Because they’re so complex, homeowners often have questions about how to get the most from an HVAC system. Heating and cooling a home ranks as the top energy consumer in nearly everyone’s home, and it’s often the home’s most misunderstood appliance. These questions and answers cover the most important aspects of HVAC systems.

How do I choose the right air filter?

The owner’s manual or your HVAC contractor can tell you the best filter to use for your equipment. A filter that’s too dense will actually harm your system, so before upgrading, look for the maximum MERV (minimum efficiency reporting value) rating your system can handle. Using too porous a filter will deposit smaller particles of dust inside the air handler and ductwork, harming the system. Also consider family health issues and indoor pets when choosing filters.

What kind of maintenance should I do?

Checking and changing the air filter is crucial to avoid high energy costs and premature breakdowns. The outdoor condenser for the air conditioner or heat pump should be cleaned periodically to remove the dust from the condensing coil. Keep all debris and objects away from the condensing unit, since they can slow the air flowing over the coil. Once or twice a year, ask your HVAC contractor to tune up your HVAC system. It works hard, especially during the summer, and needs thorough cleaning, adjusting and lubrication to run most efficiently and dependably.

Does a larger system save energy?

A system that’s larger than you need will actually drive up energy use. It also decreases comfort and tends to break down faster. Before installing a new system, ask the contractor to conduct a load calculation using Manual J software. Properly sizing the system also helps with humidity control here in the South.

Does more efficient HVAC equipment pay for itself?

In this climate, it makes sense to invest in high efficiency cooling equipment since the cooling season is long and intense, and lower energy costs offset the higher cost of the new system. A professional sales associate will ask all the right questions to provide you with the best options for your personal situation.

Maintaining your HVAC system and working with a trusted contractor will help you get the most from your equipment. For more information, contact Powers Heating & Air, providing top-notch HVAC services for Peachtree City, Newnan, Sharpsburg, Senoia, Tyrone and Fayetteville, Georgia homeowners.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Peachtree City, Georgia and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Guide or call us at 770-487-2040.

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