If you live in San Francisco, CA, or elsewhere in the Bay Area, you may wonder which type of AC system is best for your home. One popular choice for many homeowners is a ductless mini-split AC. Like any other home comfort system, there are several important factors to consider before making the switch. The experts at Trio Heating, Air, and Plumbing have compiled some helpful ductless mini-split pros and cons to help you determine if this system is the right choice for you.

What Is a Ductless Mini-Split System?

A ductless mini-split system is just as the name implies: a ductless HVAC system that does not require any ductwork to operate. How does a ductless mini-split work? These home comfort systems include an outdoor unit (a condenser/compressor) and at least one indoor unit connected to refrigerant lines, usually run through a small hole in an exterior wall. This type of system is renowned for its exceptional energy efficiency and the ability to provide zoned cooling, offering greater control over temperature and energy usage in your home, making it one of the most energy-efficient air conditioning options available.

The Top Benefits of Mini-Split ACs

Here are some of the top mini-split AC benefits to consider:

• Excellent energy efficiency: Because mini-splits don’t use ductwork, they’re much more energy efficient and deliver treated air directly to individual rooms in your home, leading to significant energy savings.
• Zoned temperature control: Another of the many advantages of ductless mini-split systems is that they allow for individual temperature control in different rooms or zones, so you only need to heat or cool specific areas as needed.
• Quiet operation: These systems are well-known for having quiet operation that’s much less noisy than today’s traditional HVAC systems.
• Easy to install: A ductless mini-split installation is significantly easier than a traditional installation, as it requires no ductwork.
• Space-saving: Mini-split systems are compact and small, freeing up space and providing an effective home comfort system without occupying a lot of room.

Potential Drawbacks of Going Ductless

As you ponder whether a ductless AC is worth it, it’s important to consider the potential drawbacks of choosing this system for your home.

• Higher upfront costs: Mini-splits tend to be more expensive upfront to install than traditional HVAC systems, especially when multiple indoor units are chosen.
• Aesthetic concerns: Although they are small and compact, mini-splits are typically mounted on the wall or ceiling, which may not be a desirable feature for all customers to have inside their homes.
• Performance limits: A mini-split system works effectively in both warm and cold climates, but it may experience some performance limitations in areas with extreme temperature fluctuations.
• Maintenance needs: Routine ductless mini-split maintenance requires regular air filter changes for every indoor unit, and drainage issues may lead to serious water damage if not caught promptly.

Mini-Split vs. Central Air: Key Differences

Here are some of the key differences between a mini-split vs. central air:

• Central air provides whole-home cooling, while a mini-split system only treats the air in specific rooms where the indoor units are installed.
• Installing central air typically costs less money upfront, unless extensive ductwork repairs or new duct installations are required.
• Having a mini-split system reduces airflow issues and air loss, as a significant amount of air is lost through cracks, gaps, and improperly installed ductwork in traditional central air systems.

Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Choose a Ductless System

Before deciding if this is the right type of system for you, consider who should and shouldn’t choose a ductless system.

Who Should Choose Ductless

• People who live in smaller homes that don’t have a lot of square footage
• Those in older homes where installing new ductwork is required for traditional central air
• Homeowners who are concerned about energy efficiency and energy costs
• Anyone who prefers a quiet system that offers zoned heating and cooling control

Who Shouldn’t Choose Ductless

• People living in larger homes that require more consistent, whole-home cooling and heating
• Those who live in areas with extreme temperatures, and therefore need a more powerful system
• Homeowners who don’t like the idea of visible units in different rooms
• People who live in homes with existing ductwork and want to pay a lower upfront cost

Common Misconceptions About Ductless HVAC

There are a few common misconceptions about ductless HVAC systems. Some think they’re only suitable for small homes, but mini-splits work well if you use certain rooms more often and don’t mind visible units. Others believe they’re noisy or expensive to maintain, but they’re quieter than traditional systems and have fewer moving parts, leading to less frequent and less costly repairs.

Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings Over Time

The best ductless AC units should be appropriately sized for your home, have a high SEER rating, and be manufactured by a reliable brand. Installing a ductless mini-split system helps you save on energy and other home comfort costs over time.

• No duct losses: Ductless systems prevent energy loss caused by leaky ductwork in traditional HVAC setups.
• Zoned control: Cool or heat specific rooms as needed to reduce energy use.
• High efficiency: Mini-splits offer high SEER ratings for better energy performance.
• Lower long-term costs: Higher upfront costs are offset by monthly energy savings.

Talk to Trio Heating & Air for a Professional Recommendation

Trio Heating, Air, and Plumbing is a trusted HVAC expert in energy-efficient and modern AC solutions for your Greater San Francisco Bay Area home. Whether you want to upgrade your current system or you’re building a new home, we have a variety of options available to you. To get expert recommendations on whether a ductless mini-split is the right solution for your cooling and heating needs, contact us today!

To benefit from AC replacement, you must find the right AC unit for your home. It’s important to consult with an air conditioning service contractor. Whether your existing system is reaching the end of its life or is outdated, you have an opportunity to find a more energy-efficient system. However, ignoring important details or making a mistake can have costly consequences.

Finding the right AC unit requires knowing the size of the model you need. We’ll look at numerous factors related to air conditioner sizing and other variables to discuss with your HVAC contractor. 

Square Footage

Square footage isn’t the only size variable to consider when selecting an AC unit. Nonetheless, the square footage of individual rooms and your entire home is usually the first place to start. The larger your home, the more cooling capacity you need. Miscalculating capacity can mean getting too much or too little cool air and spending more on energy.

Ceiling Height

Ceiling heights aren’t included in square footage, but if your home has higher ceiling heights than average, it will require more power to be properly cooled. Ceiling height also influences air circulation. You’ll need a higher-capacity unit to counteract the accumulation of rising warmer air. Irregular airflow patterns caused by sloped or vaulted ceilings must also be considered. 

Number of Windows

It may seem less obvious, but windows have a big impact on an AC unit’s efficiency. If you have a lot of south- and west-facing windows, more sunlight causes higher heat gain, requiring a stronger AC. Other window-related AC sizing factors include:

• Number of Windows: More windows mean more opportunities for heat gain and air leakage.
• Age of Windows: Older windows tend to let more air seep in and are less insulated.
• Window Coverings: Blinds, curtains, and other coverings help windows be more efficient by blocking out sunlight.

Insulation

Insulation in walls, ceilings, and attics can affect AC efficiency. Each insulating material has an R-value; the higher the number, the greater a material’s thermal resistance (ability to prevent heat transfer). Replacing old materials or filling in poorly insulated gaps or spots with high R-value insulation can reduce energy consumption.

Climate

The climate conditions in your area determine how much cooling you need. A smaller air conditioner won’t perform well in soaring summer temperatures, and if your region sees cooler summers, a larger system may not be cost-effective. Nonetheless, you must consider the temperature range throughout the year, along with typical humidity levels.

About Calculating Cooling Capacity

The capacity of an air conditioner is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs). The larger your home, the more BTUs you’ll need, but the requirements vary. For example, a well-insulated, shaded room generally needs 25 to 30 BTUs per square foot, but rooms with average insulation and moderate sun exposure may need 30 to 35 BTUs per square foot. However, a brightly lit room with poor insulation can require 35 to 40 BTUs per square foot.

Therefore, capacity requirements can vary significantly. Other factors that influence BTU requirements include the number of occupants, lighting fixtures, and the presence of heat-generating appliances. For a novice, working all these variables in a calculation can be overwhelming.

An HVAC professional has an easier way to perform a load calculation and find the right AC for your home. They may use formulas to input specific numbers. Or, they can use load calculation software tools that further streamline the process. This means load calculations can take less time, but this doesn’t minimize their importance at all.

About Efficiency Ratings

Every air conditioning unit has an efficiency rating on its label. You can use this to compare units and predict how a system will operate under standard conditions. Energy efficiency ratings include:

• Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER): This is an air conditioner’s cooling efficiency throughout a typical cooling season. Higher SEER ACs cost more upfront but consume less electricity and can save money over time.
• Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER): By measuring a unit’s cooling capacity under standard conditions, its EER can estimate how it will perform during peak demand and predict how it will operate during extreme temperatures.

Finding the Right Type of AC Unit

Sizing, efficiency, and other factors are heavily considered. It’s also important to consider the best type of unit. If you have a small home or a smaller room to cool, a window unit is an option. Central air conditioning systems are often used to cool entire homes; they use ducts to distribute air throughout the space. 

However, a split unit is better suited for cooling a smaller space or individual room. More advanced solutions include heat pumps (provide both heating and cooling) that are even more efficient. Another option is a mini-split; it allows you to zone your home for different levels of heating or cooling in different locations.

Additional Considerations

An AC unit must fit in the available space. If you have a small home, you may have fewer options. Also, consider the HVAC equipment you have. Does it match the AC unit you want to install? Will the new AC and your ductwork be compatible? If your ducts aren’t the appropriate length and diameter, issues with air velocity and pressure drop can affect performance and efficiency. To avoid persistent issues, you may want to consider replacing your entire HVAC system.

Contact Trio Heating & Air

In our years of serving homeowners in and around The Greater San Francisco Bay Area, our licensed AC technicians have installed high-efficiency cooling systems tailored to each client’s needs. We use the highest-quality products and brands and guarantee the highest quality of work. During AC replacement, our team advises you on the ideal model for your home and will remove your old unit, install the new system, and test it. To schedule air conditioning installation in Santa Clara County or San Mateo County, call (415) 223-1647 today.

It’s no secret that furnace maintenance can save you money. An annual tune-up can improve efficiency and avoid major repairs and early replacement. But it’s not the only way to care for your furnace. Many DIY furnace maintenance steps are effective. We’ll look at simple ways you can maintain your heating system throughout the year and some more advanced tasks to take on if you’re comfortable.

1. Replace the Air Filter

The air filter traps contaminants such as dust and pollen to keep your HVAC system running smoothly. A dirty filter can restrict airflow and strain your furnace. The filter should be replaced every three months or whenever it’s dirty or clogged. When changing it, note the filter’s length, width, and depth (it’s usually printed on the side of the filter) or measure it, as you’ll need to install a filter of the same size. 

The filter slot should be where the return air duct connects to the furnace. This is usually on the side near the bottom. Open the door or panel covering the filter and remove the old one. When inserting the new filter, make sure the arrows on it point toward the furnace.

2. Change the Oil Filter

If you have an oil furnace, the oil filter prevents impurities from blocking the oil burner nozzle. A clogged nozzle can cause a misfire. The system will then shut down. Replacing the oil filter requires closing the oil valve, removing the dirty filter, and disposing of it in compliance with your area’s hazardous waste regulations. Then follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installing a new oil filter.

3. Keep the Exterior Clean

Dirt and dust on your furnace can get inside and make it inefficient. Cleaning outer surfaces is simple. You can use a damp cloth or a vacuum to clean the metal case. Clean the area around the unit too. 

There also shouldn’t be any clutter nearby, which can inhibit airflow or make it hazardous to work around your furnace. Remove boxes, tools, or toys. In addition, vacuum floor registers and then remove them to vacuum out duct connection points as well. This can improve efficiency and indoor air quality.

4. Clean the Air Registers

Air registers throughout your home tend to collect dust, lint, pet hair, and other debris. If a register is clogged, it can restrict airflow, similar to a blocked filter. Therefore, the furnace will work harder to maintain the set temperature, so maintenance isn’t limited to the unit itself or its immediate surroundings. All registers should be removed and cleaned with a high-power vacuum.

5. Check the Flue Pipe

The flue connects the furnace to its exhaust system. Remove any debris blocking it and look for cracks or other signs of damage. Any issues can cause harmful gases to leak into your home, including deadly carbon monoxide. Dirt or debris can be removed from the flue pipe by removing the access panel and using a brush or vacuum with an attachment. Reattach the panel when you’re done.

Inspect the outside of the flue pipe. If there are small holes, they can be patched temporarily with foil tape. But if there are larger areas of damage or corrosion, call a professional to repair or replace the flue.

6. Clean the Furnace Drain Pipes

The condensate lines of a high-efficiency furnace remove excess moisture. If they get clogged, water can back up and cause a leak. The condensate line is usually connected to a floor drain or external outlet near the furnace. To clean it, disconnect the line from both ends and flush out debris using either a gentle stream of water or a vacuum hose. If the line is clogged with mineral deposits, clear it with a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water.

7. Clean the Flame Sensor, Pilot, and Ignitor

Only access the inside of the furnace if you’re comfortable doing so. The inner workings are quite sensitive. They are also prone to getting dirty. With the furnace’s power and gas supply off, remove the access panel and locate the flame sensor near the burner assembly. Remove the sensor gently and clean any debris with a soft cloth or fine-grit sandpaper. Then reinsert the sensor and make sure it’s secure.

Next, remove dust or dirt from the pilot light with a small brush or compressed air. Depending on your furnace model, the pilot assembly may have to be removed for cleaning. Also, clean the ignitor, which is a critical combustion component, and check for cracks or other signs of damage. Check the wiring connections for signs of corrosion or looseness as well.

Contact Trio Heating & Air’s Furnace Maintenance Professionals

Our technicians are experienced in maintaining, installing, and repairing many types of heating systems. You can save money by properly caring for your furnace throughout the year. We also recommend scheduling maintenance in the fall so the unit runs smoothly all winter. Our comprehensive maintenance services help avoid major repairs and breakdowns and extend your furnace’s operating life. To schedule maintenance or other heating services in The Greater San Francisco Bay Area, call (415) 223-5615 today.

Cleaning a furnace requires time and effort and is not a simple undertaking. Therefore, you should consider hiring a professional furnace cleaner at least once a year. It can be part of your annual heating maintenance visit. Other than changing the filter, which is simple, you should rely on a trained technician for more complex furnace and heating services.

Why You Should Hire a Professional Furnace Cleaner

Furnace maintenance keeps your heating unit running smoothly, safely, and efficiently. It can prevent big repairs and give your furnace a few more years of life. A thorough furnace cleaning has many benefits. We’ll now look at why you need a professional to help keep your furnace clean:

• Keep the Warranty Valid: Furnace cleanings may be required annually, depending on the warranty. Neglecting to hire a professional to clean the unit can void the warranty. Therefore, it won’t provide coverage to repair a major issue related to accumulated dirt and debris.
• Improved Efficiency: Dirty burners, sensors, blower assemblies, heat exchangers, vents, and other components cause your furnace to work harder. The more it runs, the more energy and fuel it uses. This means regular cleanings can maximize efficiency so you pay less for your monthly utility bills. Your furnace can operate in shorter, more regular cycles to provide a comfortable temperature.
• Cleaner Furnaces Burn Cleaner: Dust, debris, and carbon buildup on burners and inside the combustion chamber can contribute to the release of pollutants. A thorough cleaning removes the buildup to protect the air quality in your home and the environment in general. It can also prevent gases and fumes from building up and leaking into your home.
• A Safer Home: Dirt in ignition components, the burner assembly, and the heat exchanger can interfere with how your furnace works and create various safety hazards. A professional furnace cleaner can take steps to prevent harmful gases and particulates from contaminating your home. They can also help prevent a fire due to a poorly maintained furnace and avoid a carbon monoxide leak that you cannot see or smell but can be deadly.
• Your Furnace Can Last Longer: When they’re coated in dirt and grime, heating elements and electrical components wear out much faster, so your furnace can fail sooner. Preventative furnace maintenance, including cleaning, helps address minor issues to effectively extend your heating system’s lifespan. 
• Cost Savings Over Time: An annual maintenance and cleaning service is a small expense compared to dealing with consistently higher heating bills, major repairs, and having to replace your furnace prematurely. You can potentially save thousands of dollars over the life of your heating system.
• Less Noise from Your Furnace: As your furnace starts up and runs, you can hear its rumble when you’re nearby. The unit will become louder and vibrate more if it’s not cleaned properly. A furnace cleaner eliminates the buildup that causes the system to run more loudly. They can also tighten screws and secure loose panels, pipe brackets, ducts, and other components to reduce noise.
• Remove Duct Obstructions: During a furnace cleaning, the technician should also check for and clear any duct obstructions. Air ducts and vents near your furnace can clog with dirt, soot, and even rodents. A common sign of obstructions is rooms that don’t heat as effectively as others. Proper furnace maintenance can avoid these and other issues.
• Replace the Oil Filter: A furnace professional will replace the oil filter during maintenance (if you have an oil furnace). This should be done whenever cleaning the unit. Whether the oil level gets low or sludge and grime fill the tank, the filter can get clogged. Changing the filter allows more oil to reach the furnace; the technician can also remove sludge from the tank so your furnace provides optimal heating.

What Should I Know About Changing My Furnace Filter?

Don’t wait for a professional furnace cleaner to change the air filter. Your furnace has either a disposable or cleanable filter. The product manual should identify the type, recommended size, and location. Disposable filters are pleated or non-pleated and come in Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) ratings of 1 to 16 (for most homes, a MERV 6-12 filter is sufficient).

• Changing a Disposable Filter: To change a disposable filter, turn off the furnace’s electricity, open the front panel, and slide the old filter out. When installing the new filter, note the direction of the arrow, which indicates the airflow direction. The size of the filter on the filter frame and the door must match. Also, make sure the markings align when sliding the new filter in. Then close the panel, turn the power back on, and note when you replaced the filter (the entire process should take less than 15 minutes).
• Cleaning a Washable Filter: If the furnace has a washable filter, follow the same steps to remove it. Once the filter is removed, run a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment over the media. This should remove all dust and debris, and light should once again pass through the filter. Spray a mix of mild detergent and water on the filter and then hose it off in the sink. Set the filter aside to dry before reinstalling it.

Schedule Furnace Maintenance with Trio Heating & Air

Regular furnace tune-ups and cleanings help your heating unit run more efficiently and improve safety and reliability. We specialize in maintaining gas, oil, and electric furnaces. For professional furnace maintenance in The Greater San Francisco Bay Area or anywhere in Santa Clara County or San Mateo County, call (415) 223-5096 today. 

Faulty AC coils can cause serious problems, so schedule AC repair as soon as you notice something is wrong. Evaporator and condenser coils transport refrigerant so an HVAC system can collect and dissipate heat. It won’t do so effectively if the coils are damaged. Fortunately, the effects are noticeable, so you should know when to call a local AC contractor.

How Do AC Coils Work?

The evaporator and condenser coils are connected by coolant lines, which bring refrigerant to and from the condenser. A fan in the condenser unit dissipates heat from the refrigerant in the lines. The compressor then pumps the coolant back to the evaporator, where coils absorb heat and a blower pushes cool air into ducts. The coolant returns to the condenser to dissipate heat once again.

Signs You Have Faulty AC Coils

The most common effects of faulty AC coils in your home include:

• Refrigerant Leak: A leak can occur if an object falls against the coils. The coils can also become corroded due to exposure to acidic compounds in the air. If you see a refrigerant leak, call for help right away. It can do major damage to your AC and is a toxic chemical; exposure can lead to skin and respiratory problems.
• Environmental Damage: Coolant can harm the environment if it leaks from a damaged AC coil. It can contribute to atmospheric warming and ozone layer depletion (especially older R-22 Freon). A hissing sound from the coils means refrigerant gas is escaping.
• Reduced Cooling Efficiency: Refrigerant enables your AC system to generate cool air. A lack of cooling is one of the leading signs of faulty AC coils. Damaged coils cannot absorb heat effectively, so the system may not cool your home, or the cooling it provides will be inconsistent. Some rooms can be much cooler than others instead of the normal uniform distribution of air.
• A Noisy AC: Most air conditioners operate nearly silently. You should be used to the sound of the fan and airflow. If the evaporator coil is broken, you may hear a hissing or banging noise. These sounds mean refrigerant is leaking or loose or misaligned components are hitting other parts of your AC system. Ignoring any unusual noises can lead to even more significant damage.
• Frozen Coils: Ice can form on coils due to a refrigerant leak. Low refrigerant levels reduce the amount of heat transported through the lines, cooling them enough to cause condensation to freeze (poor airflow can also do so). The ice further contributes to the problem because it insulates the refrigerant, inhibiting heat transfer. Therefore, the air in your house is not cooled.
• Higher Energy Bills: Worn or damaged coils force your air conditioner to work harder to maintain a cool temperature. The extra work increases energy consumption. As a result, your monthly energy bills may increase suddenly or gradually without a clear reason. And, if your AC system works harder for a long period, major components can wear out, requiring costly repairs.
• The AC Short Cycles: The air conditioner may cycle on and off frequently if the evaporator coils can’t absorb enough heat. Short cycling wastes energy and can strain the system. The extra wear and tear can lead to expensive repairs or premature system failure. Call an AC contractor near you if the unit starts to run in shorter cycles.

How Do I Protect My AC Coils?

Check the AC coils often to reduce the risk of damage. Dust, hair, grime, and dirt can build up on them over time. The longer you wait, the harder the buildup is to remove. Use an AC coil cleaner or hose off outdoor coils to prevent damage, or call a contractor for help. If the coils freeze, have them check for a leak or airflow issue and, if necessary, correct it.

What’s the Safest Coil Cleaner to Use?

Use an AC coil cleaner that’s labeled for use with your type of system. The user manual or your AC installer may recommend certain products. You can also use a mix of water and mild dish detergent, and even add a little distilled white vinegar, for effective cleaning.

Should a Faulty AC Coil Be Repaired or Replaced?

Coils may be sealed or repaired if the damage is limited to a small area. However, a leak is often caused by eroded metal and corrosion. If part of the coil is corroded, other areas are likely affected. An HVAC contractor will generally recommend replacing it, which can be less expensive than a repair and recharge.

Call Trio Heating & Air

We provide high-quality AC repair services in The Greater San Francisco Bay Area. If you have a faulty AC coil or any other problem, our skilled professionals find the most cost-effective, permanent solution. They promptly evaluate the effects of any problem so it can be quickly diagnosed and repaired. Our team also provides high-quality AC installation and maintenance. To learn more or schedule air conditioning services from experienced AC contractors near you, book an appointment online or call (415) 223-5096.

A furnace install requires lots of considerations. Relying on guesswork can result in wasting money and having a heating system that doesn’t meet your needs. A furnace is an investment that can improve your home's comfort and energy efficiency for many years. Therefore, you need the help of an experienced heating contractor. But even before you hire furnace installers near you in The Greater San Francisco Bay Area, CA, here are eight things to consider:

1. Repair vs. Replace Your Furnace

Repairing a furnace can save you money if the unit isn’t that old, hasn’t been serviced much, and the repair bill is less than half the cost of a new unit. If your furnace has reached the 15- to 20-year mark, consider replacing it. Are you looking for a higher-efficiency model and to save on your heating bills? Then, replacing your furnace can help you achieve your goals.

2. Energy Efficiency Ratings

Since efficiency ranks high in importance, you want to consider the energy-efficiency rating of any new furnace you buy. It is determined by a product’s annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) rating. Today’s mid-efficiency units have an AFUE of 80% or higher, but a high-efficiency furnace can have an AFUE rating of as high as 98.5%. Generally, the higher a unit’s efficiency, the more it costs upfront, but the more you can save on long-term energy costs.

Also, you can save with tax credits and rebate programs for homeowners who invest in energy-efficient upgrades.

3. Size of Furnace You Need

A furnace’s size can refer to its physical dimensions (the unit must fit in the available space). However, it generally refers to the unit’s heating capacity. The required capacity depends on your home’s square footage, but a professional will include other variables in a heat load calculation. 

An undersized furnace won’t provide enough heat and will run longer to compensate. However,  an oversized unit may not run long enough. Either way, energy consumption will be higher and the furnace can wear out faster.

4. The Furnace’s Location

Find the ideal location before a furnace is installed. This is an area with enough airflow and that’s properly insulated. There must also be an electrical outlet nearby to power the furnace and access to a vent leading outside. Consult with a contractor regarding necessary updates, even if you are replacing an existing furnace.

A furnace must also be placed in an area where there are no flammable items. If there are cleaning products, paper, laundry, wood scraps, paint, sawdust, or gasoline in the furnace room, remove these, so your furnace doesn’t become a fire hazard.

5. Condition of Ductwork

Before installing a new furnace, have a contractor evaluate your ductwork. They’ll look at whether your air ducts are properly sealed. If not, energy loss will be a problem, no matter how high the furnace’s AFUE rating is. A professional can seal ducts to minimize energy loss. They can also clean dirt and debris if necessary, which could otherwise reduce a furnace’s performance and efficiency.

6. Insulation

Drafts and heat loss can cause dramatic temperature fluctuations between rooms. An increase in your electric bills is also likely. If your home has insulation issues, a heating contractor can evaluate and upgrade wall, ceiling, and attic insulation. They can also wrap the furnace in insulation to improve its performance and efficiency. Sealing gaps around windows and doors can also help as it can stop air from escaping.

7. Temperature Zoning

If uneven temperatures are common in your home, a zoning system may be the right upgrade. It can help control how heat is distributed. Such an upgrade should be considered during a furnace install to ensure the equipment is compatible. Zoning systems typically require multiple thermostats throughout your home. A technician can help find a programmable or smart model that serves as a centralized hub for the entire system.

Zoning also requires air duct upgrades, including installing dampers. These act as valves to control how much warm air reaches each room.

8. Your Family’s Safety

Installing a furnace has safety implications. Make sure children don’t have access to the area where the unit is being installed. Technicians will be moving heavy equipment and using power tools. Shut off the gas line and circuit breaker for your furnace. If you can, do so before the contractor arrives so this step isn’t accidentally forgotten.

Hire Experienced Furnace Installers Near You

High-quality installation is the first step to having a safe, reliable, long-lasting furnace. At Trio Heating & Air, our licensed heating professionals have the training, tools, and equipment to complete a furnace install that ensures reliable heating and high efficiency. They also provide heating maintenance and repairs. To learn more about our heating, air conditioning, insulation, and air quality services, call (415) 223-5615 today.

A furnace install requires many considerations. Learn what to know for optimal performance and efficiency. Call Trio Heating & Air today.