If you live in warm weather climate, central air conditioning can keep a home cool and comfortable on those hot summer days. Therefore, if you’re looking for a new home, central air may be high on your wish list. But it can also be a major concern when considering energy and potential maintenance costs. If you had to replace the air conditioning unit a few years after moving in, it could set you back $3,000 or more, depending upon the size of the home.

So how can you be sure a home’s AC system is in good working condition before you buy a new home? While you may not have the tools or training to do a thorough inspection, there are some things you can check for which may clue you in to potential problems.

How old is the air conditioning unit?

Find out how old the air conditioning unit is. The age can help you determine the condition of the unit, its energy efficiency or SEER rating, and if it’s still under warranty. (The SEER or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio measures air conditioning and heat pump cooling efficiency.) AC units built before January 2006 had a minimum allowable SEER rating of 10. Units built after that date must have a rating of 13 or more. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy efficient the unit will be. If the owner doesn’t know the age of the unit, get the serial number from the identification plate on the unit and call the manufacturer.

Are all the rooms being cooled adequately?

As you walk around the house, check to see if certain rooms are hotter or colder than others. All of the rooms should have a consistent temperature. If not, then this may indicate a problem with the AC unit, leaking ducts or inadequate insulation.

Is there moisture around the ducts or indoor unit?

Condensation around the ducts or a leaking indoor unit can cause mold to form which affects the indoor air quality of the home. Mold can also lead to illnesses.

Is the air conditioner noisy?

While an outdoor compressor can make a lot of noise, too much noise may indicate a potential problem. Most new units are quieter. So if you hear any clanging or screeching sounds, a part may be coming loose.

Does the home have an odd odor?

If the AC unit appears to be blowing strange- or stale-smelling air, the air filter may need to be replaced or the unit may have a refrigerant leak.

If you’re concerned the home may have a potential AC problem, have a professional air conditioning contractor check out the unit. They can determine the age of the system, its capacity, its condition and expected life, and whether any repairs are needed. The inspection cost is well worth the potential future expense of unit repairs or replacement.

If a problem is detected, talk to your real estate agent about what to do next. You can either ask the seller to repair or replace the unit; renegotiate the sales price based upon repair/replacement costs you would need to make; or cancel the contract. But do something, otherwise you may find yourself sweating it out in your new home at a later date.

In addition to knowing all the facts about a home’s AC unit, you also need to know all the facts and options available to you regarding the best mortgage solution for your needs. Contact a trusted mortgage broker to help you make the right decision.