It’s wonderful to live in a society in which we can flip a switch or turn a knob and get warm in winter. In fact it’s so easy, we can sometimes forget about our heating system and any maintenance needs it might have. Perhaps we’d rather not think about something that big for fear that servicing it will cost a fortune. As with most things a little knowledge and facing the monster :>} is best. What do you need to do now and what should you be aware of?
Change the filter. This is easy to do yourself. Writing this post reminded me that I hadn’t changed mine in over a year, so I did it today and found a high performance filter that lasts 12 months, and does better at filtering out allergens with “electrostatically charged fibers” and a “1550 microparticle rating.” Usually you should change your filter every 3 months.
Have professional HVAC service checks. The HVAC industry recommends twice per year checkups. Most people find that once per year is more than adequate.
What is involved in a maintenance service?
- Gas piping is checked for leaks.
- Burner combustion is checked for efficiency.
- Heat exchanger is checked for efficiency, leaks, safety.
- Moving parts are lubricated.
- Functioning of controls is checked.
- Electrical connections are checked and tightened.
- Fans/blowers are cleaned.
You might be able to go longer between service calls. This makes the most sense if your unit is fairly new. At stake can be efficiency of your system, and in some cases safety. Older systems can develop leaks, which can include carbon monoxide. A CO2 detector alarm is a good measure. For most it isn’t a matter of the exact cycle of maintenance, but rather doing it all. You really don’t want to ignore this important household system.
Should you get uprades to your system? Depending on your system and space requirements you may be able to add a few options. There are filter systems that can take allergens, bacteria, and even viruses out of your conditioned air. You can add AC to your current system. You may be able to save energy while making your home more comfortable with a new programmable thermostat. You might change the blower motor or controlling circuitry. There may be exposed ductwork that could use more insulation. And you could insulate your return air – these last 2 points obviously to increase efficency and energy usage.
When should I replace my system? Systems over 10 years old are candidates, however systems are usually designed to last 25 to 30 years. Efficiency, designated in AFUE % can get as low as 50% in an older or ill maintained system. Regular maintenance and service can increase those numbers. Whether a new 90% efficient system (there are some that claim 95%) will pay for itself in 8 to ten years really depends on how much heat you use each winter. Here’s an example: if you’ve currently got a 70% efficient system and it costs $1,200 a year compared to a 90% system which could reduce your bill by $300 a year,the numbers aren’t going to pencil and return the investment in any reasonable time period. If you spend quite a bit more on your HVAC system per year and you get a highly efficient system along with a sophisticated thermostat, the numbers might work. It really will depend on your situation – so sharpen those pencils and do the math before plunging into a purchase of this size!
And after any and all research you do, it’s always helpful to seek the services of a recommended HVAC professional.
JR Mathwig Builders on HelpHive
What are the things that you can do to protect your home from the ravages of winter? What things can save you time and effort later? Here are some reminders that go a long way toward a worry free winter and coming into the spring in good shape.
s not a “do it yourself” type of job and can be very confusing. You’ll need help from a fully qualified and licensed HVAC contractor. Here’s the typical process for finding and selecting a qualified professional:
Now you’ve made your decision and signed a proposal or contract with your new HVAC contractor – what can you expect next?
customer.
But not to fear, you can be happier than this little guy IF you choose the right equipment AND contractor.
quality and reduction of pollen and dust in the house is a terrific benefit. Like many people, my friends have allergic reactions to pollen, bacteria and dust mites. Allergies including hay fever and asthma affect 41 million Americans or about one out of six people. This month here in the Pacific Northwest many are being affected by tree pollen, including maples, alders and the cottonwood cotton floating through the air like snow, reminding us to keep allergy meds stocked up. It’s a blessing to have a set of filters capturing the bulk of the pollen and dust in the house and providing a much healthier indoor breathing experience. The Honeywell EAC is “an advanced and easy-to-use, whole-house solution that traps and filters up to 98% of pollutants from the air passing through your heating and cooling system. This advanced air cleaner captures microscopic impurities like dust, smoke and smog particles in addition to larger particles like mold spores and cat dander. It works by placing an electric charge on airborne particles, and then collecting the charged pollutants like a magnet. Plus, you can say goodbye to monthly filter replacements by simply washing the air cleaner cells in your dishwasher or sink.”That was the sales pitch, and they are sure glad the HVAC company suggested it to them. My friend gladly admits to being part of the 81% of people using EACs who say they have found “significant” relief from having cleaner air in the home. The unit wasn’t expensive and the filters are easy to clean, they were advised to simply run them through the dishwasher.
ell recommends consulting the manufacturer of your dishwasher before you attempt to wash the electronic cells – always a good idea. The only recommended washing methods for Electronic Air Cleaner cells are with soaps that are safe for use on aluminum, such as automatic dishwasher detergents. Set four mugs or glasses upside-down to rest the cells on top of. This protects the cells from the dishwasher spikes that may break ionizing wires, and bend collector plates. Never allow the cells to go through the drying cycle. This will “bake on” any materials that were not removed during the wash cycle, my friend says she opens the dishwasher door after the wash and lets them air dry on the racks. If you don’t let them air dry then be careful when removing cells after washing, the cells may be hot, and sharp edges may cause cuts. After washing the cells, take a clean cloth and gently wipe down the ionizing wires. Then slide them back into the EAC unit.
We are all holding our breath as Washington borrows billions of dollars to get the economy back on track. How can the Stimulus Bill help you as a homeowner? One of the ways involves incentives available for upgrading to an Energy Star rated heat pump, air conditioner, water heater or gas furnace. Seth Swetman of 
