Buying your first home is exciting. You’re likely trying to keep track of a dozen things or more 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, so being thorough should be a top priority for first-time homebuyers.

In the following 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 pros, don’t hesitate to contact Myers Furnace Company. Our staff can weigh in on your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

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

Start by identifying what type of HVAC system the home has. Furnaces generally last longer than air conditioners, and some of the latest types of HVAC systems like heat pumps can offer average life spans that are impressively long. Tracking down the make and specific model ensures you have a much better sense of how much maintenance it will require.

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 new home. On average, HVAC systems tend to run for about 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you prepare for any needed servicing or when it might eventually stop working. Older systems are more prone to problems, so planning ahead of time 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 covered by a warranty. If it is, you’ll appreciate how it can lighten the load for maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties should take care of 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 potential 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 demonstrate if the repair needs are high or how much upkeep was provided. Ask about records for key tasks like filter changes, which is a positive sign indicating regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. Do You Know Its Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Selecting a system with high energy efficiency means smaller utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Check out 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 illustrate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

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

Even if you don’t have experience in HVAC systems, it’s still a good idea to inspect the HVAC system yourself. Look for signs of problems that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This can mean bizarre noises, unequal airflow and attempts to cover up any obvious damage.

7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?

If you’re unsure about the overall state of the HVAC system, it’s beneficial to get input from trained HVAC technicians. They can spot things you may not know about, like refrigerant leaks, bad electrical connections or inefficient ductwork.

A Call with Myers Furnace Company Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey

Finding your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and Myers Furnace Company wants to ensure that doesn’t change. Reach out with us at 816-249-1619. We can talk about how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to step into your new home with confidence.