Winter is Coming to Vancouver
Fall is well underway, and everyone is busy. School, work, and the impending holidays may distract Vancouver homeowners from the current state of their home’s HVAC system. However, it’s a good idea to evaluate the home’s heating and cooling system to ensure the family’s comfort during those rainy, cold months ahead. Not only that, but an upgraded HVAC system will be excellent come summer. Vancouver residents don’t see too many too-hot days in the summer, but an efficient HVAC system is an answered prayer on those 100 degree days in July. Here are a few signs that it’s time to upgrade the HVAC system.
Signs It’s Time to Upgrade Your HVAC System
Heating and air conditioning systems don’t last forever. With regular and professional maintenance, they can last a decade or so. However, most homeowners will need to upgrade their house’s HVAC system at some point. Here are a few warning signs to look for when considering an upgrade:
1. The HVAC Repair Person Comes Around More Often Than Your Brother.
If it seems that the HVAC system is always in need of repair, it may be time to upgrade. HVAC repairs add up, and it may end up significantly cheaper to update the system rather than keep repairing the same issues over and over. Ditch the old system and get a new, more efficient one.
2. The House’s HVAC is Older Than Instagram.
As mentioned before, HVAC systems typically last a decade. Instagram was launched in 2010. If the house has an HVAC system from before the time of posting pictures of food online, it’s time to get a new one. Newer HVAC systems are more energy-efficient and will keep the home more comfortable.
3. It’s Too Hot or Too Cold Inside.
If it is always the wrong temperature in the home, that could be a sign that something is wrong with the current HVAC system. Comfort is critical. So, if the family isn’t comfortable, have a professional come to investigate the system. Common symptoms of a problematic HVAC system include duct problems, poor airflow, and increased humidity within the home. Additionally, if the unit runs continuously, but doesn’t seem to help the temperature, call a professional.
4. Excessive Noise
If the HVAC system is loud, call an HVAC professional to look at it. Any loud or excessive noises coming from the unit itself or the home’s ducts indicates an issue with the system.
Benefits of an HVAC Upgrade
If these issues ring familiar, don’t fret too much. There are plenty of benefits to upgrading the home’s HVAC system, including environmental and financial benefits.
1. Increased Property Value
Any time a new HVAC system is installed, the home’s property value increases. If homeowners are looking to sell their houses soon, an HVAC upgrade will go a long way toward attracting potential buyers. Many potential homeowners search for energy-efficient and modern homes. A new HVAC system will increase the homeowner’s bottom line when it’s time to sell.
2. Extended Warranties
A lot of the newer HVAC systems on the market come with extended warranties that dwarf older systems’ guarantees. Most modern HVAC systems come with a ten-year warranty at least, so everyone in the family can rest easy at night, knowing they’re safe from expensive repairs and HVAC issues for at least the next decade.
3. Longer-Lasting HVAC System
New HVAC systems are cheaper, more efficient, and last longer than older systems. Consider purchasing a high-efficiency HVAC system if anyone in the home has allergies. Take advantage of an on and off cycling system. An on and off cycling system makes the HVAC system much easier to maintain and repair.
4. Smart Thermostats
One of the most modern upgrades homeowners can add to their homes is a smart thermostat. Smart thermostats communicate through Wi-Fi, and many of them include apps through Apple’s App Store or Google Play. Depending on the specific model of the thermostat, it can detect when someone is coming home and automatically bring the home to a comfortable temperature before they even walk into the house. Additionally, smart thermostats are programmable and can learn the intricacies of the home after some time.
How To Care For a New HVAC System
Regular maintenance is crucial for the continued efficacy of the new HVAC system. Keep in mind these tips after upgrading to a new unit.
1. Change the Filters Regularly
Most HVAC systems (modern and old) require a filter change every one to three months. If anyone in the home has allergies, or if pets are living in the house, these filters need replacing more often. Make sure to purchase the correct filter for the system. Refer to the manufacturer’s specifications for this information. If filters aren’t routinely changed, it may disrupt the home’s airflow, which reduces the efficiency of the HVAC system.
2. Clean the Condensing Unit
Most HVAC systems have an outdoor unit with a fan on top. Additionally, these outdoor units have metal fins that often get clogged with dirt and pollen. Once every season, make sure to spray the outside of the unit with a water hose. Don’t use any pressure, though, because the metal fins are fragile.
3. Create Clearance Outside
Make sure the outdoor unit has a two-foot clearance on every side. Plants, dirt, grime, and pollen often affect the unit’s efficiency. Keeping all obstructions away from the unit will prevent that.
4. Call a Professional HVAC Repair Person for Maintenance Twice a Year.
The new HVAC system should receive maintenance two times a year. Make sure to have a licensed repair person come to perform preventative maintenance. These maintenance tasks include checking the refrigerant levels, evaluating the home’s heating, and monitoring the voltage on all wires.
How Can Tri-Tech Heating, Inc. Help?
Tri-Tech Heating, Inc. is a full-service heating and conditioning company. From maintenance to installation, Tri-Tech Heating’s team of trained professionals can help Vancouver homeowners with all of their home’s heating and cooling needs. Keep warm this winter and call today to get started!