Purchasing your first home is exciting. You’re likely juggling numerous details to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that understanding your potential new HVAC system is crucial. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant investment and source of potential long-term costs, which is why due diligence helps all first-time homebuyers.

In this guide, we’ll share seven tips for learning everything you can about a home’s heating and cooling setup. And if you want a more in-depth opinion from the experts, feel free to call Brandywine Heating & Air. Our seasoned technicians can share details about your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?

Start by identifying what kind of HVAC system the home features. Furnaces tend to last longer than air conditioners, and some of the latest types of HVAC systems like heat pumps feature average life spans longer than ever. Tracking down the make and specific model ensures you have a clear idea of how much routine maintenance it might need.

2. How Long Ago Was the System Installed?

It’s just as smart to learn how old the HVAC system is when you're looking at a new home. On average, HVAC systems should survive for around 10-12 years. Knowing when it was installed helps you prepare for any needed servicing or considerations if it might break down. Older systems may be more vulnerable to problems, so planning ahead of time for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.

3. Is the Warranty Active?

Check if the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, this can help with maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Don’t forget to look into 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?

Don't forget to check the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if that information is available. This service history can demonstrate if the system constantly broke down or how often maintenance is performed. You should at least try to track down a history of key tasks like filter changes, which can indicate it received regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Finding a home that features an HVAC system with high energy efficiency means smaller utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Try and find the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning and 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 efficiently converted into useable heat.

6. Did You See Any Problems After Your Own Inspection?

Even if you don’t have the know-how of an HVAC technician, you should still check out the HVAC system on your own. Look for signs of problems that haven't been mentioned by the seller. This includes strange noises, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts to cover up any serious damage.

7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?

If you're not quite sure about the current state of the HVAC system, it's wise to get a professional opinion from trained HVAC professionals. They can spot things you might not, such as leaks in the refrigerant, bad electrical connections or flawed ductwork.

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

Finding your first home should be thrilling, and Brandywine Heating & Air will do everything possible to ensure yours is too. Get in touch with us at 302-261-3596. We can discuss how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.