Purchasing your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re likely trying to keep track of a dozen things or more about making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your potential new HVAC system is crucial. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant investment and potential source of long-term costs, which is why due diligence is important for first-time homebuyers.

In this guide, we’ll outline seven tips for learning everything you can about a home’s heating and cooling system. And if you want a more in-depth opinion from the pros, consider calling Gilray Heating and Cooling. Our seasoned technicians can help you compare your options with industry insights that are second to none.

1. What Type of HVAC System Is It?

Start by determining what specific HVAC system the home features. Furnaces generally last longer compared to air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC products like heat pumps feature average life spans that are impressively long. Tracking down the make and specific model provides a clear understanding of how much maintenance it will require.

2. How Long Ago Was the System Installed?

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 anticipate future maintenance needs or considerations if it might shut down for good. Older systems are at a higher risk of problems, so planning ahead of time for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.

3. What Does the Warranty Cover?

Check if the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, you’ll appreciate how it can lower maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but it's important to note that details will vary. Review any terms that aren’t familiar to ensure you understand your coverage and any possible 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 such information is accessible. This service history can demonstrate if the system constantly broke down or how often a tune-up was scheduled. You should at least try to track down a history of key tasks like filter changes, which means it enjoyed more 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 isn’t just smart; it leads to more manageable 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. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the cooling over the whole season, while high AFUE ratings illustrate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

6. Can You Spot Trouble After Your Own Inspection?

Even if you don’t have experience in HVAC systems, you can still take a moment to examine the HVAC system yourself. Keep an eye out for any concerning items that might have been overlooked. This can mean bizarre noises, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts at concealing any visible damage.

7. Is an Experienced HVAC Technician Available to Help?

If you're unsure about the current state of the HVAC system, it's wise to get a professional opinion from certified HVAC professionals. They will be much more likely to catch things you might miss, such as leaks in the refrigerant, damage to the wiring or inefficient ductwork.

A Call with Gilray Heating and Cooling Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey

Selecting your first home should be thrilling, and Gilray Heating and Cooling will do everything possible to ensure that doesn’t change. Connect with us at 715-301-0727. 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.