Install or Repair Your Heating and Air Conditioning System
Keeping your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter is essential for maintaining a comfortable living environment. That’s where heating and air conditioning come into play.
Both of these systems help to keep indoor air at optimal levels year-round, which is why it’s important to know how to install or repair them when necessary.
The primary difference between these two systems is that heat pumps and central air conditioning both move heat from one place to another; the main difference is that a heat pump moves heat with the help of an outside source (usually geothermal ground or water), while central air conditioning uses fans and ducts to move air around the house.
There are many advantages to installing a separate heating system rather than relying on an existing furnace during colder months. And vice versa with an independent A/C unit instead of having it built into the furnace. It all comes down to personal preference.
Regardless of whether you have one or both at this point, here is everything you need to know about installing or repairing your heating and cooling system so that you can make the right choice for you and your home.
Install a New Heating System
The first step in installing a new heating system is to figure out what kind of system will work best for your home. If you’re unsure where to start, a professional HVAC contractor can walk you through the process.
- Central Heating Systems – Central heating systems run off of a boiler, which is similar to a large tank of water with an element in it that heats the water. This then travels to a system of pipes that spread the hot water throughout your home. Central heating systems are typically energy efficient, easy to maintain, and last a long time. They also have a variety of installation options, so you can choose a system that best suits your home and your needs.
- Geothermal Systems – Geothermal systems are a type of central heating system that makes use of the earth’s natural temperature to efficiently heat your home. Geothermal systems work by connecting a series of pipes to the ground outside. The pipes then lead back into your home, where the heat is transferred to your water heater and radiators, which evenly distributes warmth throughout your home. Geothermal systems are very efficient, durable, and quiet. Plus, they require very little maintenance and are a great option for environmentally conscious homeowners.
- Indoor Air Quality Systems – Indoor air quality systems are a great option for homeowners with allergies or asthma. These systems reduce airborne contaminants by filtering and/or purifying the air with a system of specialized filters. Indoor air quality systems are a great choice for houses with lots of kids and pets since they help to reduce allergens like dust, pollen, and pet dander.
Repair an Old Heating System
If your heating system is old and in need of repair, you may want to consider replacing it entirely. While it’s possible to repair older systems, doing so can be costly and time-consuming, and it may not be worth the trouble.
If your heating system is more than 10 years old, you may want to consider replacing it with a newer, more efficient system. Newer systems are much more energy-efficient than older models, which can save you money on your monthly bills and make your home safer as well.
If you decide to repair your old system, be sure to follow these steps:
- System Evaluate – Before you begin to repair your old heating system, you need to evaluate it to determine what’s wrong and what needs to be fixed. One of the best ways to do this is to hire a professional to perform a thorough inspection. They can identify any issues with your system and let you know what repairs are necessary.
- Clean and Replace Parts – If your system is broken, you can probably fix it by replacing damaged or broken parts. Before you go out and buy new parts, though, make sure they’re compatible with your system. If you’re unsure whether parts are compatible, you can call an HVAC contractor. They’ll be able to tell you what parts you need to replace and help you navigate any warranty and safety concerns.
How to Install a New Air Conditioning System
Installing a new air conditioning system is a major project that requires planning and preparation. Before you begin installing a new AC system, make sure to check with your local building department to see what requirements and permits you need.
AC System Types
There are three main types of AC systems:
- Central AC
- Mini Split
- Ductless
Central AC and ductless AC are very similar; both use a system of ducts to circulate and cool air throughout a home.
Mini split AC systems, on the other hand, use the outside walls of a building to cool the indoor environment.
Central AC systems are the most common, but mini-split AC systems are growing in popularity. Depending on your needs and home, you may want to consider a mini-split or ductless AC system.
Repair an Old Air Conditioning System
If your old AC system is in need of repair, you have a few different options: you can replace the whole system, replace the AC unit itself, or repair the system you have.
It all depends on the extent of the damage and the cost of each option. Depending on the severity of the damage, repairing your old AC system may not be worth it. If you have an old system that’s in disrepair, it may be more cost-effective to simply replace it with a new AC unit entirely.
Before you make a final decision, it may be a good idea to get a few estimates from contractors to make sure you have all the information you need.
Bottom Line
Now that you know how to proceed with installing or repairing heating and air conditioning systems, it’s time to make your home as comfortable as possible. Install a new HVAC system or repair your old one and enjoy the benefits of a more comfortable living environment.
