Fall 2012

Do You Need a New HVAC System This Fall?

Think back to winter. How did your heating system hold up? Was your family warm and comfortable all season long? Did you frequently struggle and fight with your furnace to get it working right? Were your energy bills through the roof? Depending on your answers to these questions, it may be time to think about a new heating system. In fact, for maximum efficiency and savings, this fall may be the best time for you to upgrade your whole HVAC system, including cooling.

New System = Savings

The biggest argument that most homeowners have against upgrading their HVAC equipment is the cost. Yes, getting new HVAC equipment is an expense. And yes, it can be quite costly. However, new HVAC systems are so efficient and pay for themselves so quickly with savings on your energy bill that they should be considered a sound investment, especially when switching from older systems. Whether you heat your home with oil, gas or electric heat, a new, efficient system can save you plenty on your monthly bill.

Aside from saving on routine costs, there is also the matter of repair costs. Have you had to have your HVAC system repaired in the last year, aside from routine maintenance? Repairs can be expensive, and if you have an older system that breaks down frequently, the costs can really add up.

When you also consider the hassle of fussing with an old HVAC system and the convenient comfort of a new model, you may realize it is time to upgrade.

Not Just Heating

When looking at a new heating system, you may want to consider upgrading the rest of your HVAC system as well. Although it seems counterintuitive to upgrade your cooling system just before winter, there are benefits.

The main benefit of upgrading your heating and cooling systems is that you can get what is called a matched system, in which all the components are designed by the manufacturer to work with one another. This creates maximum efficiency, which meets the ultimate in comfort and savings for you and your family.

With fall upon us, and winter not far behind, now is the time to think about whether your home could benefit from an HVAC upgrade.

Humidify For Your Health

Winter is approaching, and that means dry air. Aside from causing itchy, dry skin and chapped lips, air that is too dry presents other health concerns. Keeping the air in your home moist with a humidifier can counteract these effects and help keep your family healthy. The result is an effective, low cost contribution to your family’s health and comfort.

Benefits of Humidification

Keeping the air in your home at a properly humidity level provides several health benefits, such as:

• Increased energy levels. Your body has more trouble transferring oxygen to the blood from dry air, which can make you feel tired or fatigued. Humidification helps the oxygenation process.
• Reduced chance of infections. By keeping mucus membranes moist, humid air reduces your body’s susceptibility to cold, flu and other infections.
• Relief of cold and sinus symptoms, as well as shorter recovery time from these ailments.
• Reduction of asthma symptoms.
• Facilitates sleep, especially for infants and young children.
• Helps prevent nosebleeds.
• Reduces levels of airborne dust and allergens.

In addition to all these potential health benefits, moist air can also extend the life of wooden floors and furniture, as well as reducing static electricity.

Please note that while humidifiers have health benefits, they are not meant to cure, treat or diagnose any illness or ailment. Humidifiers can help keep you from getting sick, and help relieve symptoms, but you should still seek professional treatment from a doctor if you or anyone in your family is feeling ill.

Finally, keep in mind that humidifiers are not without risk. Air that is too humid can create water damage, and the hot steam from a humidifier can cause injury.

Humidifying the Whole House

Much like air conditioners, humidifiers come in a variety of shapes and sizes. You can get a small model for a single room, such as a nursery or bedroom. You can also get a humidification system which covers your entire home.

A whole house humidification system is incorporated into your HVAC system to deliver moist air throughout your home in winter or any other dry times. These systems can be particularly helpful if you live in the desert or any area with a dry climate.

Whole house humidification requires professional installation, so consult with a licensed contractor in your area. He can help you choose the right model for your needs, which will help keep your family safe and comfortable year round.