Water heaters, furnaces and air conditioning systems have made massive improvements in the last few decades. This can mean that when it comes to upgrading your system, there are lots of different options that may make your decision a little more tricky. Fortunately, this information can help to guide you through the process.
Terms to Know:
There are a number of terms you should be familiar with to choose the right system for your needs. The SEER rating is used to reflect the efficiency of air conditioning systems. Ideally, you should aim for a SEER rating of 14 or higher.
The SEER rating is also used for centralized heat pump systems, but if you are looking at room units, it will have an EER rating that should be greater than 11.
When considering furnaces, you will see an AFUE rating. This number should be used to compare fuel efficiency. The number refers to the percentage of energy used in heating. If a system is rated at 0.75, this means that 25% of the energy is wasted as it is only 75% energy efficient. Many modern systems are now rated at 0.90 or above.
The Energy Factor or EF rating is used to denote the energy efficiency of water heaters. Natural gas system should have a rating of greater than 0.67, but electric systems should be greater than 2.0.
Tips to Save Money:
Upgrading your heating system can be a costly expense, but there are ways to save money. The first tip is to seal and insulate your home before you upgrade. There is no point in buying a large new furnace if a significant amount of heated air is going to leak straight out of your home. If you insulate and seal first, you may find that you don’t actually need such as large unit.
You should also investigate the types of rebates available in your area. Many states and cities offer rebates such as “whole house” or “solar water” which can offer thousands of dollars in rebates. There will be specific conditions to qualify for the rebate, so it is worth checking before you start shopping for your new system. You may even qualify for a tax credit or other financial incentives.
It is also important to shop around. Upgrading your heating system is a major investment in your home, so it is important to obtain multiple quotes from reputable contractors to compare the prices. Just remember that cheaper isn’t always better, so you need to ensure that your contractor can offer you a good balance of quality and value.
Choosing a Contractor:
Remember that before you agree to any work, you need to ensure that you are choosing a reputable and professional contractor. Your contractor should be licensed and comply with all state and city regulations. Your contractor should also be able to assist you with obtaining the correct building permits necessary for the project. The contractor should also have experience in heating system installation and carry sufficient insurance for your added protection.