A Bad Installation Looks Like…

Having a heating or cooling system put in is an important investment in your health and comfort. That’s why it’s so very vital that such systems are put in place properly and efficiently.

What’s the importance of proper installation?

The majority of added energy bill costs come from poor or sub-par performance of your HVAC system. While tweaks and repairs to the system may be necessary over time, a bad installation will have you doomed from the start.

Energy-efficient systems are only cost effective if they operate as intended. A poor installation may cause such a system to operate in an even more expensive manner.

Likewise, an improper installation can be a hidden danger to your health and well-being. Misaligned duct-work can come apart unexpectedly, exposed wire can pose a potential fire hazard, and chemical residue can be abrasive and toxic to children or pets.

What to look out for.

There are some red flags that your system has not been put in place correctly, which most of the time will become apparent immediately following a system installation. Keep an eye out for the following;

• Liquid gathering at the bottom of the unit
• Irregular noises – high pressured air or gas escaping from a crack or rupture
• Exposed wiring, especially near ground level
• Noticeable and persistent odor
• Blatant misalignment of the HVAC unit or its constituents

Check with your HVAC specialist if your newly installed system exhibits any of these characteristics.

What’s a Homeowner to do?

While the average homeowner will most likely not be able to remedy a poor installation (nor should they attempt to), there are several steps they can undertake to be proactive.

Choose a NATE-certified HVAC company – In the HVACR industry, this certification is a true standard of quality. North American Technician Excellence (NATE) is the nation’s largest non-profit organization in the industry; they rigorously test members to ensure service knowledge of the highest caliber.

Ask Questions - It helps to make sure you know what to expect after your installation is finished. Are there any particular noises that you should expect to hear? When should I schedule my next appointment? Keep yourself in the know, be proactive, and let your specialist know if you need clarification.

Monitor and Maintain – Keep track of your household’s energy bills and watch out for any drastic fluctuation, which may be indicative of a system malfunction.

Moving forward, plan to have an HVAC specialist visit twice annually; not only to make sure your system is ready for the new temperate season but also to detect any subtle defects or damage that may be affecting your energy costs.

It’s a smart move to stick with the same HVAC outfit throughout, as they will be able to perform the most efficient inspection and

Scheduling an inspection has never been easier. If you’re in the Salt Lake County area, give us a call!

The 5 Maintenance Checks You Need to Prepare for Winter

The changing seasons are a time for fresh starts, transitions, and preparation. As homeowners start battening down the hatches for the colder months, you can get a head start by making sure these five areas are prepped and ready.

Air Filter Upgrade.

While it should be changed every month, your home’s air filter should be changed and ready for when you begin using your heating system. A clogged air filter will cause your HVAC system to use more energy, resulting in an unnecessary increase in your heating bill. If you want to be proactive, you can even buy in bulk and avoid later trekking through the elements.

Closed Door Policy.

Also of vital importance is accounting for every entryway and open source for the outdoors to make its way inside. Windows, doorways, roof access and basement entries, areas where walls meet: all need to be properly adjusted and sealed to ensure that no wasted circulation occurs.

An open path through the attic can let as much heat escape as a wide-open window, so be certain that your home’s fortification is thorough.

Out with the Cold, In with the Humidity.

Restarting a heating system after enjoying the summer months can quickly create a dry environment indoors. A humidifier can alleviate the pangs of this transition, thwart static buildup in your home, and even provide some additional health benefits for your air and complexion. It’s important to ensure that your humidifier unit is properly cleaned and ready to reinitiate, so take the proper steps to make sure it’s in working order.

If you’ve never thought about having a humidifier, there are a number of options available to you—from single room units to house-wide humidifying units that provide the most long-term benefit.

All Clear Outdoors.

An often-overlooked obstacle that can hinder savings is built up debris or foliage on or around your outdoor HVAC unit. Take the proper steps to clear the brush and buildup appropriately.

This is something best done while the weather is still temperate and the last thing you’ll want to worry about in the thick of winter. Make certain that the unit remains unobstructed and prevent any potential threats by trimming any nearby foliage.

Expert Opinion.

Before the increased demand hits, it’s in your best interest to have a trained HVAC specialist inspect your entire system to make sure it’s in fully operational. He or she will be able to provide you with the best practical advice for enjoying controlled-climate comfort during the winter while simultaneously saving wherever possible. Your specialist will also be able to perform a number of these checks if need be.

Unforeseen emergencies do happen, but having these preparations in place will help to minimize or even eliminate the threat of them occurring. For those unforeseeable worst-case scenarios, just know that emergency HVAC services do exist.