To keep your home comfortable, you need a furnace and air conditioning system that is specifically designed to provide relief from our region’s warm summers and frigid winters. To identify the right components and features for your system, it is important to understand some of the basic elements found in furnaces and air conditioning systems. Because Sinclaire Home Systems is known for providing the best heating repair in Norfolk, we have the knowledge and experience to guide you in your selection.
Key Items to Consider
- The Size of the Furnace and AC – Both the furnace and AC you buy for home use must be sized appropriately. A unit that is undersized will not have the capacity to provide sufficient heat or cooling for your home. Accordingly, you will be uncomfortable, even when the unit is running. And, because it is undersized, it will not operate efficiently, increasing your energy bills. A unit that is oversized generates equally inefficient results. Though an oversized unit will adjust the temperature quickly, it does not run long enough to adjust the air humidity; and you may be uncomfortable still. Accordingly, finding the right sized unit for your home is one of the most important factors in selecting your new system. You can check online cooling and heating capacity calculators to get a general idea of HVAC system capacity, but we recommend having an expert measure your home and run the calculations to ensure the best results.
- Energy Rating – The present generation of furnaces and air conditioners comply with the latest energy rating specifications. All will provide a SEER rating to help you compare different units and understand the level of efficiency they provide. Devices with enhanced energy efficiency will cost more than basic, less effiicent devices. Keep in mind that an investment in higher efficiency now will save money on utility bills for the life of the unit.
- Warranty – Because we expect furnaces and air conditioners to last 10 to 15 years or more, you want to understand the warranty offered by the manufacturer. Some brands may offer a comprehensive warranty, and others offer a limited warranty on their products.
- Features – As technology improves and innovates, HVAC system manufacturers are unveiling devices with cutting-edge features. For example, you can already find systems that can detect people in rooms and direct airflow accordingly. Some advanced models have Wi-Fi connectivity too. From programmable schedules to systems that break your home into zones for more efficient use, you will find many features that offer customization for your unique needs. These features add to the cost, so be sure you don’t pay for features you don’t need or intend to use.
- Reviews – Make sure to evaluate what customers say about your prospective furnace and air conditioning systems. You can check these reviews online and also on social media sites. Service companies like Sinclaire Home Services, who have extensive experience with these systems, will also provide valuable insight as you consider brands and features.
Finding a Reliable Agency Offering HVAC Services
If this is the first time you are buying a heating and cooling system, or if you have purchased a system previously, we recommend researching the factors above. As mentioned above, technology is continually changing; and manufacturers are updating their products accordingly. Armed with this knowledge, you will be able to make a better, more informed decision.
Don’t be afraid to ask the experts for help in this area. Sinclaire Home Services has provided the best furnace repair in Norfolk for decades, and we are happy to answer questions and share our insight with you. Call us today at (508) 668-8200 to talk with one of our knowledgeable specialists and simplify your research and decision.
