Understand, maintain, and upgrade your heating, cooling, and ventilation
HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. A properly functioning HVAC system maintains comfortable temperatures throughout your home year-round, removes humidity, and circulates fresh air. For most homeowners, HVAC represents one of the largest and most important systems in their property.
Furnaces and heat pumps warm your home during cold months. Modern systems are increasingly energy-efficient, with high AFUE ratings indicating better performance.
Fresh air intake and exhaust systems manage indoor air quality. Proper ventilation removes moisture, odors, and indoor pollutants while replacing stale air.
Cooling systems keep your home comfortable during summer. Air conditioners work with furnaces to maintain year-round comfort through a single duct system.
These three components work together in an integrated system. The thermostat controls when heating or cooling activates, while ductwork distributes conditioned air.
The most common residential HVAC type. A furnace heats air, and an air conditioner cools it. A blower pushes air through ductwork to every room.
Modern alternatives that heat AND cool by transferring heat rather than generating it. Air-source heat pumps are common; ground-source models are more efficient but expensive.
Individual units mounted in each room, connected to an outdoor compressor. No ductwork required, offering precise temperature control per zone.
Heats homes through warm surfaces (floors, walls, or radiant panels) rather than forced air. Often paired with in-wall AC units for cooling.
Replace your furnace/AC filter every 1-3 months (more often with pets or allergies). Clogged filters reduce efficiency and strain your system. Mark your calendar and set phone reminders.
Schedule annual maintenance before heating season (fall) and cooling season (spring). Technicians check refrigerant levels, clean coils, and inspect components.
Every 3-5 years, consider professional duct cleaning, especially if you notice dust buildup or have allergy concerns. This improves air quality and system efficiency.
Use a programmable or smart thermostat to adjust temperatures when home and away. This can save 10-15% on heating and cooling costs annually.
Keep AC outdoor units clear of leaves and debris. During fall and winter, cover AC units to protect from weather damage while not obstructing heat pump operation.
First steps: Check thermostat batteries, verify temperature setting is correct, reset circuit breaker, check that furnace pilot light is on. If none work, call a professional immediately.
Some rooms stay too hot or cold. Solutions: Adjust vents to balance airflow, check for leaking ductwork, ensure thermostat sensor isn't blocked, or install a zoning system for precise room control.
Banging, rattling, or squealing sounds indicate problems. Don't ignore these - they often signal mechanical issues. Buzzing AC units, whistling ducts, or grinding furnace sounds require professional diagnosis.
Inefficient HVAC systems waste money. If your system is over 15 years old, replacement with an ENERGY STAR model saves 15-20% annually. Check air filter cleanliness first.
Low refrigerant indicates leaks (AC units have sealed refrigerant systems). Signs include reduced cooling, ice on outdoor unit, or hissing sounds. This requires immediate professional service.
Replacing a 20-year-old furnace (78% AFUE) with ENERGY STAR model (95% AFUE) typically saves $100-200 monthly during winter. A $5,000-7,000 system pays for itself in 3-5 years.
Professional HVAC technicians can diagnose issues quickly, make repairs safely, and provide upgrade recommendations based on your specific situation and budget.