Purchasing your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re likely juggling numerous details to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that understanding your potential new HVAC system is essential. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and potential source of long-term costs, illustrating why a detailed inspection should be a top priority 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 deeper opinion from the experts, don't hesitate to contact Myers Furnace Company. Our staff can share details about your options with industry insights that are second to none.

1. What Type of HVAC System Is It?

Start by determining what type of HVAC system the home features. Furnaces generally last longer than air conditioners, and some of the latest types of HVAC systems like heat pumps boast average life spans longer than ever. Tracking down the make and specific model ensures you have a much better sense of how much routine maintenance it might need.

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 new home. For the most part, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Knowing when it was installed helps you plan for possible repair needs or when 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, this can assist with maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties often cover parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Review any terms you don’t recognize to make sure you fully understand your coverage and potential out-of-pocket costs.

4. Does the System Have a Documented Maintenance History?

Don't forget to check the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if the records are accessible. This kind of information can reveal if the system constantly broke down or how often maintenance is performed. You should at least try to track down a history of key tasks like filter changes, which is a positive sign indicating regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Selecting a system with strong energy efficiency means lower utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Look for the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning as well as the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the cooling over the whole season, while strong AFUE ratings mean the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

6. Did You See Any Problems After Completing an Informal Inspection?

Even without experience in HVAC systems, you can still take a moment to inspect the HVAC system yourself. Watch closely for signs of problems that haven't been mentioned by the seller. This includes strange noises, unequal airflow and attempts to cover up any visible damage.

7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?

If you're still hesitant to make an offer because of the condition of the HVAC system, it's wise to get an assessment and recommendation from experienced HVAC technicians. They will be much more likely to catch things you might not, such as leaking coolant, damage to the wiring or inefficient ductwork.

A Chat with Myers Furnace Company Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Choosing your first home ought to be exciting, and Myers Furnace Company can ensure that doesn’t change. Connect with us at 816-249-1619. 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.