Completing the search for your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re likely 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 essential. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and potential source of long-term costs, illustrating why a detailed inspection helps all first-time homebuyers.

In this guide, we’ll outline 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 experts, consider calling Woody's Sudden Service. Our experienced team can weigh in on your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

1. What Type of HVAC System Is It?

Start by clarifying what specific HVAC system the home features. Furnaces tend to last longer compared to air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC systems like heat pumps can offer average life spans that are impressively long. Tracking down the make and specific model gives you a much better sense of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.

2. How Long Ago Was the System Installed?

Another good idea is to find out how old the HVAC system is when you’re looking at a new home. For the most part, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Knowing when it was installed helps you anticipate future maintenance needs or considerations if it might shut down for good. Older systems are more prone to problems, so planning ahead of time 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, this can lighten the load for maintenance costs. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Don’t forget to look into any terms you don’t recognize to make sure you fully understand your coverage and potential out-of-pocket costs.

4. Has the System Ever Been Professionally Serviced or Maintained?

Don’t forget to check the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if this kind of history is accessible. 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 such as changing the air filter, which is a positive sign indicating regularly scheduled tune-ups.

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

Purchasing a home with a heating and cooling system with strong energy efficiency can lead to smaller utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Look for 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 more effectively burned for useable heat.

6. Did You See Any Problems During Your Inspection?

Even without the know-how of an HVAC technician, you should still check out the HVAC system yourself. Watch closely for any concerning items that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This can mean bizarre 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 current state of the HVAC system, it’s beneficial to get input from certified HVAC professionals. They are skilled at identifying things you might not, like leaks in the refrigerant, wiring issues or flawed ductwork.

A Call with Woody's Sudden Service Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Selecting your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and Woody's Sudden Service will do everything possible to ensure that doesn’t change. Connect with us at 703-278-2036. 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.