| Hot topic:
Make sure HVAC keeps its cool
Choosing a qualified contractor
When replacing or upgrading your HVAC system, it's important to use a qualified
professional. Here are some tips that can help you pick the right pro:
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Picking an HVAC pro: | |
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| 1. | Check
with your local municipality regarding any necessary licenses, certifications
and insurance coverage required in your area. Contractors should be able to prove
that they satisfy these requirements. | | 2. | Consult
with friends and neighbors and ask them to recommend contractors they have used
with positive results. | | 3. | Get
a written estimate and/or proposal detailing the work involved and the cost before
the contractor begins. | | 4. | Ask
about their warranties and service availability. These systems have a knack for
breaking down at the worst possible times, and you want someone who will be available
for emergency repairs. | | 5. | Don't
decide based on price alone. The cheapest workers aren't always the best. |
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Choosing a heat
source
If you do need to replace your current heating system, this
may be a good time to reevaluate your type of heating source and consider whether
you should switch. Here are some factors to consider:
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Evaluate your heating source: | |
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| 1. | Cost:
The average gas or oil furnace costs $1,500 and up. Consider not only the cost
of the system itself, but also the ongoing cost of operation and the cost of the
required fuel. | | 2. | Personal
preference: Some people just like the "feel" of coal heat, while others
swear by electric. This really just depends on your own individual tastes. |
| 3. | Convenience:
Natural gas or electric are often seen as the most convenient. They are constantly
"at the ready" (assuming you've paid your bill, of course). Unlike oil and coal,
there is no need to wait for a delivery, or worry about running out. |
| 4. | Ventilation:
All heating sources need some kind of ventilation. Some draw the necessary air
from inside the home, while others require a vent to the outdoors. | |
Tip: When it comes to heating and cooling systems, bigger
isn't necessarily better. While a system that is too small won't quite get the
job done, a system that is too big can also cause problems by running inefficiently
and costing you more than necessary. |
