate that the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.

6. Can You Spot Trouble After Your Own Inspection?

Even without heating and cooling expertise, you can still take a moment to examine the HVAC system yourself. Look for any concerning items that might have been overlooked. This might consist of odd sounds, unequal airflow and attempts to cover up any serious damage.

7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?

If you're not quite sure about the current state of the HVAC system, it's never a bad idea to get input from trained HVAC professionals. They are skilled at identifying things you might not, such as refrigerant leaks, damage to the wiring or flawed ductwork.

A Consultation with Stanford Heating & Cooling Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey

Selecting your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and Stanford Heating & Cooling wants to ensure it stays that way. Reach out with us at 812-825-8695. 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.