Eco-Friendly Heating & Cooling Options for Your Home
Southeast Idaho experiences all four seasons, from snowy winters to vibrant summers. That’s why ensuring you have effective HVAC systems to keep your home at the perfect temperature all year is important. As our nation moves toward a future of clean energy, it’s increasingly important to ensure that your heating and cooling are energy-efficient.
However, the benefits of these systems go far beyond their eco-friendliness. Homeowners who install energy-efficient systems have lower energy costs, improved comfort, and increased property values.
What To Look for in an Energy-Efficient HVAC System
The efficiency of AC units and heat pumps is measured in SEER or seasonal energy efficiency ratio. This rating measures the cooling output ratio to the energy needed. In Idaho, the most recent regulations require all new ACs and heat pumps to have a minimum efficiency of 14 SEER.
When discussing efficiency for gas furnaces, efficiency is measured in AFUE or annual fuel utilization efficiency. This rating is a percentage of how much fuel a furnace can convert directly into heat. Idaho requires gas furnaces to have an AFUE of 81% or higher.
We recommend homeowners look for systems that meet ENERGY STAR® specifications, as these systems are certified against strict performance requirements.
Heat Pumps
One great choice for Idaho homeowners is a heat pump. These systems offer efficient heating and cooling, making them a great choice for homeowners in areas with hot summers and cold winters.
These systems transfer thermal energy by pulling heat into or out of your home, depending on the season. Since heat pumps transfer heat rather than generate it, they don’t need to use an energy source like natural gas.
Ductless AC Systems
If your home doesn’t support ductwork or you want a more efficient way to cool your home, consider a ductless AC system. Instead of distributing cooled air through a series of ductwork, ductless AC uses individual blowers mounted throughout your home.
These blowers are connected to an outdoor unit and allow you to provide zoned cooling. Only cooling the rooms you need cooled can save significant energy without compromising your comfort.
Furnaces
New furnaces offer efficiencies of up to 96% AFUE and are one of the most viable and environmentally friendly ways to heat your home. These systems use a variety of energy sources, including gas, electricity, and propane, to heat air and blow it through your home’s ductwork.
One way to ensure you get the most efficient furnace is to work with a professional HVAC company to make sure you get the proper size unit, as one that’s too large will be less efficient.
Other Ways To Improve Your HVAC System’s Efficiency
When you invest in a new HVAC system, get the most out of its energy efficiency with these tips:
- Routine HVAC tune-ups: Annual maintenance from HVAC professionals will ensure that your system continues to operate at peak performance.
- Change air filters: Dirty and clogged filters reduce airflow and efficiency, so we recommend that homeowners change their HVAC filters every three to six months.
- Duct sealing: Prevent losing heated or cooled air to leaks in your ductwork, as your system will need to work harder to get your home to the perfect temperature.
- Duct cleaning: Cleaning your ducts ensures that you don’t have debris caught in sensitive mechanical components that can reduce efficiency.
- Programmable thermostats: Only use your HVAC system when and where you need it with a programmable thermostat that reduces energy use in your home.
Rely on Advanced Home Services for HVAC Installation in Idaho Falls
When you need outstanding HVAC service in Idaho Falls, trust Advanced Home Services. We’re proud to offer exceptional customer services from our practiced and experienced HVAC technicians. With high-quality products from leading manufacturers and a 100% satisfaction guarantee, you’re sure to get only the best from our team.
Call 208-745-9406 today to learn more about energy-efficient heating and cooling options for your home in Southeast Idaho.