Purchasing your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re probably juggling numerous details about making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your potential new HVAC system is vital. 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 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 experts, consider calling Franklin's Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. Our seasoned technicians can weigh in on your options with industry insights that are second to none.

1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?

Start by clarifying what type of HVAC system the home features. Furnaces tend to last longer compared to air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC systems like heat pumps can offer average life spans longer than ever. Tracking down the make and specific model provides a clear understanding of how much routine maintenance it might need.

2. How Long Ago Was the System Installed?

Another good idea is to find out how old the HVAC system is when you’re looking at a new home. On average, HVAC systems should survive for around 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 may be more vulnerable to problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.

3. Is the Warranty Active?

Don’t forget to look into whether the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, this can help with maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Review any terms that seem confusing 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?

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. You should at least try to track down a history of key tasks such as changing the air filter, which means it enjoyed more regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Purchasing a home with a heating and cooling system with great energy efficiency can lead to lower utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Look for the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning and 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 efficiently converted into useable heat.

6. Can You Spot Trouble After Completing an Informal Inspection?

Even without the know-how of an HVAC technician, you can still take a moment to check out the HVAC system yourself. Look for any concerning items that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This includes strange noises, unequal airflow and attempts at concealing any obvious damage.

7. Have You Asked Your Local HVAC Professional?

If you’re not quite sure about the condition of the HVAC system, it’s beneficial to get input from trained HVAC professionals. They will be much more likely to catch things you may not know about, like refrigerant leaks, damage to the wiring or inefficient ductwork.

A Call with Franklin's Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Selecting your first home should be thrilling, and Franklin's Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc will do everything possible to ensure yours is too. Reach out with us at 662-281-1231. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to step into your new home with confidence.