Buying your first home is thrilling. You’re likely juggling numerous details to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your potential new HVAC system is vital. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and potential source of long-term costs, which is why due diligence is important for first-time homebuyers.

In the following 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 more in-depth opinion from the pros, don’t hesitate to contact Bishop Heating & Air Conditioning. Our staff can weigh in on your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

1. What Type of HVAC System Is It?

Start by identifying what specific HVAC system the home features. Furnaces generally last longer than air conditioners, and some of the latest types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps boast average life spans that are impressively long. Knowing the make and specific model provides a much better sense of how much routine maintenance it might need.

2. What Is the Current System’s Age?

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. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you prepare for any needed servicing or considerations if it might shut down for good. Older systems are at a higher risk of problems, so budgeting for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.

3. What Does the Warranty Cover?

Don’t forget to look into whether the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, this can help with maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Make sure you go over 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?

Next, examine the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if this kind of history is accessible. This kind of information can reveal if there have been regular problems or how often a tune-up was scheduled. Inquire about key tasks like filter changes, which is a positive sign indicating regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Purchasing a home with a heating and cooling system with strong energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to more manageable utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Look for the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning along with the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. High SEER ratings mean more efficient cooling throughout the season, while higher AFUE ratings indicate that the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.

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

Even if you don’t have the know-how of an HVAC technician, you can still take a moment to examine the HVAC system on your own. Keep an eye out for potential issues that might have been overlooked. This includes strange noises, unequal airflow and attempts to cover up any obvious damage.

7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?

If you’re unsure about the condition of the HVAC system, it’s never a bad idea to get input from certified HVAC technicians. They will be much more likely to catch things you might miss, such as leaks in the refrigerant, wiring issues or flawed ductwork.

A Chat with Bishop Heating & Air Conditioning Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey

Selecting your first home should be thrilling, and Bishop Heating & Air Conditioning wants to ensure yours is too. Get in touch with us at 760-784-9034. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to step into your new home with confidence.