Shopping for a new home is exciting—but don’t let beautiful countertops or curb appeal distract you from what’s going on behind the walls. Your potential new home’s heating and cooling systems (HVAC) play a huge role in both comfort and long-term costs. If you overlook them during the buying process, you could be in for unexpected repairs, poor efficiency, or a system that doesn’t suit your needs.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or moving into your next place, here are the most important heating and cooling questions to ask before making an offer.
1. What Type of HVAC System Is Installed?
Start with the basics. Is the home heated with a furnace, boiler, heat pump, or electric baseboard? Does it have central air conditioning, a ductless mini-split, or no cooling system at all?
Knowing the system type gives you a sense of how the home is heated and cooled, what maintenance it requires, and whether it’s compatible with future upgrades (like switching to a heat pump).
2. How Old Is the Equipment?
HVAC systems have a lifespan. Furnaces and air conditioners typically last 10–15 years, while heat pumps can last up to 20 with proper care. Ask for installation records and see if any components have been replaced or upgraded.
An older system isn’t necessarily a deal-breaker—but it may mean repair or replacement costs are coming soon.
3. What’s the Home’s Energy Efficiency Like?
Look beyond the appliances themselves—how energy-efficient is the home overall? Ask about:
- Insulation levels in the attic and walls
- Window type (single-pane vs. double-pane)
- Drafts or cold spots
- Monthly energy bills (ask for a 12-month average if possible)
This can give you insight into how hard the HVAC system has to work—and how much it might cost you to run it.
4. Are There Any Known Issues with the Heating or Cooling?
It’s important to ask the seller directly if there are any known problems—strange noises, uneven temperatures, persistent maintenance issues. Even if everything seems fine during a walkthrough, you could uncover problems with a simple question.
Also: look at the vents. Are they dusty or blocked? Is airflow consistent in each room? Trust your senses.
5. Has the HVAC System Been Regularly Maintained?
Well-maintained systems last longer and perform more efficiently. Ask if the homeowner has kept up with routine maintenance like:
- Annual furnace/boiler servicing
- Air filter replacements
- Air conditioner or heat pump inspections
- Duct cleaning (if applicable)
Bonus if they have records from a professional HVAC company.
6. What’s the Heat Source?
Is the home heated with natural gas, electricity, propane, or oil? This makes a big difference in operating costs—especially in British Columbia, where switching from gas to electric heat pumps can qualify for rebates. If the home still runs on oil or propane, you may want to factor in conversion costs down the road.
7. Is the HVAC System Covered Under Warranty?
Some systems (especially newer ones) may still be under manufacturer or extended warranty. This could save you a lot of money on unexpected breakdowns.
Ask for paperwork. If the system was professionally installed, the installer’s name and date should be listed.
8. Is the HVAC System Sized Correctly for the Home?
This is something your home inspector or an HVAC professional should verify. An oversized or undersized system won’t run efficiently and may leave parts of your home too hot or too cold. It can also shorten the equipment’s lifespan.
9. Could I Be Eligible for Rebates If I Upgrade?
If you’re thinking of switching to a heat pump or upgrading to a more energy-efficient system, check out rebate options through:
These programs offer thousands in savings for switching from fossil fuels to high-efficiency electric systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I request the HVAC inspection report during negotiations?
Yes. If the seller had a recent inspection done (for listing purposes or otherwise), you can request a copy to evaluate system condition and repairs made.
Should I run the HVAC system during a walkthrough?
Absolutely. If it’s safe to do so, test both heating and cooling modes (even briefly). Listen for odd noises and check how quickly the home responds.
What’s the cost to replace a system if needed?
Costs vary based on size, fuel type, and efficiency. In BC, a full system replacement (e.g., with a heat pump) can range from $7,000–$15,000 before rebates.
Can I qualify for rebates even if the home has an old furnace?
Yes. In fact, upgrading from an old gas furnace to an eligible electric heat pump often qualifies you for the highest rebate tiers.
Is it better to upgrade HVAC before or after buying?
If the system is failing, you may be able to negotiate a lower purchase price or request a replacement as part of the deal. Otherwise, upgrading post-purchase gives you control over the contractor and equipment.
Our Closing Recommendations
Buying a home is a huge investment—don’t skip the HVAC questions. Asking the right things now can save you major costs, boost efficiency, and ensure your comfort year-round. If you’re unsure what to look for, have a certified HVAC technician inspect the system before closing the deal.
At Pro West Heating & Air Conditioning, we help homeowners throughout the Lower Mainland make smart HVAC decisions—whether you’re buying, selling, or upgrading.
📞
Contact us today if you want a second opinion before making your move.