Making the right HVAC upgrades at the right time delivers a variety of benefits for the homeowner. Certain targeted improvements can enhance indoor comfort and make the home environment healthier, as well as boost system energy efficiency and lower monthly cooling or heating costs. If you’re planning to put your home up for sale, making changes now can motivate buyers and attract higher offers. Here are some HVAC upgrades to enhance your quality of life — not to mention the value of your home.
- Supplement attic insulation. Adding more insulation in the attic resists heat gain in summer and heat loss in winter. This lowers HVAC operating costs and reduces system wear and tear, making the home more comfortable in all seasons. The performance of common fiberglass and cellulose attic insulation can be augmented simply by adding new material atop the existing layer.
- Repair leaky ducts. As time passes, residential ductwork often leaks, spilling conditioned air into unconditioned zones like the attic or crawl space. Ductwork in most houses that are more than 10 years old leaks cooled and heated air at a rate as high as 25% or more, boosting monthly operating costs and decreasing the home’s comfort level year-round. A qualified HVAC contractor can test the ductwork to quantify the extent of leakage, then suggest effective options for sealing the ducts.
- Replace system components. Central air conditioners have an expected service life averaging around 15 years, while gas-fired furnaces typically last about 20 years. If the AC’s more than 10 years old or the furnace is older than 15, it may be better to replace it now, rather than wait for major malfunctions or expensive repairs (often occurring at the least-convenient time.) Upgrading cooling and heating units provides improved efficiency and lower operating costs from day one. New central cooling and heating components are also an important selling point when prospective buyers appreciate the reliability and efficiency of new components, as well as a valid warranty.
For more information about HVAC upgrades to enhance your home’s comfort level as well as its market value, contact Hansberger Refrigeration and Electric Company.