Terri Ramsey Beavers Trane air conditioning systems and units (HVAC) must be carefully considered and assessed prior to purchase; their effect can have far reaching ramifications in any home and are an investment worth making.
Energy Star
Trane systems offer more than just heat and cool in homes; they also regulate air quality, increase indoor comfort and provide fresh air to help combat odors. From ductless systems to central AC/heat pump/boiler units and boilers, these machines play an integral role in heating/cooling/ventilating spaces as well as ventilating to ensure a constant supply of fresh air for maximum odor-fighting capacity.
As part of your home purchase process, be sure to verify whether its HVAC unit meets energy-efficiency criteria by looking for its Energy Star designation. This government-backed initiative helps consumers easily compare energy-saving equipment brands.
Older HVAC units tend to be less efficient than newer models, so check both indoor and outdoor units’ serial numbers to gauge their age. Also ask the seller if you can access maintenance records so you can determine how often your HVAC unit has been serviced regularly.
Efficiency
An effective system is integral to any successful building or office. This system must meet the individual needs of its occupants, such as eliminating volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from ventilation air. While specialty filters like permanganate oxidizers or activated charcoal filters exist for gas removal, due to cost and maintenance issues these are rarely utilized in regular occupancy buildings or schools.
Ascertain if the refrigerator contains refrigerants that could harm the environment, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) or hydro chlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs). CFCs deplete protective ozone layer levels in the atmosphere and have been banned by the Environmental Protection Agency.
Energy Value
When assessing the energy value of a system, there are a number of key considerations that must be considered. First and foremost is insulation – ensure it has been installed according to current standards; improper insulation installation can create drafts which force HVAC units to work harder, leading to higher utility bills and eventually leading to replacement costs.
Keep the size of the system in mind when making your purchase decision. A system that’s too large will waste energy, cycling on and off often and decreasing efficiency. Speak with A Columbus Trane HVAC dealer, engineer or HVAC contractor about determining the optimum system size required for your home. They will use a formula based on factors such as square footage, insulation level and climate conditions when using this process to find a perfect match – this investment will pay dividends!
Comfort
Your system is designed to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home, but its effectiveness depends heavily on the ductwork and insulation in it. Poorly sized ductwork with tight turns or long runs reduces overall efficiency of your system and results in uneven heating/cooling across your space.
Your furnace’s annual fuel utilization efficiency rating (AFUE) can have an enormous effect on its overall efficiency; opting for one with higher AFUE will save money on heating costs.
Find a system with variable fan speed and an even air flow, creating variable fan speed to reduce energy consumption while improving indoor air quality by decreasing dust and debris infiltration. Zoned control systems offer added comfort and efficiency by only heating or cooling rooms when necessary.
Convenience
Technology for HVAC equipment in homes today has advanced quickly, becoming more sophisticated than what was available even just a few years ago. Modern systems not only run more efficiently and durable, but can be controlled remotely via a programmable thermostat; some even monitor performance to provide alerts when maintenance is required.
As a general guideline laid out here (for window units), it is advisable to match your system capacity to the square footage of your home. A system that is too large will cycle on and off frequently, leading to excessive wear on components; an undersized system may struggle to properly heat or cool your entire dwelling.
Inspect your home’s ductwork and vents regularly for signs of poor airflow, such as blocked vents, too restrictive filters, or an improperly sized air conditioner or furnace. Also take note of temperatures and moisture levels across each room so as to make sure your system can maintain consistent temperatures throughout.
Warranty
Warranty coverage on HVAC purchases (https://www.thisoldhouse.com/home-finances/reviews/best-home-warranty-for-hvac) should never be viewed as extraneous — in fact, warranties should often be considered an investment. While manufacturer equipment warranties should always be considered before selecting an HVAC contractor.
Labor warranties differ among HVAC providers, so be sure to ask for details when getting quotes. An extended labor warranty can provide invaluable peace of mind should something go amiss after installation of equipment has taken place.
An HVAC ductwork inspection is also critical, as it provides valuable insights into a home’s energy efficiency and comfort. Keep an eye out for mold or moisture growth as well as any leakage from insulated ducts; any of these issues could make heating/cooling systems work harder while decreasing their lifespan.