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Spring is almost here. At least \u201cofficially,\u201d since there\u2019s no guarantee a cold snap won\u2019t strike Indiana during April. But spring is still a time when people begin making plans for the middle of the year and the change in weather as we emerge from under the thumb of winter. The term \u201cspring cleaning\u201d now simply means all<\/em> the planning that goes into the season. Part of that planning may be upgrading the HVAC system in your house.<\/p>\n The answer to that question is different for everyone. You may only need to make a few repairs to the ventilation system (this is often overlooked). Or you arrange to have a completely new HVAC system installed to replace one that\u2019s older than 15 to 20 years. Let\u2019s look at a few considerations to make as you plan ahead for your home comfort.<\/p>\n Have you had your ductwork tested during the last five years? (Related question: have you ever had your ducts tested at all?) If more than five years has passed since you last had HVAC experts test the ducts for air leaks, we recommend scheduling it this spring. Air leaks are an insidious drain on power that often goes unnoticed. You may be paying 25% more on cooling and<\/em> heating costs because of these leaks. If you do have air leaks in the ducts, duct sealing will make them airtight once more.<\/p>\n Is humidity usually a problem in your home during summer? Running the air conditioner for even longer isn\u2019t the best way to approach this problem\u2014it only wastes large amount of electrical power. Consider having a whole-house dehumidifier installed. This is an investment in better comfort, lower electrical bills, and a healthier house free from mold.<\/p>\n Are your plans turning toward junking your aging HVAC system and installing a fresh one? If so, look into the possibility of a solar-powered heat pump or ground-source (geothermal) heat pump. You may have considered either option before and dismissed it. But these systems are in easier reach than you may realize, and they quickly pay back their installation costs with energy savings that you can\u2019t find in other types of systems. We work with both geothermal and solar power, and we\u2019re happy to help you find a great, affordable option.<\/p>\n Here\u2019s a big change, but it may be a great one if you see remodeling in your future. Ductless mini split heat pumps are cooling and heating solutions that require no ventilation, making them ideal for remodels, add-on rooms, and new construction.<\/p>\nWhat Do I Need to Upgrade?<\/h2>\n
The ductwork may need work<\/h3>\n
Get that humidity under control<\/h3>\n
Time to finally go solar or geothermal<\/h3>\n
The ductless mini split heat pump path<\/h3>\n