Completing the search for your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re probably juggling numerous details about making the right choice. We believe that understanding your future HVAC system is essential. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and source of potential long-term costs, illustrating why a detailed inspection 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 pros, don't hesitate to contact Polar Air & Mechanical. Our staff 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 identifying what specific HVAC system the home features. Furnaces tend to last longer than air conditioners, and some of the latest types of HVAC products like heat pumps feature average life spans that are impressively long. Getting the details on the make and specific model provides a much better sense of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.

2. How Old Is the Current HVAC System?

It’s just as smart to learn how old the HVAC system is when you're considering a potential new home. In general, HVAC systems should survive for around 10-12 years. Knowing when it was installed helps you anticipate future maintenance needs or when it might break down. Older systems may be more vulnerable to problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.

3. Is the Warranty Active?

Check if the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, that's great news because it 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 any possible out-of-pocket costs.

4. Does the System Have a Documented Maintenance History?

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 repair needs are high or how often a tune-up was scheduled. Ask about records for key tasks like filter changes, which means it enjoyed more regularly scheduled tune-ups.

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

Finding a home that features an HVAC system with great energy efficiency means smaller utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Locate 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 more effectively burned for useable heat.

6. Did You See Any Problems During Your Inspection?

Even if you don’t have experience in HVAC systems, you can still take a moment to check out the HVAC system yourself. Watch closely for any concerning items that haven't been mentioned by the seller. This includes strange noises, unequal airflow and attempts to hide 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 wise to get an assessment and recommendation from experienced HVAC professionals. They are skilled at identifying things you might miss, including refrigerant leaks, damage to the wiring or inefficient ductwork.

A Chat with Polar Air & Mechanical Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Selecting your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and Polar Air & Mechanical will do everything possible to ensure yours is too. Reach out with us at 843-253-4874. We can discuss how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.