Ensuring that you’re using the proper thermostat settings and that your ductwork is sealed tight are two of the most important variables for determining heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) efficiency. If these two factors are not up to par, even the most efficient heating and cooling systems are going to underperform.
In a forced air system, some furnace noise is normal and to be expected. But when they hear unusual bangs, pops, squeals or clicks, homeowners get worried—and with good reason!
During cold Minnesota winters, homeowners keep their windows and doors closed. While this keeps a house warm, it can also trap pollution. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says indoor air pollution is a considerable health risk. It can cause an array of serious health problems, including:
Asthma, nasal congestion, fatigue, dry eyes and headaches, are just a few of the symptoms you may have if the indoor-air quality in your home is not up to par. Because dust contributes to pollutants in the air, take a big step toward improving air quality with these seven tips to bust the dust.
Humidifiers and dehumidifiers are used to control moisture in the air. Regions with very cold winters and hot muggy summers are especially susceptible to large fluctuations in humidity. Though not as common as air conditioners, humidifiers and dehumidifiers are important components of home comfort. To determine the humidity levels that are right for your home, take a look at this humidity table.
There’s no question that buying a furnace is an expensive proposition. The high cost of heating equipment has driven many consumers to search the Internet in the hopes of finding lower prices than they can get through their local HVAC contractor. While some great online deals are out there, many contain hidden costs that can come back to haunt bargain-shopping homeowners. If you’re considering buying a furnace online, it’s important to keep a few things in mind.
The winters in the Twin Cities are long, and homeowners often are using their heating systems nearly non-stop heating until spring. This keeps you warm and comfortable, but can mean that the air in your home becomes dry and filled with static electricity. However, if you install and use a whole-house humidification system, you’ll see the humidity levels in your home restored to a comfortable range, which not only benefits you and your loved ones, but your possessions, as well.
Ductwork that is damaged, disconnected at the joints and registers, and lacking adequate insulation affects homes both old and new. The average home loses 20 percent or more of heating and cooling energy due to leaky and damaged ducts. The energy loss goes even higher if you have inadequate insulation in your home’s unconditioned spaces, and you take into account the extra load on your heating and cooling equipment as it cycles longer, because of leaks and insulation issues, to reach your desired temperature.
A red-tagged furnace is a homeowner’s worst nightmare, particularly when it happens in the dead of winter. Not only will you have an expensive repair bill or the cost of replacing your furnace to swallow, but you also could be without heat for an extended period while you solve the problem. According to law, utility companies must disconnect red-tagged furnaces from their fuel supply or power source, and cannot reconnect them until the necessary repairs have been made or the units have been replaced.
When you’re looking for a new furnace, there are multiple factors you want to take into account. While it’s important that you pay attention to energy efficiency ratings like annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE), you don’t want it to be the only criteria you’re considering. A lot of different things can have an impact on the repercussions of your furnace replacement decision, so you want to be sure that you’re well informed before jumping into anything.
