You are interested in purchasing a new heating system for your home; where do you go from there? Before any preparation begins, you must decide what kind of heating system you would like installed in your home. Many homeowners want to just upgrade their boiler or furnace to a more efficient version, while others are searching to get savings on a completely different system. When looking at heating units, consider your overall needs and home in general.
Insulation and Sealing is Essential Before Your New Heating System is Installed
Insulating your home is key when preparing your home for a new heating system. You also must seal all leaks that are present. This will assist you in saving on heating bills. If your home is not insulated properly, you will not be able to get the most out of your new highly efficient system.
Sealing your home is simple. You must seal the outer walls, windows, floors, and doors to improve energy efficiency, cost-effectiveness, as well as comfort in your home. Drafts and air leaks are easy to find because you can feel them, especially around windows and doors. The more difficult problems to detect are holes hidden in basements, attics, and crawlspaces. You can seal these leakages with weather stripping, spray foam, or caulk. This will have a significant effect on reducing energy bills and improving your overall comfort level. There is often concern by homeowners about sealing the house too tightly. In most older homes, this should not be of concern. For good indoor air quality, a certain level of fresh air is needed.
Insulation is a necessity for all homes because it keeps your house cool in the summer, and warm in the winter. Rigid foam board, spray foam, and fiberglass are common kinds of insulation. Each type of insulation can provide both lower energy costs and comfort during the hottest and coldest times of the year when properly installed with air sealing. For the most significant savings, place insulation in the attic. An easy way to see if you require additional insulate is to inspect the uncovered floor of your attic. You most likely need more insulation if the insulate is level with or below the floor joints.
To Fully Benefit from Your New Heating System, Clean Out Your Air/Heating Vents
The vents in your home attract everything from dust to pet dander. The general air quality in your home is affected by the cleanliness of your vents. To achieve the full benefit of your new (or newly upgraded) heating system, it is a must that the heat can flow through clean air ducts and vents.
- To properly cleanse them, first dust with a traditional duster or broom. You can also wipe the grates with a damp cloth.
- Next, unscrew the vent covers and set them to the side. Using a crevice attachment or dust brush, vacuum the air ducts. This method will suck out any debris or dust that had settled in the ducts.
- Reattach the vent covers, assuring they are screwed on tightly. It may be helpful to vacuum the area around your vents to catch any dust that has.
- In addition, be sure to change the air filters in your new furnace routinely. This keeps dust and debris away from the main source.
Heat Source Mechanical offers inspection of ductwork and heating systems. At the time of the inspection, our Comfort Consultant can give you a quote and answer any of your questions and
concerns. If you have a family member that is plagued by asthma or allergies, call today to set up an appointment!
