Buying a New HVAC System: Questions to ask, things to consider

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Sep 24, 2014, 05:20 ET

MILWAUKEE, Sept. 24, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Advances in heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) equipment that offers higher efficiencies, increased comfort and improved indoor air quality make a new system an attractive alternative to an aging, inefficient system, especially one that is experiencing problems. However, choosing the system that best meets your heating and cooling needs is not always easy. To refine your search and help you make an informed decision, the experts at the Luxaire^® brand of Johnson Controls offer some helpful advice.

Luxaire(R) brand of Johnson Controls (PRNewsFoto/Johnson Controls) (PRNewsFoto/Johnson Controls)

First, find a contractor you can trust – preferably one who is North American Technician Excellence (NATE) certified and a member of state and national contractor associations. Then, ask the following questions:

Does the contractor do the work, or does he/she subcontract it to someone else?
Is the contractor adequately insured?
What is the contractor's schedule for getting the work done?
Will other projects affect the contractor's ability to complete your job on time?
Does the contractor offer a maintenance service agreement?
Can the contractor provide any references from prior customers?
Will the contractor conduct a load calculation to determine the proper size of equipment for your home?

Next, determine what kind of equipment you need by considering these questions:

What equipment does the contractor recommend and why?
What is the efficiency rating of the equipment? Is this enough/too much for the size of your home? The efficiency of a cooling system is expressed as a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) number. Heat pump efficiency is expressed by a Heating Season Performance Factor (HSPF), and the efficiency of a furnace is expressed as the Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE).
Where will the equipment be located? Will the recommended equipment fit here?
Is your ductwork properly sealed, insulated and sized for the new equipment?

Finally, consider the financial questions that come with a purchase this significant:

How much does the new system cost, including installation?
Does the contractor or manufacturer offer any warranties on the equipment you are purchasing? If so, what does the warranty cover?
Are any rebates available?
Does the contractor offer any financing options?
Did you consider the cost of operating the system as well as the initial cost?

Your heating and cooling system is one of the more expensive purchases you will ever make. That's why it's important to ask questions and apply the answers to make the right decision – one that meets your comfort needs efficiently and affordably.

For additional help as you search for a new HVAC system, visit www.luxaire.com.

Luxaire^® products from Johnson Controls include high-performance residential central air conditioners, heat pumps, furnaces and accessories and light-commercial, packaged heating and cooling systems marketed through a network of distributors and delivered to home- and building-owners through independent Luxaire heating and air conditioning contractors. For more information about Luxaire, visit www.luxaire.com.

Johnson Controls

Johnson Controls is a global diversified technology and industrial leader serving customers in more than 150 countries. Our 170,000 employees create quality products, services and solutions to optimize energy and operational efficiencies of buildings; lead-acid automotive batteries and advanced batteries for hybrid and electric vehicles; and interior systems for automobiles. Our commitment to sustainability dates back to our roots in 1885, with the invention of the first electric room thermostat. Through our growth strategies and by increasing market share we are committed to delivering value to shareholders and making our customers successful. In 2014, Corporate Responsibility Magazine recognized Johnson Controls as the #12 company in its annual "100 Best Corporate Citizens" list. For additional information, please visit http://www.johnsoncontrols.com or follow @johnsoncontrols on Twitter.

Please Direct Reader Inquiries to:
Steve Hoffins
Director of Marketing – Unitary Products
Johnson Controls
507 E. Michigan St.
Milwaukee, WI 53202