Your home is your sanctuary, and one of the keys to making it feel like your own personal palace is to maintain the perfect room temperature—and this can be done with an HVAC system.
HVAC systems help keep your home cool during the summer and toasty when the winter months come along. Now, if your home doesn’t have an HVAC system or your current HVAC system is too old to work to its full potential, you might need to consider installing a new one.
Installing an HVAC system isn’t easy, even when you call a professional to help you. Here are some tips for residential HVAC installation and how you can maintain your HVAC system in the long run.
Planning Makes Perfect
Here are a few tips for residential HVAC installation planning:
1. Know Your Needs
Before jumping into particular HVAC models, take a step back to analyze the needs of your home. Take into account factors like square footage, insulation levels as well as the number of occupants. Warmer climates may require air conditioners, whereas colder ones may find a high-performance furnace more useful. Knowing what you want to do will help you select the right size and features of the HVAC system.
2. Research, Research, Research
Since there are many HVAC systems on the market, doing your research is very important. Take time to explore various brands, their position in the market and the length of their warranty. Also, take time to read online reviews and pay attention to the energy efficiency ratings; these will surely influence your utility bills in the future. Search for certifications like ENERGY STAR® for heating and cooling equipment, which indicate higher efficiency.
Additionally, take into account the variable speed drives for air handlers and furnaces that can adjust their speed to match your needs and save energy.
3. Get Multiple Estimates
Don’t be in a hurry to accept the first quote you get. Get quotes from several licensed, bonded, and insured HVAC service providers. When you have your first meeting with them, share with them your needs and ask questions about their recommended models and the way they install them. Also, make sure to ask them if financing is available if possible since a new HVAC system can put a dent in your wallet.
4. Factor in the Permit Process
Most HVAC installations require permits from the local building department. Look up in advance the exact permits you need and verify with the HVAC installer if they will help you go through the permit procedure. Knowing the details of the permitting process should help you to avoid installation schedule delays.
5. Prepare the Installation Area
Make sure that the area where the new unit will be installed is cleared, both indoors and outdoors. Also, all the furniture, plants, or any objects that would block the technician’s way should be removed. Convenient access for the installation team will shorten the time required for the installation. If possible, assign a parking place to the service vehicle so that there will be no disruptions.
Optimizing Your Installation Day
So now your HVAC installers are coming over to install your new system. The next set of tips for residential HVAC installation will cover what you need to do to get the installation done right:
1. Schedule for Off-Peak Seasons
HVAC companies are generally busier during peak summer and winter months. Booking your installation during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) can mean a faster job at a more reasonable price.
2. Protect Your Belongings
Professional contractors do their best to avoid damage, but covering the furniture or electronics near the work site with drop cloths or dust sheets is always a good idea. Also, pick up some old rugs for the floors as well to combat muddy footprints on tile or hardwood floors.
3. Be Present (If Possible)
While the technicians are doing their magic, you might want to be available to help them with any questions. These could be related to existing ductwork, electrical access points, or the position of a thermostat that you prefer. Also, make sure to take notes when they explain something to you, you’ll find it much easier to refer to the given information when needed.
4. Understand the System Operation
Before they leave, make sure that they can teach you the workings of your new HVAC system. This encompasses advising on the way to set the thermostat, change air filters, and any special maintenance requirements. Ask the HVAC technician about proper cleaning schedules for air filters and outdoor units.
Getting the Finest Performance from Your HVAC System
Even the highest quality of the HVAC system won’t perform well in the long run if it doesn’t get proper maintenance. Here are key practices to keep your system running smoothly and efficiently for years to come:
1. Regular Air Filter Replacement
This probably is the most significant part of HVAC maintenance. Dirty air filters hinder airflow, causing the system to operate beyond its designed capacity and wasting energy. Replace the filters based on the manufacturer’s instructions, which is typically every 1-3 months during high-usage seasons.
2. Schedule Professional Maintenance
A yearly professional servicing is highly recommended. An experienced professional will inspect and clean the main components, as well as oil the parts so that they function at peak performance and any possible problems will be identified before they get worse and turn into a major repair.
3. Keep the Outdoor Unit Clear
The outdoor unit, which discharges heat, needs to have adequate airflow. Get rid of any leaves, litter, or plants that might prevent the unit from functioning properly. Also, maintain a clearance of at least two feet around the unit on all four sides.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why isn’t my HVAC cooling my home properly?
This can happen due to several reasons, including dirty filters, a malfunctioning thermostat or low refrigerant levels.
2. Is a bigger HVAC system better?
Not always. If your HVAC system is too big, it may not cool or heat your home properly and it may experience rapid on-and-off cycles.
3. How long will my HVAC last?
A well-maintained HVAC can last for 15 to 20 years.
There you have it, tips for residential HVAC installation!
HVAC installation requires a lot of planning and a good residential HVAC installer. Not all HVAC installation services are the same, so make sure to look for the best of the best to get the best out of your HVAC system and more tips for residential HVAC installation today!
