Is It Wise to Purchase a Full HVAC System Online?

These days, you can buy anything, from your next meal to your next car, with the touch of a button. What about an HVAC system, though? Is an online HVAC purchase worthwhile? Can you get the same value as you would if you purchased from a contractor? Here's what you need to know about making an online HVAC purchase.

Pros of an Online HVAC Purchase

The advantage of buying your home-comfort system online is price. Buying an AC or furnace from an HVAC contractor costs more than purchasing one online. Some even say HVAC contractors inflate their prices because people would rather pay a markup than get the system themselves. The reality, though, is a bit more complicated.

Cons of an Online HVAC Purchase

The real reason why online purchases are cheaper is because you get what you pay for, which is much less than what you actually need. The unit itself is just the beginning. You need someone to install it. HVAC installation isn't a DIY job. It's an intricate process that requires certification. Many HVAC contractors will only install systems bought through them, as they don't want to be held responsible for the problems that arise when it turns out you've bought the wrong equipment online.

Buying the wrong equipment is likely. That's because you need to make sure the system is the correct size for your home. HVAC contractors use a guide called Manual J to calculate the right-size HVAC system to meet your home's heating and cooling needs. It's possible to calculate it yourself, but it's much better to leave it to someone who has the experience.

Finally, an online HVAC purchase won't come with a legitimate warranty. Manufacturers don't guarantee systems bought from websites. If the unit does have a warranty, it's most likely a scam. It's better for everyone if you go through a legitimate HVAC contractor to guarantee the right size, the best installation, and a full warranty for your system.

Instead of an online HVAC purchase, contact us at Air Assurance for purchase, sizing, and installation. We proudly serve the Broken Arrow area's home-comfort needs.

When Is the Best Time to Buy a New HVAC System?

HVAC equipment is built to last for many years, but like all things, it can't last forever. The trick is knowing when buying a new HVAC system is the right thing to do. To help you out, here are signs to look for that you may need a new system in your home:

Warm or Hot Air Is Coming Out

When an air conditioner begins to blow warm or hot air, most people would consider this to be the biggest indication that replacement is necessary. Your best bet is to schedule an appointment with an HVAC technician to see whether repair or replacement is in order.

The Equipment Has Passed the 10-Year Mark

Most HVAC equipment will last at least a full decade or longer, especially if you get it checked by an HVAC professional each year. If the system is more than 10 years old and is giving you problems, then pay attention to how it's operating, because it might be time to retire it.

Repairs Have Become Frequent

Getting your air conditioner repaired is something that every homeowner is likely to do at some point, but this shouldn't become an annual ritual. If your repairs have become frequent, it's definitely in your best interest to ditch your current system and install a new one.

Indoor Air Quality Has Diminished

Your home's indoor air quality is an important component to keeping your family and friends healthy. If anyone has been experiencing respiratory issues and a technician tells you that your equipment is likely to blame, then replacement may be the most reasonable course of action.

You Hear Odd Noises or Sounds

Minor noises and sounds typically aren't a big deal, but if the problem is severe, this is definitely something that you should be concerned about. Small problems may indicate an issue with one of the system's components, but larger issues most likely mean that replacement is imminent.

Buying a new HVAC system can be very beneficial for your home. If you need more expert advice on this or any other comfort-related subject, contact the professionals at Air Assurance. We've been serving the needs of Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas for more than 30 years.

What Is a Manual J Load Calculation?

Some HVAC terms are easy to understand while others may leave you scratching your head. For many Broken Arrow area homeowners, Manual J load calculation is definitely in the latter category. Not only is it the first step towards choosing the right HVAC system for your home, but it’s also an essential step.

Developed by the Air Conditioning Contractors of America, Manual J load calculation offers homeowners and contractors a way to properly size up a home’s HVAC needs and design an HVAC system that offers the best performance and efficiency match.

How Manual J Benefits Your Home

Different homes have different heating and cooling requirements and it’s easy to choose an HVAC unit that’s ill-equipped to handle your home. Depending on the age-old “rule of thumb” often results in an HVAC system that’s either underpowered or overpowered for the given environment. The former can make your home unbearable during the summer while the latter wastes energy while increasing overall discomfort.

Manual J lets contractors choose the right HVAC system by calculating a home’s precise heating and cooling needs. A typical Manual J calculation takes many of the following factors into account:

• Square footage

• Building materials

• Location and directional orientation

• Heat gain and loss throughout the entire home

• Current HVAC system size and type

• Insulation levels

• Window types

• Duct leakage

Using specially designed software, contractors can recommend an HVAC system that provides optimal comfort without using too much energy or wearing out early. Manual J load calculations are commonly done in conjunction with other ACCA design protocols, including Manual S equipment selection and Manual D ductwork design.

No HVAC system replacement should start without a Manual J load calculation. Contact Air Assurance today and let us take care of your heating and cooling needs, using the latest in modern HVAC technology.

5 New Year's Resolutions for Your Home's HVAC System

It's traditional to make resolutions at the start of a new year, so now is the perfect time to plan some strategic changes that can help you save money and enjoy a healthier, more comfortable home. Here are five HVAC resolutions that can help lower your energy bills, increase your comfort level and improve the quality of the air your family breathes all year long.

1. Schedule semi-annual HVAC system maintenance. Keeping your HVAC system well maintained with spring air conditioner and fall furnace tuneups not only improves energy efficiency, but also helps prevent costly breakdowns and prolongs the equipment's service life.

2. Inspect and change the air filter monthly. A dirty filter restricts adequate airflow through the HVAC system, which makes the equipment work harder and erodes efficiency. A clogged filter also lets debris build up inside the system, which will eventually cause breakdowns and premature component failures.

3. Use the thermostat wisely. Make sure you take full advantage of the potential energy savings offered by your programmable thermostat in 2016 by scheduling daily temperature setbacks. Programming in automatic eight-hour setbacks while you're sleeping or away from home can reduce your energy consumption by 1 percent for every single-degree temperature change.

4. Seal and insulate the ductwork. Leaky, uninsulated ducts can rob you of up to a third of your HVAC system's output and significantly increase your energy bills. Having an HVAC professional seal the air ducts not only saves you money, it prevents unhealthy contaminants from being drawn in from unfinished areas like the attic, crawl space and garage.

5. Boost air quality by adding a filtration unit. Replacing the HVAC air filter on a regular basis can protect your equipment, but this type of filter isn't designed to remove the microscopic pollutants that can adversely affect your family's health. To help everyone in the household breathe easier in the new year, talk to an experienced professional about installing an air purifier or air cleaner on the HVAC system.

For expert help putting New Year's HVAC resolutions into effect in your Broken Arrow home, contact us at Air Assurance today.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Credit/Copyright Attribution: “ufuk sezgen/Shutterstock”