Older space conditioning systems (more than 10 years old) are often unreliable and much less efficient than a modern system. When it’s time for a new replacement, choosing one of the correct size (heating and/or cooling output) is critical to getting the best efficiency, comfort, and lowest maintenance and operating costs over the life of [...]
Posts from ‘January, 2010’
Switching Electric Resistance or Steam Heating to Hot Water Heating
Electric resistance heating, also called electric baseboard heating, is the cheapest to install and the most expensive to operate, as it is the least efficient source of heat. Unfortunately, upgrading to ducted systems, as discussed below, will involve a significant expense for ducting. Another option is to switch to a hot water baseboard system. Baseboard [...]
Properly install your new heating or cooling systems is essential
Even the most energy-efficient heating and cooling system will fail to save you money if it is installed incorrectly or improperly adjusted. Here are some further tips on choosing contractors: Ask neighbors and friends if they have worked with a contractor they would recommend Focus on local companies Look for licensed, insured contractors Ask about [...]
Selecting and Replacing Heating and Cooling Systems
When replacing an existing heating and cooling system, it’s important to first consider the limitations imposed by your current system. Of course, it is possible to install virtually any heating and cooling system in any house, but the cost and aesthetic impacts may be unacceptable for you. When selecting a heating and cooling system for [...]