What Are We Doing to Protect You?    New Protocol for COVID-19

Replacement System Considerations

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 a new house, your options are generally much wider, although your builder or developer may place limitations on your choices.

For both new and existing homes, it's important to first maximize the energy efficiency of your home. This is the most cost-effective means of keeping your home comfortable, no matter what climate you live in. After doing so, be sure to do what you can to make use of passive solar heating in your home and consider whether ventilation can keep your house cool on warm days, or if you really need artificial cooling. Only after exploring these topics should you decide on the type of system you want and work with a contractor to figure out the optimum size for it.

Even the most energy-efficient heating and cooling system will fail to save you money if it is installed incorrectly or improperly adjusted. To verify the qualifications of your heating and cooling contractor, ask if they have been certified by North American Technician Excellence, Inc. (NATE).

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 previous experience
  • Check references
  • Inquire with the Better Business Bureau.

Use these methods to select several contractors, then get at least three detailed, written bids. Each bid should include an agreement to provide written calculations (listing the procedures and standards that will be followed), equipment and installation warranties, a payment schedule, and a firm completion date. Avoid making your decision solely on the basis of price. The quality of the installation should be your highest priority, because quality will determine energy cost, comfort, and durability.


U.S. Department of Energy - Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy

Send Us an Email
 

Contact Info
 
Address:    876 Old Route 17
Harris, NY 12742
Phone:       (845) 794-7780
Hours:        Mon - Fri: 7AM to 4:30PM
Ask-A-Tech  
Send an Email  
Payment Options
Payment Options
 
For Plumbing in Bethel NY, we accept most major credit cards.
 
Find out ways to save energy and money with Smalls Plumbing Heating & AC Furnace repair service in Bethel NY
Leave the maintenance stress to our technicians on your next Plumbing service in Rock Hill NY
 
We accept Visa, Mastercard, and Discover, personal checks and cash. We also have financing options available
Financing  
Schedule Service  
Home   |   Email Us   |   Schedule Service   |   Get a Quote   |   Ask a Tech   |   Maintenance   |   Employment   |   Search Site