High energy bills leave many South Plains area homeowners wondering if they need a more efficient heating system. Before upgrading a heating system, following these steps will ensure you make the best decision for your home and budget.
Have an Energy Audit Performed
Is your heating problem the result of an inefficient HVAC system, poor insulation or air leaks in your home? An energy audit will help you determine if your home is wasting energy.
In some cases, you may find that simple home improvements like added insulation or weatherproofing can save you the cost of a new heating system. Even if you do need a new system, sealing air leaks and adding insulation will help the new system work more efficiently, saving you money in the long term.
Hire a Qualified, Licensed HVAC Professional
Before upgrading a heating system, talk to a qualified HVAC professional to find the right system for your needs. Improper sizing or installation of a furnace or heat pump system can cost money or lead to health issues such as mold accumulation or carbon monoxide leakage. The easiest way to tell if an HVAC professional is properly qualified is to look for official licensing and relevant professional certifications.
Have a Heating Load Calculation Performed
Before making a final decision on your heating system, you should have a load calculation performed. This calculation factors in the size and layout of your home, as well as many other variables, to determine the correct heating system size for your home. Other variables include amounts of insulation, airtightness, your typical weather, number and placement of windows, and the amount of available shade.
All of these calculations help determine the correct heating system size. An undersized system won’t be able to comfortably heat your home during the coldest weather. An oversized system will add an unnecessary cost up front, plus waste energy, stress parts, provide uneven heating, and not adequately filter the air in your home.
For help in determining your heating needs before upgrading a heating system, or for any other HVAC needs, please contact us at Bruce Thornton A/C. Our experienced technicians have served the South Plains area since 1972.
