Buying your first home is exciting. You’re likely trying to keep track of a dozen things or more to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your potential new HVAC system is crucial. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and potential source of long-term costs, which is why due diligence should be a top priority 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 setup. And if you want a more in-depth opinion from the experts, consider calling MPC Heating & Cooling. 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 kind of HVAC system the home has. Furnaces tend to last longer compared to air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps boast average life spans that are even longer. Tracking down the make and specific model gives you a clear understanding of how much maintenance it will require.

2. How Long Ago Was the System Installed?

It’s just as smart to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re considering a new home. In general, HVAC systems should survive for around 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you prepare for any needed servicing or considerations if it might break down. Older systems are at a higher risk of problems, so fiscal planning 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 covered by a warranty. If it is, you’ll appreciate how it can help with maintenance expenses. 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 that seem confusing to ensure you understand your coverage and potential out-of-pocket costs.

4. When Was the Last Time It Received Maintenance?

Next, examine the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if such information is available. This service history can reveal if there have been regular problems or how often a tune-up was scheduled. You should at least try to track down a history of key tasks such as changing the air filter, which can indicate it received regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Selecting a system with high 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 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 illustrate 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 heating and cooling expertise, you can still take a moment to check out the HVAC system on your own. Keep an eye out for potential issues that haven’t been mentioned by the seller. This might consist of odd sounds, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts at concealing any visible damage.

7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?

If you’re not quite sure about the overall state of the HVAC system, it’s wise to get a professional opinion from certified HVAC professionals. They can spot things you may not know about, like leaking coolant, wiring issues or damaged ductwork.

A Chat with MPC Heating & Cooling Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Selecting your first home ought to be exciting, and MPC Heating & Cooling can ensure it stays that way. Get in touch with us at 308-832-4321. We can talk about how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.