Nothing is more important than the quality of your new HVAC system installation. It drives the longevity of your equipment, your indoor comfort and your energy bills. Before you sign a contract with an HVAC company, be sure that they follow the best industry practices.
Sizing
Beware of the contractor who goes by the size of your existing HVAC system for your replacement. A reputable contractor will conduct a load calculation using Manual J software by assessing the following factors before suggesting a system size:
• Cubic footage
• Attic and wall insulation levels
• Size, quality and placement of windows
• Floor plan design
• Air infiltration rates
• Landscaping factors
• Family size and ages
• Preferred indoor temperatures
• Number and use of appliances that create heat indoors
Each of these conditions affects how energy efficient your home is. Once the technician enters the data, the software returns recommendations about the size your system should be.
An HVAC system that’s too large or small won’t run as efficiently as one that’s the optimal size. If you install one that’s too large, it will run in short cycles that lower your comfort, leave humidity behind in the summer, drive up your energy bills, and need more repairs. A system that’s too small probably won’t be able to keep you as comfortable during weather extremes.
Duct Work Inspection
A new HVAC installation requires a thorough duct work inspection. If there are leaks, broken segments, or other signs of duct work failure, the contractor needs to replace it. It should also be sized properly by using Manual D to make sure that it has the right capacity for the new HVAC system.
Leaking duct work reduces the energy efficiency of the new HVAC system and if it’s too small, they will be noisy when the HVAC system runs. If the ducts are too large, there won’t be enough air pressure coming from the air handler to deliver the air to each room.
Exploring the Options
Once you’ve gone through the basics, review what you want from your new HVAC system with the expert. There are a number of system options that enhance comfort and energy efficiency like variable-speed operations and smart system controls.
If you need to install a new HVAC system, contact O.C. McDonald. We provide trusted HVAC services in the San Jose and Bay Areas or call us at (408) 295-2182 today.