Is your HVAC system ready for summer? Unless you’re lucky, that question is probably going to require some maintenance or repairs to fully answer. But the more important question might be, are you ready for your HVAC system?
If you’re still using the system you installed 30 years ago when your first child was born, the odds are good that you’re not. HVAC technology has come a long way since then. Programmable and smart thermostats, variable-speed compressors, and other energy-efficient technologies are saving you money and reducing your carbon footprint.
Hiring an HVAC contractor may feel like a gamble when you’re facing a broken air conditioner or furnace, but taking care of your equipment is an investment worth more of your time. The right provider should ensure your system is operating efficiently all year round, not just popping by when something breaks.
Qualifications are everything.
The best way to separate serious technicians from the HVAC rookies is to ask about their qualifications. Reputable companies have technicians who are certified by industry organizations like NATE (North American Technician Excellence) or ACCA. But don’t just take their word for it; ask to see their credentials and licensing.
Salmon HVAC invests in ongoing technician training so they’re up to date on the latest HVAC technology and know how to service and repair it properly. Your HVAC system isn’t your parents’ HVAC system. Smart thermostats, variable-speed compressors, high-efficiency heat pumps, and other modern equipment need trained technicians to maintain and repair them.
Emergency Service
A major system failure is almost never convenient. Your air conditioner always quits on the hottest day of summer. Your furnace gives up the ghost on the coldest night of winter. Emergency service is one thing, but the ability to follow through and get someone on the phone after hours is another. If you’re looking for HVAC companies, ask about emergency service availability and call each to verify.
A fast, high-pressure service call might patch your problem in the short term, but if your HVAC system has underlying issues, a quality technician will explain what’s wrong and why. Proper system maintenance is part of the equation, but a qualified tech will also make sure you’re up to speed on how to avoid the same issue in the future. Trust us; it’s worth the extra time.
The Good and the Bad
HVAC horror stories are nothing new. Most homeowners can regale you with tales of missed appointments, miscommunication, and malfunctioning systems. These don’t have to be your experience with the right company. Hearing the opposite from satisfied customers isn’t uncommon either.
There are people who have had their heating systems fixed within hours of an unexpected breakdown during a winter storm. Other folks have their technician return after a service call to perform a comprehensive system check to ensure no underlying or future issues. These are the experiences that set service above and beyond from one company to the next.
Technology Saves the Day
Smart home technology has changed the game when it comes to HVAC systems. Thermostats learn your schedule, adjust automatically and even send maintenance reminders directly to your phone. Some models can even sense when you’re on the way home and start adjusting the temperature before you arrive. This isn’t the Jetsons; it’s just how technology has improved.
Energy efficiency is also a hot topic in the HVAC industry. New systems with variable-speed compressors, for example, automatically adjust their output based on demand rather than operating at full power all the time. Equipment with the Energy Star label has met strict efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and the savings are noticeable on your monthly utility bills. New high-efficiency HVAC systems can use up to 30% less energy than older models. Talk about putting money back in your pocket.
The Cost of Comfort
Let’s be honest: no one likes to talk about money, but if we’re talking about HVAC service, it’s time to face facts. Maintenance is around $100 to $200. Repairs are another $150 to $600 depending on the system and the problem. And new installations are $3,000 to $10,000 or more. These are not small numbers.
On the bright side, most HVAC companies offer financing options. Monthly payment plans, low- or zero-interest promotional financing, and other terms make large purchases more accessible. Salmon HVAC works with homeowners to find the right options for their budgets and comfort.
Going Green
Sustainability is no longer a buzzword; it’s a way of life. From refrigerants with less environmental impact to energy-efficient models that cut energy costs and your carbon footprint, modern HVAC systems are designed with the future in mind. Regular maintenance is also critical; a well-tuned system is more efficient and lasts longer.
Simple steps like programmable thermostats or changing filters regularly make a difference. A study by the U.S. Department of Energy found that high-efficiency furnaces could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by more than 25% compared to standard models. Saving money and doing right by the planet. Win-win.
Comfortable should not be complicated. Find a company with trained technicians, reliable service and transparent communication. Everything else should fall into place.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: How often should I schedule HVAC maintenance?
A: Twice a year is best—once before cooling season and again before heating season.
Q: What is the typical lifespan of an HVAC system?
A: Air conditioners and heat pumps usually last 15-20 years; furnaces can last 20-25 years. If your system is getting close to these ages and requires frequent repairs, it might be more cost-effective to replace than to continue repairing.
Q: Why are my energy bills suddenly higher?
A: Dirty filters, leaking ductwork, an aging system, or a thermostat that needs recalibrating are all possible culprits. A professional inspection can determine the cause.
Q: Should I repair or replace my HVAC system?
A: As a general rule, if repair costs are greater than half the cost of a new system, and the equipment is more than 10 years old, replacement is usually the more financially sound option. Newer systems are also much more energy efficient.