Preparing for an Upgrade According to a Residential HVAC Installation Expert
“I can’t wait to replace my heater!” isn’t something most homeowners say about HVAC installation. A new system is a significant purchase, and when it’s unexpected, it doesn’t always spark excitement.
However, just like everything else, heaters don’t last forever. And an upgrade, although an investment, can actually benefit you and your home in the long run. Modern units tend to be more energy efficient, keeping your space comfortable without racking up utility costs.
Before replacing your heater in Kansas City, there are several factors you should consider. In this blog post, we’ll discuss 10 important things to think about to ensure you get the best heating system for your home.
1. Understand Your Current Energy Consumption
When considering a heating system replacement, it’s a good idea to assess how much energy you use. This knowledge can help you determine if your current system is inefficient and make a more informed decision when you’re ready to select a new unit.
Start by examining your energy bills over the past year to identify any patterns or spikes in usage. Additionally, think about any changes you have made to your home, like adding insulation or upgrading windows, as these can impact your energy consumption as well.
To get a more accurate understanding of your energy usage, consult with a home energy assessor. They can perform a thorough energy audit and provide you with cost-effective, energy-saving solutions. Armed with this information, you can confidently choose a new heater that meets your energy-efficiency goals and keeps utility costs as low as possible.
2. Know the Different Types of Heating System Replacements
There are several kinds of heaters available for HVAC installations, including furnaces, heat pumps, and boilers. Furnaces are the most common, using gas, oil, or electricity to generate the warm air that’s distributed throughout your home.
Heat pumps, on the other hand, work by transferring heat from one place to another, either from outside to inside in winter or from inside to outside in summer. Boilers, often powered by natural gas, use hot water or steam to pass heat through radiators or radiant floor heating systems.
Each type of heater has its advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to consider energy efficiency, installation cost, and maintenance requirements. A residential HVAC installation expert can guide you through the various options and help you decide on the heating system replacement that’s right for your needs and lifestyle.
3. Compare Efficiency Levels Prior to a Heating System Replacement
When you’re looking into replacing your heater in Kansas City, you not only need to be familiar with the different types of units, but their efficiency levels as well. Efficiency directly impacts your energy bills, so choosing a high-efficiency heating system ensures you’re getting the most bang for your buck.
Furnaces and boilers typically have an Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating, which measures the percent of heat produced for every dollar of fuel consumed. Higher AFUE ratings mean more efficient units. Heat pumps have Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) and Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF) ratings, indicating their cooling and heating efficiency, respectively.
4. Evaluate the Age and Performance of Your Current System
The age of your HVAC system can greatly impact its efficiency and effectiveness in heating your home. Over time, your system’s components wear down, forcing it to work harder and consume more energy.
Take a moment to assess the performance of your current heater. Are you experiencing frequent breakdowns or costly repairs? Has your heater been struggling to maintain a consistent temperature throughout your home? These issues may indicate that it’s time to replace your heater in Kansas City.
Also consider the lifespan of your equipment. On average, most heaters last between 15 and 20 years, depending on maintenance and usage. If your system is nearing the end of its lifespan, it’s in your best interest to start exploring heating system replacement options.
5. Determine the Size and Capacity Requirements of Your Home
Much like the story of Goldilocks and the Three Bears, a HVAC installation should be sized just right. A heater that’s too small will struggle to keep your home warm, while one that’s too large can lead to unnecessary energy usage and higher utility bills.
To determine an appropriately sized heating system replacement, consider your home’s square footage, ceiling height, insulation levels, and the number of windows and doors. A professional specializing in residential HVAC installation can also help with calculations and provide a precise estimation for your heating capacity needs.
6. Consider the Kansas City Climate
Kansas City winters can be downright brutal, with freezing temperatures being all too common. This means you need a HVAC installation you’re confident can keep your household warm and cozy all season long.
Factor in the heating capacity of the system and its ability to withstand extreme temperatures. A unit that’s specifically designed for colder climates will ensure optimal comfort and performance.
Additionally, take into account any unique features of your home that may affect your heating needs. For example, if your home has poor insulation or drafty windows, you may require a more powerful heating system to compensate for the heat loss.
7. Check Out Manufacturer Warranties Before HVAC Installation
Your heater’s warranty provides protection against any potential defects or malfunctions and shouldn’t be overlooked. Be sure to understand the terms and conditions of the warranty, including its duration and what’s covered.
Manufacturer warranties vary widely, so make it a point to closely compare models. Highly efficient heating system replacements generally have longer warranties than more basic units.
8. Research Rebates and Incentives for Replacing Your Heater in Kansas City
Many utility companies and manufacturers offer programs that incentivize homeowners who upgrade their heating systems to more energy-efficient solutions. These programs can help offset the costs of purchasing and installing a new heater, making it a more affordable option.
Start by looking into rebates on a local level and visit Evergy’s and Spire’s websites to explore their savings opportunities. You may also want to reach out to a trusted residential HVAC installation company in the area, as they may have additional rebate knowledge they can share.
Replacing your heater in Kansas City can also qualify you for tax credits. The federal government offers tax credits for energy-efficient home improvements, including heating systems. These can help lower your overall tax liability and make the investment in a new unit even more financially attractive.
9. Set a Budget for Replacing Your Heater in Kansas City
Your heating system replacement budget should align with your home’s needs. Don’t jump at the least expensive option just because the price tag is attractive. At the same time, you shouldn’t immediately opt for the biggest, costliest model, because there’s a good chance it’ll be more than your space requires.
Instead, use what you know about your home’s energy consumption and heating capacity to inform your decision. This will help you settle on a suitable price range that allows you to afford the right unit.
10. Partner with a Residential HVAC Installation Specialist
Quality HVAC installation is crucial to your system’s overall performance, efficiency, and lifespan. A trained professional has the knowledge and experience to complete the job the right way, so you can enjoy years of comfort.
The experts at Blue Heating & Cooling have you covered! As proud vendors of Lennox and Trane equipment, we work with you every step of the way to ensure your new system is the perfect fit for your home. We’re always happy to make recommendations and even mention upcoming rebates during our maintenance visits, so you’re always up to date on ways you can save.
We look out for our customers by going the extra mile to make sure your needs are met. For more information about replacing your heater in Kansas City, call (816) 719-1099.
