Purchasing your first home is exciting. You’re probably trying to keep track of numerous details to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your potential new HVAC system is crucial. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and source of potential long-term costs, so being thorough is important 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 setup. And if you want a deeper opinion from the pros, consider calling Morgner Inc. Air Conditioning & Heating. Our staff can help you compare your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

1. What Type of HVAC System Is It?

Start by clarifying what type of HVAC system the home features. Furnaces tend to last longer than air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC systems like heat pumps feature average life spans longer than ever. Tracking down 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 also helps to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re considering a new home. In general, HVAC systems tend to run for about 10-12 years. Knowing when it was installed helps you prepare for any needed servicing or considerations if it might break down. Older systems are at a higher risk of 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 help with maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties often cover parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Review 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 the records are accessible. This kind of information can reveal if there have been regular problems or how much upkeep was provided. Inquire about key tasks like filter changes, which is a positive sign indicating regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. Do You Know Its Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Purchasing a home with a heating and cooling system with high energy efficiency can lead to lower utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Try and find 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 higher AFUE ratings indicate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

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

Even if you don’t have heating and cooling expertise, it’s still a good idea to inspect the HVAC system on your own. Watch closely for any concerning items that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This can mean bizarre noises, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts to cover up any visible damage.

7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?

If you’re not quite sure about the current state of the HVAC system, it’s beneficial to get input from experienced HVAC technicians. They will be much more likely to catch things you might miss, like leaking coolant, wiring issues or damaged ductwork.

A Chat with Morgner Inc. Air Conditioning & Heating Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey

Finding your first home ought to be exciting, and Morgner Inc. Air Conditioning & Heating can ensure that doesn’t change. Reach out with us at 314-262-4541. We can talk about how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to step into your new home with confidence.