Help! - Our heating/air system is about 17 years old, so I guess i...

HOMEOWNER CRIES FOR HELP...

posted: September 8th, 2008 - 2:04pm

QUESTION:
Our heating/air system is about 17 years old, so I guess it was time for a breakdown.

We had intentions of replacing eventually, proabably around October. We live in a two storey home, around 2200 sq ft, and I am trying to figure out what to ask for when I call the Heating/Air companies tomorrow. What brands are reliable?

We will need a new furnace as well. What size should I be looking at?

Basically give me a run down on what I should know, or what info I have to give these people before they come out to take a look. I also would like to do a bit of reading so I can be better informed. BTW, we're having super duper hot weather here. It's already 100+.

ANSWER: Mari, of most importance, is following a proper procedural sequence "before" any equipment sizing & selection is done. The existing ductwork & airflow needs to be evaluated as to CFM airflow volume, & the duct system checked for air leaks & proper insulation, if its location requires it.

A heat-gain calculation should be done to point out where heat-gain could be reduced, which saves the high energy utility costs summer & winter. New foam insulations, radiant heat barriers, window treatments, etc. can often accomplish big reductions in utility costs.