A new HVAC unit is a significant investment, and you want to be confident your money is well spent if you make an upgrade. There are many things to consider, and if you don’t have experience with heating and cooling units, it can be difficult to know where to begin. For the best results, you should consult an HVAC contractor and follow the do’s and don’ts below. 

Do:

Know the heating and cooling capacities

A system’s heating and cooling capacities are measured in British Thermal Units, or BTUs. This dictates how well the system will heat and cool your home. Picking the wrong size can lead to poor performance or over-performance, in which case, you’re wasting money. An HVAC contractor will take a few things into account to determine the right-sized unit for your home, including total square footage of your house, amount of direct sun exposure, number of people in the household, and climate.

Opt for energy efficiency

One of the best investments you can make is an energy efficient system. It can lead to significant savings over time, and if you plan on selling your home in the coming years, can be a big draw to potential buyers. Efficiency is expressed as the seasonal energy-efficiency rating (SEER). Today, the minimum SEER for all systems is 14, but the higher the number, the more you’ll save in energy costs. You may also qualify for rebates or tax breaks for the purchase, so look into industry-leading systems that will lower your carbon footprint.

Don’t:

Forget the thermostat

A great way to take energy savings even further is to pair your new HVAC unit with a smart thermostat. These technologies give you total climate control. You can program different temperatures for different rooms, control your HVAC system from a smart app, and set timers so you won’t waste energy over-running it when you’re at work or on vacation.

Handle the job alone

Once you install a new HVAC system, don’t let your investment fall by the wayside. Scheduling annual maintenance with an HVAC contractor is one of the best ways to ensure everything stays in working order. A professional will check the duct work, change your air filters, and investigate any unusual sounds to keep your home comfortable year-round. Regular maintenance and repairs will also lessen the likelihood of an unexpected breakdown. 

If you’re ready to upgrade your system or maintain your new one, turn to the HVAC contractors at Miller Heating & Air Conditioning. Located in Wewahitchka, FL, this family-owned and -operated company knows how important home comfort is, and since 2004, has assisted clients with heating and air replacement and installation services. They also provide commercial HVAC assistance, which you can learn more about on their website. If you’re ready to make your home more comfortable and improve energy efficiency, call (850) 639-3319 today to schedule a consultation.