How to Make the Most of Your Heating and Cooling System Investment
A new heating and cooling system is a big investment, so you need to make sure you’re getting your money’s worth. Consider the following tips for installing a new air conditioner, furnace or both in your Sacramento home.
Invest in quality.
As with any big investment, you shouldn’t go with the cheapest option available when installing a new HVAC system. Even if you can’t afford the most expensive system out there, you should at least purchase a good mid-grade one. If you install the cheapest system you can find, you may end up paying more in the long run—especially if it breaks down prematurely.
This emphasis on quality also applies when looking at HVAC companies to hire. Rather than hiring the cheapest company you can find to install your new air conditioner or furnace, look for one that has a reputation for quality workmanship and great customer service.
Take advantage of the latest technology.
Many of today’s HVAC systems incorporate sophisticated technology that maximizes comfort and energy efficiency. Rather than choosing a basic one-stage furnace, consider investing in a two-stage or variable-speed furnace, which will provide superior performance and give you more control over things like energy usage. Additionally, alternative HVAC products like ductless mini-split systems and multi-zone systems can be good options, especially if you have a split-level home or need to address challenging airflow dynamics.
Make sure your system is properly sized.
Bigger isn’t always better, and that’s certainly the case for heating and cooling systems. Proper sizing is one of the most important factors for system installation, and if it’s overlooked, there can be major consequences for system performance. For example, an improperly sized system can lead to issues like short-cycling, where the unit continually turns on and off in an attempt to regulate constant fluctuations in temperature. To avoid this, have your HVAC contractor perform a load calculation to make sure your system is correctly sized for your home’s needs.
Look beyond the unit itself.
You can buy the most efficient heating and cooling system in the world, but if you neglect other aspects related to home energy efficiency, you won’t get the performance you’re looking for. For instance, leaky windows and poor insulation can offset any gains you get from a new system. The same goes for ductwork—it doesn’t make sense to install top-shelf HVAC equipment if your air ducts are full of holes.
Get a good warranty.
When it comes to something as expensive as a new heating and cooling system, the value of a strong warranty can’t be overstated. Even if that means hiring a more expensive company with manufacturer certifications, the extra assurance will be well worth the cost.
Read moreRead less