Purchasing your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re probably juggling a dozen things or more about making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your future HVAC system is vital. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and source of potential long-term costs, which is why due diligence helps all 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 setup. And if you want a more in-depth opinion from the pros, don't hesitate to contact Pratt Brothers. Our experienced team can share details about your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

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

Start by identifying what kind of HVAC system the home features. Furnaces generally last longer compared to air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC systems like heat pumps can offer average life spans that are even longer. 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?

Another good idea is to find out how old the HVAC system is when you're considering a new home. In general, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Learning its approximate installation date helps you prepare for any needed servicing or considerations if it might shut down for good. Older systems may be more vulnerable to problems, so budgeting for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.

3. What Does the Warranty Cover?

Check if the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, this can lighten the load for maintenance costs. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Review any terms that aren’t familiar to make sure you fully 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 the records are accessible. This kind of information can demonstrate if there have been regular problems 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 can indicate it received regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. Are You Aware of the System’s Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Finding a home that features an HVAC system with high energy efficiency can lead to smaller utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Locate the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning as well as the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. High SEER ratings mean more efficient cooling throughout the season, while higher AFUE ratings indicate 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 check out the HVAC system yourself. Keep an eye out for potential issues that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This can mean bizarre noises, unequal airflow and attempts to cover up any serious damage.

7. Have You Asked Your Local HVAC Professional?

If you're still hesitant to make an offer because of the overall state of the HVAC system, it's beneficial to get an assessment and recommendation from trained HVAC technicians. They can spot things you might miss, such as refrigerant leaks, damage to the wiring or flawed ductwork.

A Call with Pratt Brothers Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey

Finding your first home should be thrilling, and Pratt Brothers will do everything possible to ensure yours is too. Reach out with us at 920-347-8495. 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.