Complicated home systems such as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning or HVAC calls for expertise and advanced training. While choosing a good unit is essential, it’s more important to ensure that a licensed and certified professional conducts the installation and repair work. An HVAC system may not perform as efficiently when not installed properly. If you’re looking for an HVAC professional, you can visit eandvenergy.com.
Whether you’re planning to install your first HVAC system at home or looking for someone to repair your current equipment, here are some questions to ask an HVAC company in Ithaca NY:
1. Do you recommend a packaged or split type system?
The split HVAC system is very common, which comes in two units: one that stays inside the home while the other one is placed outside. These units work together using coolant lines. On the other hand, a packaged HVAC system comes in a single unit so it’s considerably space-saving.
You may benefit from either packaged or split-type system depending on your home’s size and style so it’s best to discuss which options will work with an HVAC professional.
2. What is the best size of an air conditioner for my home?
Many people think that bigger air conditioners are more energy-efficient. The truth is that an HVAC equipment’s capacity should be based on your home’s size. If the unit is too big, there is a chance that your home will experience high humidity. If it’s too small, it can run continuously without reaching a comfortable temperature, which can hurt your energy bills. Before buying, ensure that you know the perfect size for your home.
3. What kind of filters are compatible with my system?
Today, there is a confusing number of air filter options to choose from. You can choose from semi-permanent, permanent, and disposable varieties. Permanent and semi-permanent ones need regular cleaning, while disposable filters need to be replaced every few months. Whatever HVAC system you use, a qualified technician should tell you about the best filters to use for the unit.
4. How often should the air filters be changed?
Each HVAC system and air filter is different, so maintenance should vary. You can also refer to the manufacturer’s manual for the recommended filter replacement schedule. The frequency of filter replacement depends on the filter’s efficiency, whether you have smokers or pets at home and other factors. To stay safe, set a reminder to check the filter once a month. You shouldn’t wait longer than the recommended schedule for filter replacement.
5. Can you recommend a thermostat?
A programmable thermostat provides more benefits over a manually controlled one. But, not all HVAC systems work with a single thermostat. When discussing with a HVAC technician, find out what thermostat is recommended for your unit. Check if they can demonstrate how you should use the thermostat after installation.
6. How much should this cost me?
Replacement, repairs, and maintenance services of an HVAC system and its parts can vary widely, which makes this difficult to determine ahead. Prices depend on the services acquired and the system needs. Some of the services include:
- Maintenance – HVAC technicians can give a flat rate for their services, but the costs can depend on several factors such as your location, number of HVAC units, and the HVAC company itself.
- Repair – this can vary according to the time needed for the repair, the replacement parts required, and the service fees.
- Replacement – the costs involved in replacing a new HVAC system at home will depend on the size of your home, installation complexity and location, system features, and additional parts.
7. How long should installation take?
It is essential to have an idea of the basic timeline needed for the service. Ask how long you should expect your HVAC technician to finish installing the unit you chose. Some units may take a longer time to install, and this could be one factor to help you in the decision-making step.
8. How can I save money on my electricity bill?
There are various ways to cut on power costs and your HVAC technician may give you ideas. Here are some ways to minimize your energy costs:
- Choose a high-efficiency HVAC system.
- Adjust the thermostat when going out of your home for more than two hours.
- Use a ceiling fan to help move the air around the room or house.
- Regularly clean your furnace filters.
- Schedule a yearly maintenance on your HVAC system to guarantee better efficiency.
- Use a programmable thermostat.
Closing Thoughts
Maintaining your HVAC system can be costly, but it ensures your family’s comfort, energy efficiency, and air quality. Contact a local HVAC company to help you decide on the best system to use for your home. The expertise and training of HVAC technicians should add a guarantee that you are equipped with correct information in choosing a system that works best for your needs.
