3 Factors to Consider in your HVAC Upgrade

08 Jan 3 Factors to Consider in your HVAC Upgrade

Kingsport, TN

Have you been spending more frequently on repairs to your heating or cooling system lately? If so, be proactive and have your system’s performance diagnosed by an experienced HVAC professional in Bristol at Thompson Electrical Service. Waiting for your aging HVAC unit to completely fail may involve more costly repair episodes for you in the meantime. But upgrading to a more efficient, Energy Star-rated unit can potentially save you hundreds of dollars per year on your power bills, in addition to making your home or office a more comfortable place to be at the times of year you need those comforts the most.

Choosing to upgrade before your current unit breaks down for good is the wisest move, and gives you time to fully research your buying options. Let’s take a look at three factors to consider if/when your HVAC pro from Thompson Electrical Service has advised a system upgrade.

1. Check other parts of your existing system. Your new HVAC unit will work at its very best when its surrounding environment is optimal. A programmable thermostat helps to automate and streamline your monthly energy usage. This will also limit the wear and tear on your new system as time passes. Also, make sure your ductwork is well-sealed with no discernible leaks that would dilute your airflow from fully arriving to its intended comfort areas. Also, make a point to check that your property is fully insulated, to ensure your home is retaining the heat and cool you intend for your indoor environment.
2. Choose the right system type for you. Most efficient HVAC systems combine a natural gas-powered furnace for heating and an electric unit for cooling. However, here in East Tennessee, where we have a more moderate climate, an air-source heat pump may be the best option for your heating. Some homeowners may choose to replace only the heating or cooling components of their system, however this could lead to future headaches if the old and new components don’t function together efficiently. You also will save significant money on labor by replacing the whole system at once. Whichever system setup best fits your needs, look for Energy Star models, as they are about 10-15% more efficient than standard models.

3. Select a unit best-sized for your home. Resist the urge to purchase a unit designed for a larger space than yours. A unit too large for your home will cycle on and off too much, likely making your home less comfortable as a result. Oversized units also shut off prematurely, not sufficiently dehumidifying the incoming air. This leaves the air wetter that, when mixed with your colder surfaces, leads potentially to condensation and mold growth. Imagine the repair bills involved if mold were to spread to your drywall or joints. So, needless to say, when it comes to selecting the best cooling unit for your home, size matters!

HVAC Installation and Maintenance in Johnson City, Bristol, and Kingsport, Tennessee

Professionals are professionals for a reason. Improper installation of your new HVAC system can reduce your system’s efficiency by up to 30%, which potentially cancels out the savings you would otherwise enjoy from upgrading to a more efficient solution.

At Thompson Electrical, our trusted heating and cooling technicians are excited to work with you in assessing the health of your HVAC system, helping you to select the best system upgrade option for your home, and expertly install it for you. We also keep professionals on 24-hour availability for any maintenance needs your new system may need as time moves forward. Take advantage of our regular HVAC maintenance services. To learn more, give us a call at (423) 343-5726.