(NAPSA)—Thecharm ofan older homeis an attractive selling feature. Less appealing are the inefficiencies of an older heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) system or the absenceof a cooling system. Updating to an HVACsystem improves comfort and often makes good economic sense, but it requires careful planning. Asking the right questions and enlisting the help of a qualified HVAC contractor can makeit possible to create a comfortable, efficient environment with- out spoiling the character of these classic structures. Step 1: Determine how much equipment you need Ask your HVAC contractor to conduct a “Manual J” load calculation to determine your home’s unique heating and cooling needs. Thiscalculation analyzes everything that affects air temperature in your home—thingslike windows, orientation to the sun, and duct leakage. Using this calculation, your contractor can recommendthe rightsize equipmentfor your home. Step 2: Determinethe location of the unit and inspect ductwork Ask your contractor where the new equipmentwill be located and whether your ductworkis properly sealed, insulated and sized for the equipment. Dust and debris in the ductwork can reduce the HVAC system’sefficiency and damage its components, so have the ductwork inspected before shopping for a new system. Your contractor should also inspect the home’selectrical system to be sure it provides enough power to handle a new, upgraded HVAC system. Step 3: Discuss your efficiency and “stage” options Whether shoppingfor a furnace, air conditioner or heat pump, always check the efficiency of the unit you are considering. Theefficiency of a fuel-burning furnace is expressed as the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE). Air-conditioning systems are rated according to their seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) and heat pumpefficiency is expressed as the unit’s heating seasonalperformance factor (HSPF). Generally speaking, a higher AFUE, SEERor HSPF means increased efficiency and reduced operating expenses. If you're in the market for a new furnace, choose from a single-stage, two-stage or modulating furnace. Single-stage furnaces operate at full capacity all the time. Two-stage furnaces have two separate heating settings—a lowersetting that is used whenthe furnace turns on and runs during milder winter days and a higher stage for colder conditions. Modulating furnaces, such as the York Affinity™ Series gas furnaces, can run at any speed within a set range, allowing them to choose the precise speed that’s mostefficient for the given heating demand andoffering the most energyefficient heating solution. Also, consider installing a programmable thermostat to control your new HVACsystem. Thesethermostats offer accurate, reliable, energy-saving performance, and in somecases they include Wi-Fi support to work with mobile devices to easily program a system remotely. Step 4: Understand your warranty Finally, be sure to check the warranty coverage offered by the equipment manufacturer. Your contrac- tor should be very clear about what’s covered. Also, ask whether an extended warrantyis available and what advantages it offers. To learn more about energy-efficient heating, ventilation and airconditioning (HVAC) products, visit www.york.com, www.youtube.com/ yorkhomecomfort and @YorkHVAC on Twitter or call (877) 874-7378.
