Congratulations on Your New Home! What Do You Know About Your HVAC System?

A Little Due Diligence Now Can Save You a Lot of Money Later

Buying a new home is exciting, and moving into your new abode can be even more so. What colors to paint the walls? Hardwood or carpeting? And what’s going on with the wallpaper in the bathroom? With so much to decide upon, not to mention unpack, paying any attention at all to your HVAC system may seem a little unreasonable at the moment. Nevertheless, researching a few important facts about your heating and air conditioning will save you time, money and headaches later. Don’t ignore the information you need to know that’s incorporated into your home inspection or appraisal report. Get the scoop, and you’ll be ready to troubleshoot any problems, as well as to make cost effective preparations for future renovations.

First, Get the Deets About Your HVAC System

Do you know whether you have central air or ductless mini splits? Heat pump? Boiler? What fuel does your HVAC system use? How old is your system? When was the last time it was serviced? Even more importantly, do you know what its seasonal energy efficiency ratio (also known as a SEER score) is? Remember, the older the system, the less likely it is to have incorporated newer, energy saving technology. An older system may result in more expensive heating and cooling costs than newer, more efficient HVAC equipment would. While you may not be prepared to immediately replace your heating and air conditioning system, at least you’ll know before turning up the heat or turning down the thermostat that your bills may be higher. Caution is the order of the day!

Let’s Talk About Warranties

Do you have an existing warranty for your heating or air conditioning system? If so, make sure you’re aware of exactly what you need to do to maintain it. Certain repairs or maintenance tasks may void it entirely, so it’s important to fully understand the terms before having to take action.

How About a New Air Filter?

Just as some new homeowners insist on changing certain small household fixtures upon taking possession of a new home, you might well consider changing your HVAC system’s air filter just as a matter of course when moving in. After all, a new filter is very inexpensive, easily acquired at your neighborhood hardware store or online. Furthermore, a new, clean filter will improve the heating and cooling capabilities of your HVAC system automatically. As a side note, you’ll also rid the house of previous owner cooties! Seriously, if you’re a pet owner or someone concerned about allergens and other environmental irritants, it never hurts to change your filter. Manufacturers recommend doing so at least once every six months, but some folks prefer to do so as often as once every 1-3 months.

Check Out Your Landscaping

As beautiful as your new yard may be, be sure to take a moment to ensure your outside unit remains clear of all foliage, branches and yard debris. This outdoor equipment is probably the most expensive part of your HVAC system, so you want to make sure it is not only safe from falling branches, but other external hazards as well.

Enjoy your new home.

If you have questions about your heating or air conditioning equipment, don’t hesitate to call the friendly HVAC consultants at Air-Tro. Since 1969, we’ve been helping Southern California families get comfortable. Reach us at (626) 357-3535.