Baltimore HVAC Contractors – A recent survey published by ACHR News shows that most homeowners replacing their HVAC equipment are going for the mid-range in efficiency ratings. The survey said 46 percent of the respondents purchased mid-level products with a SEER rating of 14-18 and a 90 percent AFUE. SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, is primarily related to the efficiency of air conditioners. The higher the number, the more efficiently the unit uses power.
AFUE refers to Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency, and it measures the amount of heat delivered to your home vs. the amount of fuel you must supply to the furnace. The minimum set by the EPA is 78 percent.
Products with a SEER of 13 and AFUE of 80 percent, a low-level efficiency, were purchased by 34 percent of the survey respondents, and 20 percent of respondents bought high-end products with a 20+ SEER and 95+ percent AFUE. The survey results are not surprising. Some manufacturers offer rebates for purchasing a unit with a 15 or higher SEER, which would incentivize buying at the mid-range.
Now that summer is coming, more attention may be paid to air conditioning, but remember that your system spends three times as many hours heating as cooling in the Maryland seasons.
Paying attention to the efficiency of the heat pump is essential. In addition, a cold winter like Marylanders had this year requires more work from the heat pump. It works harder all around – in the winter months, the system is trying to make up an average 50-60-degree difference if you keep your thermostat at 68 degrees. It’s about 20 degrees in the summer if the AC is 75 degrees.
If you are replacing your HVAC system, don’t be lulled into a false sense of environmentalism by looking only at the SEER number. Evaluate the heat pump efficiency and buy the best you can afford.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Hiring an HVAC Contractor:
1) Why do I need to hire an HVAC contractor?
Hiring an HVAC contractor is essential to ensure that your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems are installed, repaired, or maintained correctly and safely. They have the expertise and experience to handle complex HVAC tasks effectively.
2) What qualifications should I look for in an HVAC contractor?
Look for an HVAC contractor licensed, insured, and certified by relevant authorities. Additionally, check their experience, customer reviews, and reputation in the industry.
3) Is it necessary to get multiple quotes from different HVAC contractors?
While it’s not mandatory, obtaining multiple quotes from different HVAC contractors allows you to compare pricing, services offered, and warranties. This can help you make an informed decision and find the best fit for your needs.
4) How can I check if an HVAC contractor is reputable?
You can check an HVAC contractor’s reputation by reading online reviews and testimonials from previous customers. Additionally, check if they have any complaints or negative feedback with the Better Business Bureau or other consumer protection agencies.
5) Do HVAC contractors offer warranties for their work?
Many reputable HVAC contractors offer warranties for their installation and repair work. Ask about the warranty details, including the duration and what it covers.
6) Are HVAC contractors required to have insurance?
Yes, HVAC contractors should have liability insurance and worker’s compensation insurance to protect you and their employees in case of accidents or damages during the job.
7) How do I know if an HVAC contractor is knowledgeable about energy-efficient systems?
You can ask the HVAC contractor about their experience with energy-efficient systems, certifications related to energy efficiency, and their approach to improving energy efficiency in HVAC installations and repairs.
8) Can I ask for references from past customers?
Absolutely. Request references from past customers, and don’t hesitate to contact them to inquire about their experiences with the HVAC contractor’s services.
9) Should I hire the HVAC contractor with the lowest price?
While cost is a significant factor, it shouldn’t be the sole determinant. Consider the contractor’s reputation, experience, and the quality of their work. Sometimes, choosing the cheapest option might lead to subpar workmanship and costly issues later.
10) What certifications should an HVAC contractor have?
Look for HVAC contractors with certifications from organizations like North American Technician Excellence (NATE) or the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA). These certifications demonstrate their competence and commitment to industry standards.
11) Will the HVAC contractor conduct a load calculation for my home?
A reputable HVAC contractor should perform a load calculation to determine the appropriate size and capacity of the HVAC system for your home. Oversized or undersized systems can lead to inefficiency and comfort issues.
12) Is signing a written contract with the HVAC contractor necessary?
Yes, always sign a written contract with the HVAC contractor. The contract should include details about the scope of work, timelines, costs, payment terms, warranties, and any other relevant terms and conditions.
13) Can the HVAC contractor provide options for energy-efficient systems?
A good HVAC contractor should be able to offer you options for energy-efficient systems that suit your budget and needs. They can also advise on available incentives or rebates for energy-efficient upgrades.
14) How long does an HVAC installation or repair usually take?
The HVAC installation or repair duration can vary depending on the job’s complexity. A straightforward installation may take a few days, while a significant repair could take several hours.
15) What should I do if I have a problem with the HVAC contractor’s work?
If you have an issue with the HVAC contractor’s work, contact them immediately to discuss the problem. Reputable contractors will address your concerns promptly and work to resolve any issues to your satisfaction.
Always take the time to research and choose a reputable HVAC contractor to ensure that your HVAC systems are in good hands and operate efficiently and reliably.
