What Do I Need To Consider When Doing An HVAC Remodel?
Remodeling your existing home can be a daunting project, but when considering your HVAC system, there are some key points to consider in order to make the most of this upgrade opportunity.
What Unit Capacity Do I Need?
Heating and cooling isn’t cheap, but it can be more expensive if the unit is improperly sized based on your space. A unit that is too small may fight to keep a comfortable temperature; alternately, a unit that’s too large may cycle on and off more regularly, creating wear and tear, and reducing the life of the unit. When remodeling, you need to consider the size of the existing space as well as any additions or modifications, to come up with an accurate square footage of the heated and cooled space.
Do I Need To Replace My Ductwork?
Whatever you do, don’t skimp on the ductwork. It is vitally important that your ductwork is clean, obstruction-free and laid out efficiently. If you are building an addition to your home and adding a second unit is on your list, you might want to consider extending existing ductwork. However, overextending your ducting can lead to reducing your efficiency significantly, so weigh your options carefully. Begin by evaluating your current ductwork’s condition; the Environmental Protection Agency’s ENERGY STAR program averages a home loses twenty to thirty percent of the conditioned air due to leaks in its duct system due to improper connections and other inefficiencies. In addition, consider whether your existing ductwork is adequately insulated since poor insulation can reduce the entire system’s heating and cooling efficiency.
Will A More Efficient Unit Save Me Money?
Clearly, the most important aspect of your home HVAC system is its efficiency. When remodeling, you should definitely consider upgrading your unit. Replacing an older system with something newer and more efficient can save you up to 20 percent in your heating and cooling costs. Even better than putting that savings back in your pocket, you may qualify for certain federal tax credits based on the unit you choose.
Remodeling your home is very exciting prospect, but get expert advice from the friendly crew at ICEBLAST LLC so you know you’ve made the most educated decision.