Buying your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re probably juggling numerous details to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your future HVAC system is crucial. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and potential source of 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 deeper opinion from the experts, don't hesitate to contact JTech Mechanical. Our experienced team can weigh in on your options with industry insights that are second to none.

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

Start by determining what kind of HVAC system the home features. Furnaces tend to last longer compared to air conditioners, and some of the latest types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps can offer average life spans longer than ever. Getting the details on the make and specific model provides a clear idea of how much maintenance it will require.

2. What Is the Current System’s Age?

It also helps to learn how old the HVAC system is when you're considering a new home. For the most part, HVAC systems should survive for around 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you anticipate future maintenance needs or when it might break down. Older systems are more prone to problems, so budgeting for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.

3. Is the Warranty Active?

Don’t forget to look into whether the HVAC system is still under 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 specifics will vary. Review any terms that seem confusing to make sure you fully understand your coverage and any possible out-of-pocket costs.

4. When Was the Last Time It Received Maintenance?

Don't forget to check the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if that information is available. This kind of information can demonstrate if the repair needs are high or how much upkeep was provided. Ask about records for key tasks such as changing the air filter, which is a positive sign indicating regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. Do You Know Its Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Finding a home that features an HVAC system with strong energy efficiency means more manageable utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Locate the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning along with the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the cooling over the whole season, while high AFUE ratings mean the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

6. Have You Noticed Signs of Problems During Your Inspection?

Even if you don’t have the know-how of an HVAC technician, you should still inspect the HVAC system yourself. Watch closely for any concerning items that might have been overlooked. This might consist of odd sounds, stubborn patches of the house that are too hot or cold and attempts to cover up any visible damage.

7. Is an Experienced HVAC Technician Available to Help?

If you're not quite sure about the overall state of the HVAC system, it's beneficial to get input from certified HVAC technicians. They are skilled at identifying things you might not, including leaking coolant, damage to the wiring or damaged ductwork.

A Call with JTech Mechanical Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey

Finding your first home ought to be exciting, and JTech Mechanical will do everything possible to ensure that doesn’t change. Get in touch with us at 281-231-8768. We can talk about how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to step into your new home with confidence.