If you’ve just bought a new home, you might be tasked with updating the existing furnace or air conditioning unit. An HVAC contractor is your most reliable resource, as they have the knowledge to help first-time buyers find the perfect systems for their spaces. To find the right company and equipment to keep your family comfortable, ponder the questions below.

3 Questions Before Buying an HVAC System

Who should I hire?

The HVAC contractor you hire should have a valid license. This means all work they perform adheres to state and industry standards. With continued education, they are familiar with current trends to help find an efficient system to cut down on heating and cooling costs. The HVAC contractor should also be insured with coverage that pays for the repair or replacement of any property damaged while they work. Their number of years in business matters, too. With experience, contractors can foresee any issues and solve problems quickly.

What is the system’s efficiency rating?

When researching units online, you’ll see efficiency ratings in the product descriptions. Although they come with higher price tags, look for systems with high ratings. In the case of an AC unit, a high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) means the system uses less energy to cool interiors throughout the season. Furnace efficiency is measured by Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE), which refers to how much fuel ends up as exhaust and how much goes toward home heating.

What do product warranties cover?

Making your new investment last is a priority. Furnaces, for example, last between 18 and 20 years. Routine care can extend equipment life to 25 to 30 years. That’s why you should choose a system with warranty coverage from the HVAC contractor or manufacturer; the agreement should cover the cost of future repairs. Annual professional maintenance is generally required to keep warranty coverage.

For help choosing your first system, contact the HVAC contractors at Wm. Price Heating & Cooling in Girard, OH. Since 1937, these licensed, insured Carrier® Factory Authorized Dealers have been providing homeowners throughout the Mahoning Valley area with high-quality air conditioners and furnaces. Save on AC and heating installation, maintenance, and repairs by redeeming the special offers online, and call (330) 545-3722 to schedule an appointment. Meet new team members on Facebook.