HVAC maintenance and repair is a methodical process. Skipping ahead rather than using a step-by-step approach can result in energy waste, excess wear and tear on your HVAC equipment, and increased repair bills. Before upgrading your heating system, make sure you’ve marked these three steps off your to-do list.
Perform an Energy Audit
You can purchase the most efficient heating system in the world, but it’ll never perform to its optimal capabilities if your home has air leaks, aging or inefficient ducts, or the insulation doesn’t meet current Energy Star recommendations. A professional energy audit will locate and identify areas where your home wastes energy so you can fix them.
Air leaks are one of the most common energy wasters of all, but an easy one to remedy. Start by inspecting your home’s exterior envelope, paying extra attention to where the siding meets the attic and the foundation. Look around for holes or penetrations formed by electrical and plumbing work and inspect door and window frames. Use caulking to seal any cracks, holes and gaps.
Find a Qualified, Licensed HVAC Professional
The next item before upgrading a heating system is to find a licensed HVAC professional. Confirm their contractor’s license number with your local building department, and check their references. Look technicians who are NATE certified, which demonstrates the company’s commitment to current industry standards and energy efficiency.
Use Accurate Load Calculations
Your contractor should use Manual J software to perform accurate load calculations, which identify the correct size of the system needed for your home. This calculation takes a variety of features into consideration, such as lot orientation, square footage, insulation, window specifications, home occupancy and your households preferred year-round temperatures. An accurately sized heating system will pay off in energy savings, reduced repair bills and improved indoor comfort and air quality.
Before upgrading a heating system in your Iowa Park home, contact James Lane Air Conditioning & Plumbing Co., We’ve provided reliable HVAC service since 1957.
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