Is it time for a new home comfort system?

Replacing your home’s HVAC system may seem like a daunting task, but it’s easy if you know what features to look for. We’ve compiled the ultimate “things to consider” checklist to help you take the plunge:

Some of your rooms are too hot or cold

Duct problems, inadequate air sealing or insulation could be the cause. No matter how efficient your heating and cooling system is, if your home is not properly sealed and insulated against air leakage, you will not be as comfortable and your system will have to work harder.

Your home has humidity problems and/or excessive dust

Poorly operating or improperly sized equipment could be to blame. Leaky ductwork can also cause these problems, so having it sealed may be a solution. Monthly maintenance of your heating and cooling equipment’s filters may also help.

Your cooling system is noisy

Your duct system could be improperly sized or there may be a problem with the indoor coil of your cooling equipment.

Your equipment needs frequent repairs and your energy bills are going up

In addition to the rise in energy costs, the age and condition of your heating and cooling equipment may have caused it to become less efficient.

Your air conditioner or heat pump is more than 12 years old

Consider replacing it with newer, more efficient equipment. And, remember, high efficiency levels begin with ENERGY STAR.

Your furnace or boiler is more than 15 years old

Consider replacing it with ENERGY STAR® qualified equipment. ENERGY STAR has set high efficiency guidelines for both types of heating systems.

You leave your thermostat set at one constant temperature

You could be missing a great energy-saving opportunity. A programmable thermostat adjusts your home’s temperature at times when you’re regularly away or sleeping.

Source: “A Guide to Energy-Efficient Heating and Cooling,” U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

7 things to look for in a home comfort system

When it’s time to replace your home comfort system, it’s important to consider what a newer system can offer. Here are seven items to consider when purchasing an HVAC system:

1. Reliability

Chances are, your heating and cooling system is the most expensive equipment you will purchase for your home. That’s why it’s important to choose proven products from a reputable manufacturer.

2. Efficiency

A new ENERGY STAR®-labeled system, when properly sized and installed, can save you up to 30% on your annual heating and cooling costs.* Plus, it may qualify you for utility rebates** in certain regions. To ensure your system is installed properly, choose an air cleaner to match your furnace or air handler. That way, you can have peace of mind knowing your system is working to capture small contaminants in every room of your home.

3. Quiet operation

The sound of a standard furnace can be as loud as 100 decibels, comparable to the sound of a kitchen garbage disposal! Air conditioners can produce sounds as high as 80 decibels. Look for technologies and features that help keep operating sound at a comfortable level.

4. Consistent temperatures

With a typical furnace or single-speed air conditioner, indoor temperature can vary as much as seven degrees from the thermostat setting. A properly installed programmable thermostat, though the use of pre-programmed settings, can save you about $180 every year in energy costs. Variable speed and/or two-stage systems give you the assurance of precise temperature control*.

5. Balanced humidity

To maintain proper moisture levels in your home, choose a thermostat that controls both temperature and humidity. You might also consider a variable speed and/or two-stage comfort system and dehumidifier.

6. Proper airflow

A typical furnace motor runs at one speed and circulates a constant volume of air, so it responds to changing comfort demands by repeatedly cycling on and off. This frequent cycling increases air stratification and stagnation. For optimal air circulation, choose a variable speed model.

7. Healthy air

One of the best ways to combat indoor pollution is to attach an air cleaner to your furnace or air handler. That way, you can have peace of mind knowing your system is working to capture small contaminants in every room of your home.

*Source: www.energystar.gov
**Check with RG&E about rebates in our area.