Purchasing 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 understanding your potential new HVAC system is vital. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and source of potential long-term costs, illustrating why a detailed inspection is important for 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 system. And if you want a more in-depth opinion from the experts, feel free to call Bain Heating & Air Conditioning. 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 has. Furnaces tend to last longer than air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps boast average life spans longer than ever. Knowing the make and specific model ensures you have a much better sense of how much maintenance it will require.

2. How Old Is the Current HVAC System?

It’s just as smart to learn how old the HVAC system is when you're looking at a potential new home. On average, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you anticipate future maintenance needs or when 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. Does the System Have a Warranty?

Don’t forget to look into whether the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, this can lighten the load for maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Don’t forget to look into any terms that seem confusing to make sure you fully understand your coverage and the likelihood of out-of-pocket costs.

4. Does the System Have a Documented Maintenance History?

Next, examine the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if the records are accessible. This kind of information can demonstrate if the repair needs are high or how often maintenance is performed. Ask about records for key tasks such as changing the air filter, which can indicate it received regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. Do You Know Its Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Selecting a system with high energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to lower utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Check out 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 strong AFUE ratings mean the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

6. Have You Noticed Signs of Problems After Your Own Inspection?

Even without experience in HVAC systems, you can still take a moment to inspect the HVAC system on your own. Look for any concerning items that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This might consist of odd sounds, unequal airflow and attempts to hide any serious damage.

7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?

If you're not quite sure about the condition of the HVAC system, it's beneficial to get input from trained HVAC technicians. They are skilled at identifying things you might not, including refrigerant leaks, bad electrical connections or inefficient ductwork.

A Chat with Bain Heating & Air Conditioning Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Finding your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and Bain Heating & Air Conditioning will do everything possible to ensure yours is too. Reach out with us at 256-270-1196. We can discuss how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.