HVAC technicians or contractors specialize in heating systems, air duct cleaning and insulation, and cooling services for homes and other buildings. They also install thermostats and other home automation equipment. They may also offer refrigeration supplies.
When buying an AC system, look for a NATE badge, which is proof that the dealer is qualified to perform installations and help you save money on energy costs.
Heating and air conditioning systems
HVAC equipment keeps industrial, commercial and residential buildings properly heated, cooled and ventilated. HVAC systems use heat pumps or furnaces to warm air in the winter and fans and air conditioners to cool it in the summer. Other components in an HVAC system include air filters that remove dust, spores and other airborne impurities to improve indoor air quality, and ventilation systems that circulate the conditioned air throughout buildings. Some systems use smart thermostats connected to a home Wi-Fi network and compatible devices like refrigerators, washers and dryers to automatically make adjustments on your schedule and save energy.
Your HVAC dealer should offer the best systems and parts, plus excellent customer service to help you get the most from your investment. Look for dealers that have earned the Trane Comfort Specialist badge, which highlights their commitment to installing systems correctly and ensuring total customer satisfaction. Also, check for NATE certification, which indicates the dealer has been trained and tested to provide high-quality service.
Thermostats
Thermostats control your home’s HVAC system. They’re available in a variety of styles and with different features, so it’s important to find one that fits your home and lifestyle. You can also find programmable and smart thermostats that offer more precise control of your energy usage and savings potential. Smart thermostats, popularized by the Nest brand, learn your heating and cooling habits through geofencing and other software cues to create a schedule that saves you money with no manual programming.
Many modern thermostats are digital and have bright displays, but you can also still find the iconic round thermostat with a dial. Regardless of style, today’s thermostats are more precise than older models, which can help you save on your energy bill by running less frequently and only when needed. They’re also more customizable, with options to set different temperatures for different times of day. Some are Wi-Fi enabled and can be controlled from your smartphone or tablet.
Filters
The HVAC filter in your home protects the blower fan and other components of the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system from dust and other particles. It is inserted into a slot in your return air duct, where it prevents these particles from entering the system and circulating throughout the house.
There are a variety of filters available on the market, and your choice depends on your goal for your home’s indoor air quality. If you want a simple filter that is cost-effective and disposable, consider spun fiberglass filters. These are one of the least expensive types on the market and are very good at catching late debris, like lint.
Electrostatic filters use cotton and paper fibers to create static and act as a magnet for dust and other particles, improving indoor air quality. They can be reusable but require regular cleaning and washing to keep them clean. These filters are typically MERV 4 and higher, and some come with carbon filtration for odor removal. Hvac store near me