Completing the search for your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re probably juggling a dozen things or more to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your future HVAC system is essential. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and potential source of long-term costs, so being thorough 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 deeper opinion from the pros, consider calling Ohler & Holzhauer Inc.. Our staff can weigh in on your options with industry insights that are second to none.

1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?

Start by clarifying what type of HVAC system the home includes. Furnaces generally last longer than air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC products like heat pumps boast average life spans that are impressively long. Getting the details on the make and specific model ensures you have a clear idea of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.

2. How Old Is the Current HVAC System?

It’s just as smart to learn how old the HVAC system is when you're looking at a new home. For the most part, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you plan for possible repair needs or when it might shut down for good. Older systems may be more vulnerable to problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.

3. Is the Warranty Still in Effect?

Don’t forget to look into whether the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, that's great news because it can lower maintenance costs. HVAC warranties often cover parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Don’t forget to look into any terms that seem confusing 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 the records are available. This service history can reveal 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 means it enjoyed more regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. Do You Know Its Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Finding a home that features an HVAC system with high energy efficiency means smaller utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Check out 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 mean the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

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

Even without experience in HVAC systems, you can still take a moment to inspect the HVAC system yourself. Watch closely for any concerning items that might have been overlooked. This includes strange noises, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts to hide any visible damage.

7. Have You Asked Your Local HVAC Professional?

If you're not quite sure about the current state of the HVAC system, it's never a bad idea to get input from certified HVAC technicians. They can spot things you might miss, like refrigerant leaks, damage to the wiring or flawed ductwork.

A Call with Ohler & Holzhauer Inc. Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey

Finding your first home ought to be exciting, and Ohler & Holzhauer Inc. wants to ensure it stays that way. Connect with us at 419-465-8722. We can talk about how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.