Completing the search for your first home is exciting. You’re probably juggling a dozen things or more about making the right choice. We believe that understanding your future HVAC system is vital. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and potential source of long-term costs, which is why due diligence is important 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 system. And if you want a deeper opinion from the pros, feel free to call Forster Heating. Our experienced team can share details about your options with industry insights that are second to none.

1. What Type of HVAC System Is It?

Start by clarifying what type of HVAC system the home has. Furnaces generally last longer compared to air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC systems like heat pumps boast 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 maintenance it will require.

2. What Is the Current System’s Age?

It’s just as smart to learn how old the HVAC system is when you're considering a new home. In general, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Knowing when it was installed helps you prepare for any needed servicing or when it might shut down for good. Older systems are more prone to problems, so planning ahead of time for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.

3. Is the Warranty Still in Effect?

Be sure to check the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, that's great news because it can assist with maintenance costs. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Review any terms that aren’t familiar to make sure you fully understand your coverage and potential out-of-pocket costs.

4. When Was the Last Time It Received Maintenance?

Take a close look at the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if the records are available. This kind of information can demonstrate if the system constantly broke down or how often maintenance is performed. Ask about records for key tasks such as changing the air filter, which can indicate it received regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. Do You Know Its Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Purchasing a home with a heating and cooling system with strong energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to lower utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Try and find the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning along with the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. High SEER ratings mean more efficient cooling throughout the season, while strong AFUE ratings illustrate that the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.

6. Did You See Any Problems After Completing an Informal Inspection?

Even if you don’t have heating and cooling expertise, you should still check out the HVAC system yourself. Watch closely for any concerning items that haven't been mentioned by the seller. This can mean bizarre noises, unequal airflow and attempts at concealing any obvious damage.

7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?

If you're not quite sure about the overall state of the HVAC system, it's never a bad idea to get a professional opinion from trained HVAC technicians. They will be much more likely to catch things you might not, like leaks in the refrigerant, bad electrical connections or flawed ductwork.

A Chat with Forster Heating Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Finding your first home should be thrilling, and Forster Heating will do everything possible to ensure that doesn’t change. Connect with us at 530-885-8081. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to step into your new home with confidence.