Purchasing your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re probably juggling numerous details about 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 source of potential long-term costs, so being thorough helps all first-time homebuyers.

In the following guide, we’ll share 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 Contra Costa Heating & AC. Our seasoned technicians can weigh in on your options with industry insights that are second to none.

1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?

Start by determining what specific HVAC system the home features. Furnaces tend to last longer than air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC systems like heat pumps can offer average life spans that are impressively long. Getting the details on the make and specific model provides a much better sense of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.

2. What Is the Current System’s Age?

It also helps to learn how old the HVAC system is when you're considering a new home. On average, 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 break down. 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 Active?

Be sure to check the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, this can lighten the load for maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Review any terms that aren’t familiar to ensure you understand your coverage and the likelihood of out-of-pocket costs.

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

Take a close look at the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if this kind of history is available. This service history can demonstrate if there have been regular problems or how much upkeep was provided. Ask about records for key tasks like filter changes, which is a positive sign indicating regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. Do You Know Its Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Finding a home that features an HVAC system with great energy efficiency can lead to more manageable utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Try and find the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning along with the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. Higher SEER ratings mean better cooling across the entire season, while high AFUE ratings illustrate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

6. Have You Noticed Signs of Problems During Your Inspection?

Even if you don’t have experience in HVAC systems, you can still take a moment to examine the HVAC system on your own. Keep an eye out for any concerning items that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This can mean bizarre noises, stubborn patches of the house that are too hot or cold and attempts at concealing any serious damage.

7. Is an Experienced HVAC Technician Available to Help?

If you're still hesitant to make an offer because of the overall state of the HVAC system, it's wise to get an assessment and recommendation from certified HVAC technicians. They can spot things you might not, like refrigerant leaks, wiring issues or inefficient ductwork.

A Call with Contra Costa Heating & AC Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey

Selecting your first home should be thrilling, and Contra Costa Heating & AC can ensure that doesn’t change. Connect with us at 510-343-9841. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.