Almost half of the power Americans use in their homes comes from temperature control. We’ve been experimenting with ways to regulate temperature since before we left caves. However, the idea of HVAC systems didn’t start taking shape until the 19th century. The HVAC systems we know today descended from an invention in the early 1900s that used coils to heat and cool air.

Today, HVAC systems are standard in most homes. Like many modern amenities, HVAC systems require maintenance. You can learn when and how to maintain your system by calling an HVAC Inspector. You can help keep the system at its best by asking the right questions. We’ll discuss some of those questions here.

1. What Manufacturers Do You Trust?

We all have companies that we trust. Perhaps we had a good experience with them or just don’t recall anything of theirs breaking down. HVAC inspectors have them, too.

Chances are, they’re willing to tell you what HVAC units seem to work the best for the longest length of time. If you have specific concerns, such as cost, feel free to ask about them, as well. The important thing to remember is that this is an inspector. They’re here to tell you how your system is working, not sell you a new one.

2. What Does an Inspection Include?

Failing to cover everything during an inspection and then charging extra for what you missed is the oldest trick in the book. This is why you need to ask the inspector what’s on their inspection checklist.

If you want a company that you know you can trust, turn to us at Sewell Electric and HVAC. We list our standards for inspection on our site, so you know what to expect.

3. Should I Repair or Upgrade My System?

The entire point of an inspection is to determine if your HVAC system is working as efficiently as it should. Every system breaks down at some point, and for HVAC systems, it depends on what kind you have. Furnaces and boilers can last up to twenty years or more, while heat pumps will last 15 years.

Some of the most common problems with HVAC system efficiency are the result of neglect. Many HVAC repairs and upgrades are a matter of switching out old parts.

Perhaps the vents are having issues. A broken vent can ruin a dryer. Imagine what it can do to your home.

4. How Often Should I Schedule Inspections?

It’s impossible to tell when issues will occur in an HVAC system, so it’s important to keep an eye on them. While exceptions do exist, most HVAC professionals will recommend annual inspections. This keeps you informed of how your system is doing. The inspector might give you HVAC maintenance tips on how to deal with small problems before they escalate.

Questions to Ask an HVAC Inspector

Knowing what to ask an HVAC inspector is crucial during an inspection. We’ve discussed some of the things to bring up here, but there’s always more to learn. You can learn more about HVAC systems on our site.

If you’re looking for HVAC repair, you’ve come to the right place. At Sewell Electric and HVAC, we’ve been in business since 1945. That’s 79 years of experience, and we’re still going strong. Read more about us if you’re not convinced.