HVAC technology is delivering new systems every year that provide advances and improvements in efficiency and performance. The status quo in heating and cooling is moving ahead rapidly. But what if you’re not ready to replace your existing home system with an entirely new furnace, air conditioner — or both? Do you have to live without all the benefits of improved HVAC technology?
The fact is, you can make improvements to your existing system simply by upgrading certain replaceable components and/or adding on extras. This can help update your overall heating/cooling experience, lower costs, and extend the life of your present system. Here are a few examples of what’s available:
- Upgrade your blower. Many installed HVAC systems still incorporate the low-tech OEM blower fan with only two speeds: on and off. An intelligent, variable-speed blower runs continuously across a wide range of speeds to match the heating/cooling demands of the moment. It eliminates noticeable on-and-off temperature swings of a standard blower, and it also features a quiet, highly efficient motor that cuts blower electrical consumption by up to 75%.
- Connect your thermostat. A new Wi-Fi thermostat allows you to monitor and control your indoor environment from anywhere in the world with an internet connection. You can check indoor temperatures while you’re away, make changes to programmed temperatures, and receive alerts about technical problems in the system. In some cities, Wi-Fi thermostats can also connect to the local utility, enabling your HVAC system to respond to changes in demand on the grid and qualify for rebates on your monthly bill.
- Add a whole-house dehumidifier. Room dehumidifiers are a solution restricted to limited spaces. They’re also maintenance-intensive, requiring manually emptying the reservoir daily and regular cleaning. A whole-house dehumidifier installs directly into HVAC ductwork, fine-tuning the humidity content of air circulating through the entire house. A humidistat mounted in the living spaces allows precise automatic setting of desired relative humidity. Condensate flows directly into the household drain system with no tank to empty.
For more ideas to upgrade the HVAC technology in your older HVAC system, ask the professionals at Ace Hardware Home Services.
