When you’re in the HVAC business for as long as we have been, you hear plenty of the same questions. We’re always happy to answer any of your questions, so in this post, we’re going to go over some of the most common questions we get about heating systems.
Does a bigger system provide better comfort?
That may have been true in the past, when it was believed that getting your home heated as fast as possible was the only thing that mattered. We know better now, however, and understand that what you actually need is a perfectly sized system. That will allow your system to work as efficiently as possible while still getting the job done in a reasonable amount of time.
Systems that are too big may create a problem called short-cycling, in which the heater turns on and off rapidly. On the other hand, a system that’s too small will run endlessly without ever getting the job done. As you can imagine, either scenario will drive up your heating bill.
When do I replace my heater instead of repairing it?
Your heater is expected to need a few repairs throughout its lifetime. But when the repairs become too frequent, it could be time for replacement. That’s because if you keep getting every problem repaired, you could end up paying way more than if you’d just gotten it replaced with a newer, more efficient model.
You should expect the need for repairs to increase after the unit has turned ten years old. The system itself could last 15 years or more depending on how well it’s taken care of, but the ten-year mark is where you’ll want to start keeping a closer eye on how it performs.
How often should I change my air filter?
For efficiency and your safety, it’s important to have the air filter changed regularly. Just how often it needs to be changed will vary. Some homes need them replaced every two months, and some may not need it replaced for six months. It largely depends on how many people are in your home, if there are any furry pets, and how dusty the environment is outside your home.
If you weren’t told how often to change it when the system was first installed, the best thing would be to call up a local HVAC contractor in Sacramento. They can give you a good figure based on your home situation.
Is maintenance really, truly necessary?
Yes! And we’re not just saying that because we’re an HVAC company. Maintenance is even more important for heaters since heat and combustion can be dangerous to your family and your home, such as in the case of overheating or carbon monoxide leaks. Consistent maintenance all goes toward:
- Keeping your monthly heating bill low.
- Preventing the unit from breaking down.
- Extending the lifespan of the unit.