Buying your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re likely trying to keep track of a dozen things or more to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that understanding your future HVAC system is vital. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant investment and potential source of long-term costs, so being thorough helps all first-time homebuyers.

In the following guide, we’ll share seven tips for learning everything you can about a home’s heating and cooling system. And if you want a more in-depth opinion from the pros, feel free to call MPC Heating & Cooling. Our staff can help you compare your options with industry insights that are second to none.

1. What Type of HVAC System Is It?

Start by identifying what specific HVAC system the home features. Furnaces tend to last longer than air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps feature average life spans that are impressively long. Tracking down the make and specific model ensures you have a clear idea 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 looking at a potential new home. On average, HVAC systems tend to run for about 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you plan for possible repair needs or when it might eventually stop working. 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. Is the Warranty Still in Effect?

Check if the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, you’ll appreciate how it can assist with maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties often cover 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 any possible 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 available. This kind of information can demonstrate if there have been regular problems or how often maintenance is performed. Inquire about 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?

Purchasing a home with a heating and cooling system with strong energy efficiency can lead to more manageable 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. Higher SEER ratings mean better cooling across the entire season, while strong AFUE ratings illustrate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

6. Can You Spot Trouble After Completing an Informal Inspection?

Even if you don’t have heating and cooling expertise, it’s still a good idea to inspect the HVAC system on your own. Keep an eye out for signs of problems that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This might consist of odd sounds, stubborn patches of the house that are too hot or cold and attempts to cover up any obvious damage.

7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?

If you’re unsure about the overall state of the HVAC system, it’s never a bad idea to get a professional opinion from trained HVAC technicians. They are skilled at identifying things you might not, such as refrigerant leaks, wiring issues or inefficient ductwork.

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

Selecting your first home ought to be exciting, and MPC Heating & Cooling will do everything possible to ensure that doesn’t change. Reach out with us at 308-832-4321. We can discuss how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.