Buying your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re probably juggling a dozen things or more 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 significant investment and potential source of long-term costs, illustrating why a detailed inspection helps all 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 more in-depth opinion from the pros, consider calling Contra Costa Heating & AC. Our seasoned technicians 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 clarifying what specific HVAC system the home features. Furnaces generally last longer than air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC systems like heat pumps boast average life spans that are even longer. Getting the details on the make and specific model ensures you have a much better sense of how much maintenance it will require.

2. What Is the Current System’s Age?

It’s just as smart to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re looking at a new home. In general, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Learning its approximate installation date helps you anticipate future maintenance needs or when it might shut down for good. Older systems are more prone to problems, so budgeting for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.

3. Is the Warranty Still in Effect?

Be sure to check the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, that’s great news because it can lighten the load for maintenance costs. 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 the likelihood of out-of-pocket costs.

4. When Was the Last Time It Received Maintenance?

Take a close look at the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if this kind of history is accessible. This kind of information can reveal if the repair needs are high or how often maintenance is performed. Inquire about key tasks like filter changes, which can indicate it received regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Selecting a system with great energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to smaller utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Check out 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 higher AFUE ratings mean the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

6. Have You Noticed Signs of Problems After Completing an Informal Inspection?

Even if you don’t have heating and cooling expertise, it’s still a good idea to check out the HVAC system on your own. Watch closely for potential issues that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This includes strange noises, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts to cover up any obvious damage.

7. Have You Asked Your Local HVAC Professional?

If you’re unsure about the overall state of the HVAC system, it’s wise to get input from certified HVAC professionals. They are skilled at identifying things you might miss, like leaks in the refrigerant, bad electrical connections or damaged ductwork.

A Consultation with Contra Costa Heating & AC Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey

Selecting your first home should be thrilling, and Contra Costa Heating & AC can ensure yours is too. Connect with us at 510-343-9841. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to step into your new home with confidence.