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Year-End Furnace Installation: Benefits for Your Home

Written by Kevin on . Posted in HVAC. No Comments on Year-End Furnace Installation: Benefits for Your Home

Every Missouri resident knows the winters here can get extremely cold. That is when homeowners rely on their furnace to keep their houses warm and cozy. However, furnaces, much like any mechanical system, have a finite lifespan.

The longevity of your furnace depends on a variety of factors. These include the furnace’s type, usage frequency, quality of installation, and consistent maintenance throughout its service. On average, a furnace can serve you faithfully for a period spanning from 15 to 30 years. If your heating system has kept your home warm in the winter for less than 15 years, there’s typically no need to consider an immediate replacement.

However, suppose your furnace has been generating warm air for over 15 years, and you’ve begun to encounter performance issues. In that case, it might be a unit teetering on the edge of a significant breakdown. A furnace close to the 30-year mark is past its prime and should be replaced before it succumbs to a total failure. You don’t want to get stuck in a Missouri winter without heat!

Recognizing the Signs: When to Replace Your Furnace

Is it time to replace your furnace? Here are some of the obvious signs that should motivate you to consider replacing your heating equipment.

Recurring Noises

Furnaces should operate quietly and smoothly with minimal sounds when you turn the thermostat up or down. If you’ve started hearing strange noises such as popping, rattling, humming, or clicking from your furnace, it indicates your heater is experiencing problems that could lead to a breakdown.

Rising Energy Bills

Their efficiency drastically reduces as furnaces near the end of their life cycle. That inefficiency translates into higher energy consumption, which leads to inflated heating costs. If your utility bills have recently shot up, it might be time to say goodbye to your old furnace.

Inconsistent Heating

Do you experience “cold zones” in your home? That is when one room always seems colder than another even though the heat is on. A properly functioning furnace should evenly distribute warmth throughout your house. If you’ve noticed that certain areas in your residence remain colder than others, it’s a clear sign that your furnace is struggling to heat your home.

Declining Air Quality

The older your furnace, the more likely it is that there will be issues with the air quality in your house. You might not see them, but that old furnace of yours could be pushing around more dust flecks and other airborne particles throughout your space whenever you turn it on. In turn, that could trigger more coughing, sneezing, and runny noses among your family members. Those symptoms might not be caused by the latest bug going around; they could be a sign that your old furnace is circulating bad air.

Frequent Repairs

Of course, you’re familiar with the expression “throwing good money after bad.” It refers to a situation in which you keep spending money on something while knowing you won’t get the desired outcome.

If your furnace has been demanding frequent repairs, it’s a clear red flag, especially when it has surpassed the 15-year mark. In such cases, attempting to extend its lifespan may prove much more costly than it’s worth.

The Benefits of Installing a New Furnace

Is it time to replace your old furnace before winter sets in? If you need more convincing about furnace replacement, consider the following benefits.

Improved Energy Efficiency

One of the primary benefits of having a new furnace installed in your home is its ability to improve the overall energy efficiency of the HVAC system. Older furnaces might have an Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating as low as 56%, but modern, high-efficiency models can boast ratings as high as 98.5%. That translates into substantial savings on your monthly energy bills.

Enhanced Comfort

Another compelling reason for a new furnace is its boost to your overall comfort. After all, you don’t want to spend the winter wrapped up in blankets and sweaters.

Current new furnaces are engineered to deliver consistent warmth, ensuring your house remains cozy during the harshest of Missouri cold spells. Many newer models feature variable-speed blowers and two-stage heating. Those design features further enhance your indoor comfort.

Improved Air Quality

A new furnace provides more than just cozy comfort. It also elevates your indoor air quality. Modern furnaces have advanced filtration systems capable of purging airborne contaminants from your living space. That improvement in air quality will contribute to better respiratory health and a more comfortable environment in general.

Quieter Operation

If you dread turning on your old furnace because of the clanking and knocking noises, you’ll be pleased to know that the newer furnace models are significantly quieter than their predecessors. Technological advancements have allowed manufacturers to craft furnaces that produce minimal noise, ensuring peaceful living. That can be a significant benefit at night. In other words, your new furnace won’t keep you awake.

Increased Safety

Modern furnaces incorporate safety switches and flame sensors that are pivotal in accident prevention. Furthermore, many newer models are furnished with carbon monoxide detectors. Those detectors serve as an early warning system for this potentially lethal gas.

Boosted Home Value

A new furnace can boost the value of your house. That can be a significant benefit if you want to refinance your mortgage. When the time comes that you decide to put your home on the market, having that new furnace will be an important selling feature.

Extended Furnace Life

You’ll get to “reset the clock” with your new furnace. Newer models frequently come with more robust warranties than older ones had, providing additional confidence. Proper furnace installation and maintenance will further extend your heating system’s lifespan.

Peace of Mind

Last, but certainly not least, peace of mind ranks among the most invaluable benefits of new furnace installation. Knowing that your home will be heated efficiently and safely is a profound comfort in itself.

Put the New Furnace Plan Into Action

If you’re ready to invest in a new furnace, you can rely on our experts at Level 9 Heating & Cooling for top-notch furnace installation services. We take pride in providing a wide array of furnace system options tailored to meet the unique heating requirements of properties of any size. Our team of helpful technicians is dedicated to ensuring the seamless and efficient installation of your new furnace. In addition, we offer annual maintenance check-ups on the system, which is the best approach for extending the equipment’s lifespan.

Besides a full range of HVAC installation, repair, and maintenance, at Level 9 Heating & Cooling, we also offer plumbing repair and installation services. We’ll get the water flowing again fast and help with any kitchen or bathroom remodeling project. We can also improve the air quality in a home with recommendations for humidifiers, dehumidifiers, air filtration systems, and air purifiers.

Our team serves all of St. Louis, Washington, and Des Peres. You can trust us to simplify the new furnace installation process and make it as cost-efficient as possible. Reach out to us at Level 9 Heating & Cooling today to put your plan for a new furnace into action.

Benefits of a Fall Furnace Tune-up

Written by Kevin on . Posted in HVAC. No Comments on Benefits of a Fall Furnace Tune-up

You probably don’t think about your furnace very often. You set the thermostat and wait for it to turn on and fill your home with warm air. When something goes wrong, though, that laid-back attitude goes out the window. Your mind may suddenly be preoccupied with thoughts of how to get it running again — and fast!

Don’t let yourself get to that point this winter. Instead, schedule a furnace maintenance appointment in the St. Louis area. You’ll find that there are multiple benefits to planning ahead with an annual furnace tune-up each autumn.

Detect Problems Early

The above scenario is exactly what a furnace tune-up is designed to avoid. A maintenance visit gives our technicians the chance to check out every part of your system. If any of them are wearing out or not working quite right, you’ll have the opportunity to schedule a repair right away. We may even be able to address the issue during your tune-up appointment.

Prompt repairs are good for multiple reasons. For one thing, problems caught early often require much simpler fixes. That will save you both time and money compared to putting off repairs and letting them get worse. Plus, you’re less likely to experience a nonoperational furnace in the middle of winter if our techs have remedied your system’s small issues at the beginning of the season.

Improve Efficiency

Cleaning and lubrication are two key tasks that we handle during furnace maintenance visits. Dirty filters and coils make the furnace work harder to push air through the system and warm it. When the motor bearings and other moving parts aren’t well-oiled, your system will be fighting against friction as it operates. These issues reduce the efficiency of your system.

Inefficient furnaces require more energy to operate. That’s not good for the environment. Scheduling a maintenance visit will help you be a more eco-conscious homeowner.

Reduce Heating Costs

Inefficiency isn’t just bad for the earth. It’s also a problem for your heating bills. The more energy your system demands, the more money you will have to pay your utility company each month.

If you want to keep your operating costs down, then have your system serviced at the beginning of the season. You may soon recoup the price of the maintenance call.

Clear the Air

A dirty, dusty heating system won’t do a great job of circulating clean, fresh air throughout your home. Rather, the air may pick up some of that dust and distribute it to the far corners of your house. You’ll breathe some of it in, too.

During an inspection, you will receive a new filter for your furnace. A fresh filter will be more effective at trapping particles from the air so that they will no longer be in circulation. The technician will also clear away any dirt and dust from the other parts of your furnace.

This can make a difference in your health. With cleaner indoor air to breathe, you and your family may experience fewer allergy symptoms this winter.

Also, dusty HVAC systems tend to deposit dust around the supply vents in your rooms. Keeping your furnace clean could eliminate this pesky problem.

Extend Your System’s Life

On average, furnaces last at least 15 years, and some are good for several decades. Major repair issues can cut short a furnace’s lifespan, though. If your system experiences a serious breakdown, you may find yourself needing to replace it after less than a decade. When the repair bill total is 50% or more of the cost of a new system, replacement is often advisable.

By catching problems early, you can often avoid such hefty repair costs. You’ll be less likely to face the decision of whether to repair or replace your unit.

Instead, our techs may be able to keep your system going year after year. We’ll fix little issues as they crop up. That might include replacing a belt, unclogging a drain line or switching out a failing ignitor. Plus, our efforts to keep your system clean may put less wear and tear on the components. When your furnace doesn’t have to work so hard to produce warm air, the parts may hold up better.

When the time comes for a replacement furnace in St. Louis, Level 9 Heating & Cooling will be there for you, but there’s no need to rush things. Regular maintenance can help you get as many years as possible from your current system.

Stay Safe All Winter

Your furnace is one of the most important appliances in your home. It can also be one of the riskiest. A malfunctioning furnace could allow carbon monoxide to leak into your house. Carbon monoxide is a deadly gas, and it can easily go undetected. It’s clear, and it produces no odor. You’ll want to do everything you can to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

One key preventative is to install carbon monoxide detectors throughout your home. In addition, you should commit to annual furnace inspections. Our heating technicians will carefully look over your system to ensure that it’s still in good shape. We’ll check for heat exchanger cracks, blower motor problems and other issues that could lead to carbon monoxide trouble. If we find any cause for concern, we’ll let you know and provide information about the safest next steps.

Follow Through With Warranty Obligations

If your furnace is on the newer side, it may still be under warranty. Hopefully, you won’t need to make any warranty claims. If you do, though, the manufacturer may ask for proof that you’ve held up your end of the deal. One of the most common requirements is annual maintenance care. You’re more likely to have your claims covered if you’ve had a technician perform a tune-up each fall.

Save on Service

For homeowners who are serious about regular system maintenance, it makes sense to sign up for a maintenance plan. At Level 9 Heating & Cooling, we offer Comfort Club Memberships for residential and commercial property owners. If you sign up for this service, you can save on heating and cooling care throughout the year.

For one thing, your membership will include a tune-up for both your furnace and air conditioning each year. You’ll also get one free filter. If a repair situation arises, you’ll benefit from priority scheduling, a discount on the trip charge and a discount on the repair fee.

Of course, you can choose furnace maintenance even if you don’t belong to a membership program. However, joining a program helps to ensure that you’ll make tune-ups a priority each year. Plus, you’ll benefit from the additional perks that your membership has to offer.

Level 9 Heating & Cooling not only offers maintenance service for furnaces but for air conditioners as well. We also do heating and cooling repairs and installations for both residential and commercial properties. Because your comfort is important to us, we offer plumbing services, too. Our community knows that we’re the experts in home care. We have received an Expertise.com award for our St. Louis HVAC services, and we value giving back to local causes.

To discuss furnace maintenance or other home needs, call Level 9 Heating & Cooling in Des Peres today!

Thermostats in St. Louis, MO Thermostats in St. Louis, MO

4 Reasons Why You Should Think About Getting a Smart Thermostat

Written by Kevin on . Posted in HVAC. No Comments on 4 Reasons Why You Should Think About Getting a Smart Thermostat

Smart devices aim to make our lives easier and more comfortable. For example, with a smart thermostat, you can remotely control your home’s indoor temperature and cut down on your utility bills. Better indoor air quality and increasing your house’s resale value are two additional benefits of installing a smart thermostat, making it a wise and environmentally sound choice. To fully understand the many reasons to consider a smart thermostat, you first need to know how this type of device differs from a regular, programmable thermostat.

Differences Between Programmable and Smart Thermostats

A programmable thermostat is much like a smart thermostat in that you can preset specific temperatures for the device to achieve at certain times throughout the day and night. However, only a smart thermostat can adapt to your family’s routine and change the temperature accordingly to optimize indoor comfort while also maximizing heating and cooling efficiency.

Another difference between smart thermostats and their programmable alternatives is that the latter tend to come with limited temperature scheduling options. Some allow you to only set a temperature schedule for Monday through Friday, and then a separate schedule for Saturday and Sunday. You always have the option to disable a programmable thermostat’s automated settings and make your own temperature adjustments; however, this defeats the purpose of having a programmable thermostat in the first place. On the other hand, you can set as many temperature preferences as you want for every minute of every day with a smart thermostat.

How Does a Smart Thermostat Work?

Smart thermostats use the internet to provide you with a remote connection to your home’s heating and cooling system. Most come with a compatible smartphone app that you can access at any time to view your house’s current temperature as well as adjust the temperature remotely. When you change a setting on the smartphone app, the smart thermostat receives a transmission of the change over your home’s Wi-Fi network. It then tells the HVAC system to produce cool or warm air.

A smart thermostat understands whether to heat or cool your home by using sensors to monitor temperature and humidity levels. When the interior temperature rises above the preset temperature, it signals the HVAC system to lower the room temperature, and vice versa when the home becomes too chilly.

Many smart thermostats use advanced sensors and algorithm-based programming to learn your family’s temperature preferences and make necessary adjustments. These high-tech temperature control units come equipped with a robust CPU for processing user input and a memory board for storing data. They can communicate wirelessly thanks to their antenna. In the event of a power loss, several smart thermostat types will continue to operate thanks to a lithium-ion battery.

The following are the top four benefits of installing a smart thermostat.

1. Save Money

The most common reason that people opt for smart thermostats is because of the savings they provide on heating and cooling expenses. A smart thermostat allows you to save money by helping the HVAC system use less energy as it heats and cools your house. Many experts claim a smart thermostat can cut your HVAC expenses by as much as 20%.

Smart thermostats learn your routine and temperature preferences in order to adapt to your absence or presence at any given time. When you’re gone or asleep, for instance, you can preset the thermostat to turn down the heat. By doing this, you reduce the HVAC system’s energy usage and save money.

Smart thermostats not only allow you to remotely monitor and adjust the temperature, but they can also record your energy use. This makes it easier for both you and the thermostat to pinpoint and address high energy usage issues to save even more money.

2. Enjoy Great Comfort and Convenience

A smart thermostat provides the utmost convenience when it comes to heating and cooling your home. Whether you’re in bed at night, ready to fall asleep, or halfway across the world on vacation, you can control a smart thermostat with your smartphone. You won’t find this level of convenience with any other type of thermostat.

Smart thermostats make it simple to enjoy greater indoor comfort because of the advanced sensors and algorithm-based programming that they use. The sensors inform the thermostats to make necessary adjustments so as to ensure the house’s temperature matches your preset temperature preferences. More so, these sensors keep track of when you’re at home and when you’re away. Using stored historical data, a smart thermostat will adjust the temperature to ensure it’s at your preferred level as soon as you walk through the door.

Another way smart thermostats make your home more comfortable is by monitoring and adjusting humidity levels. A house with too much humidity will feel damp and stuffy. Too much humidity can also compromise indoor comfort and health because it increases mold and mildew formation. With a smart thermostat, your home can automatically keep humidity at a comfortable and healthy level. This makes it easier for the HVAC system to operate, reduces the chances of mold and mildew, and improves indoor air quality, all of which are essential to indoor comfort.

3. Extend the Lifespan of Your HVAC System

As a smart thermostat learns your temperature preferences, it will make small adjustments that reduce overall energy usage. By doing this, the HVAC system uses less energy to heat and cool your home, meaning it will also experience less wear and tear, which extends the system’s overall lifespan.

Smart thermostats can also extend the lifespan of your HVAC system by sending you data-packed alerts. These notifications will instruct you on the best steps to take to address existing or potential issues with the system. For example, you can set the smart thermostat to send you a reminder to change the air filter any time it becomes dirty or clogged. By following this alert, you’ll increase the equipment’s energy efficiency, reduce wear and tear, and extend its lifespan.

4. Increase Your Home’s Resale Value

Installing smart devices can greatly increase the value of your property. Buyers constantly look for houses that provide ultimate convenience. With a smart thermostat, you make it easier for a new homeowner to save money on HVAC expenses while also increasing comfort and convenience.

When appraisers determine the value of a home, they make “adjustments” to the price based on the house’s features and amenities. Homes with smart technology installed usually command higher values and asking prices than those without it.

Are You Ready to Install a Smart Thermostat?

Installing a smart thermostat in your home is one of the smartest moves you can make to save money on heating and cooling expenses, increase indoor comfort, and boost your property’s resale value. If you’re ready to install a smart thermostat, contact Level 9 Heating & Cooling today. We’re proud to serve residents in St. Louis, Washington, and the surrounding areas. In addition to smart thermostat installation, we specialize in a variety of heating and cooling services, including AC tune-ups, heater repair, and indoor air quality improvement.

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Why Should You Regularly Change Your AC Filters?

Written by Kevin on . Posted in HVAC. No Comments on Why Should You Regularly Change Your AC Filters?

Changing AC filters is a type of routine home maintenance that almost every homeowner is aware of. However, even though most people know they should change their AC filters, they often delay this task because they don’t understand why it’s so important. Learning about all the advantages of regularly changing your AC filters will help motivate you to keep up with this chore. By taking just a few minutes to complete this quick and easy task, you’ll get all the benefits discussed here.

Better Air Quality

One of the most important benefits of regularly changing AC filters is that it improves your indoor air quality. If you want your air to be as fresh and clean as possible, you need an effective filter. Your AC filters help to catch a lot of dust and other airborne contaminants before they can get into your system. They lock away this grime inside the filter, so you don’t end up accidentally inhaling it while you relax at home.

While a fresh filter does a great job of improving air quality, forgetting to change it will eventually cause problems. As your AC pulls air through your filter, contaminants start to build up. Eventually, dust won’t have any filter fibers to get caught in. Instead, it will just bounce right off your overly-full filter and float around in your home again. If you ignore your filter change for too long, your air quality will start to decline. Your home might smell musty and funky, and there will be more contaminants floating around.

If your home has mold or other microorganisms, an old filter can be especially problematic. Changing your filter lets you catch mold spores and remove them from your house. If you don’t change the filter, the mold has a chance to grow and spread in your HVAC system. Breathing in mold can cause a lot of issues. You might notice that you wake up with a sore throat and stuffy nose, or you could have chronic headaches and other health problems.

Improved AC Efficiency

A clogged air filter also causes problems for your air conditioner. Filters are supposed to have a lot of fine holes for air to pass through. As dust blocks these holes, it takes more and more effort for your AC to pull air through the filter. Trying to pull air through a blocked filter makes your HVAC system work a lot harder. Not only does it run for a longer period of time, but your home won’t feel as cool.

Changing your filter regularly is one of the easiest ways you can make your HVAC system efficient. When it’s working with a clean, properly sized filter, you’ll get cool air without using excess energy. You’ll have a more efficient, environmentally-friendly system, and the improved efficiency will also save you money because your electric bills will be lower.

Reduced Risk of Needing AC Repairs

Another big benefit of changing your AC filters regularly is that it keeps your AC working properly. When your AC filters are clogged, your AC has to work harder. This puts a lot of wear and tear on the system. Eventually, you can end up with important components like your AC compressor breaking down. Furthermore, clogged filters let a lot of dirt and debris into your system, which can damage parts. If you don’t change your filters, you can have a clogged condensate drain line backing up and causing leaks in your house. Another common problem linked to dirty air is frozen evaporator coils. Dusty air makes it harder for your evaporator coils to absorb heat, so the condensation on the coils gets too cold and starts to freeze.

Fortunately, all of these problems can be avoided by just changing your AC filter. Most homeowners find that the price of a filter is definitely worth it because it prevents them from having to spend hundreds of dollars on AC repairs. Furthermore, changing your filters can mean you’re less likely to end up with an AC breaking down at an inconvenient time and leaving you sweating for days.

Over time, making your AC work harder can diminish its life expectancy. Even if you aren’t experiencing noticeable issues like puddles of water around your AC or warm air blowing from your vents, skipping filter changes will still gradually harm your system. Homeowners who fail to change their filters often enough will end up needing to get a new air conditioner much sooner than expected.

Relief From Allergies

If anyone in your home has allergies, prompt air filter changes are absolutely essential. Changing your AC filter regularly is something doctors will often recommend to allergy sufferers. Instead of changing your filter every 90 days, your doctor might suggest you change it every 60 days or even every 30 days. By frequently changing your filter, you trap allergens and remove them from your home.

This can be very helpful for people who are allergic to pollen, mold, pet dander, or other airborne contaminants. Skipping filter changes leads to higher levels of allergens in the air, so you can end up with itchy eyes, hives, or difficulty breathing.

More Comfortable Temperatures

Do you often feel as if your home takes forever to cool down? This can be a sign it’s time to change your AC filter. If your filter is very clogged, your system cannot absorb and remove heat efficiently. This causes the air coming from your AC to feel warmer. If your AC is turned off while you’re away from home, you’ll find that it takes quite a while for your house to reach a comfortable temperature again.

Homeowners who prioritize comfort can definitely benefit from changing their filters regularly. You get more control over your AC, so you get precisely the temperature you want. A more efficient system is also less likely to lead to hot and cold spots in your residence. Ultimately, if you want your indoor temperatures to suit your preferences, you need to remember to change your filter often.

A Cleaner Home

In addition to benefiting your health and your pocketbook, regularly changing your AC filters also has some perks for your home. When you take the time to change your filters, you cut back on the general level of dust floating around inside your house. You might find that you have to dust and mop less often, and your home will smell fresher and cleaner as well.

Many homeowners are surprised to realize just how huge of an effect their filters have on their home’s cleanliness. However, if you skip too many filter changes, you’ll start to notice. A common sign that a home isn’t changing its filters is black streaks around its vents. This can happen when the air is so dirty that it leaves grime on the walls or ceiling.

At Level 9 Heating & Cooling, we provide professional maintenance visits to ensure your HVAC system is running optimally. We also help Washington and St. Louis residents with a variety of other HVAC repair and installation services. Schedule your service appointment by contacting us at Level 9 Heating & Cooling today.

How Do Heat Pumps and Ductless Mini-Splits Differ?

Written by Kevin on . Posted in HVAC. No Comments on How Do Heat Pumps and Ductless Mini-Splits Differ?

If you’re looking to buy a new heating and cooling system for your home, heat pumps and ductless mini-splits are two of the most popular types of HVAC units on the market. While both of these systems are capable of heating and cooling a home, they do so in different ways. Whether you’re replacing an old HVAC unit or installing one for the first time, you should know how these types of HVAC systems differ.

What Are Heat Pumps?

Heat pumps are designed to provide a home with temperature control. These systems allow you to perform cooling and heating actions. When you choose to cool a room, heat is removed from your indoor air before being transferred outside. The opposite action takes place when the outdoor temperatures are colder. One reason why these systems are among the most highly sought ones on the market is because they offer high energy efficiency. Since they perform the functions of a heater and air conditioner, you won’t need to install two separate systems in your home.

The primary issue with this type of system is that its overall efficiency will worsen when the outdoor temperature is around 30 degrees Fahrenheit or below. Since these systems work by effectively absorbing heat from outdoor air before transferring it inside, it will be difficult for the system to function properly when the outdoor temperatures are freezing. Keep in mind that the majority of heat pumps use ductwork to distribute air in a property.

If you choose to have a heat pump installed in your home, you’ll benefit from more efficient cooling and heating, a sleek appearance, and more affordable installation. However, custom control of different zones throughout your home isn’t possible. You’ll also need ducts in your home for a heat pump to run as intended.

What Are Ductless Mini-Splits?

A ductless mini-split is a type of HVAC system that can provide your home with heating and cooling. However, not every mini-split unit is designed to deliver heating into the home. Some of these units will only cool indoor air, which makes them the most useful during the hot summer months. This system uses heat transference to maintain indoor air temperatures.

All mini-split units are ductless, which means that the air will be distributed through relatively small openings. One notable feature of a mini split is its compact size. You can mount these units on your ceiling, walls, or floors. Mini-split units are also highly energy efficient and are capable of controlling temperatures in multiple zones.

The primary advantages of using a mini-split include its ductless functionality, energy efficiency, flexible installation, and customizable control system. However, installation of these units can be costly. They also have a bulky appearance despite their compact size.

How Ducts Work

The main difference between heat pumps and mini-split units involves ducts. Even though mini-split units don’t require ducts to move air throughout the home, the majority of heat pumps do need them. Before having a heat pump installed on your property, make sure that you already have a duct system in place.

Air ducts are concealed passages in a home that are made from sheet metal. When an HVAC system is running, the ducts disperse cooled or heated air to different areas of the home. Air ducts are capable of pushing air to different rooms via small vents that are positioned on walls or floors. Because ductwork is installed around every area of your home, you’ll be able to deliver air to all rooms at the same time.

Even though ductwork is highly beneficial, there are a few downsides. For one, not every room in your home needs the same amount of cooling or heating, which means that the temperature in your home isn’t being maintained efficiently. Your bedroom likely needs more heating and cooling than your kitchen.

In the event that your property doesn’t currently have a ductwork system, installing one is oftentimes too complex and costly. If your home isn’t equipped with ducts, you may benefit from a ductless mini-split system.

Additional Points of Difference

While mini-split units and heat pumps have their similarities, they also have many unique features and advantages, which includes everything from how the unit is controlled to the amount of energy the system loses.

Unit Control

Ducted heat pumps are designed to push cool or hot air into all areas of a building via the ductwork. With this system, every area of your home can benefit from being uniformly warm or cool. Mini-split systems are best used for customized and individualized temperature control. When you select a single-zone unit, it will manage the heating and cooling in just one area of the home. Multi-zone systems allow you to manage the heating and cooling for several areas.

Heating and Cooling Functionality

There are several different heat pump models, which include a ductless version of a heat pump. Mini-split systems can either be air conditioners or heat pumps. When you purchase a heat pump for your home, you’ll receive heating and cooling functionality. On the other hand, not every mini-split system accommodates heating and cooling. Single-zone systems may solely act as air conditioners.

Installation Process

If your home already contains ductwork, the installation process for heat pumps is relatively straightforward. However, mini-split systems are somewhat more difficult to install. Both of these installation processes should be handled by an expert who knows what they’re doing and can keep mistakes to a minimum.

Operational Costs

Ducted heat pumps are centralized systems that are capable of regulating the temperature throughout every room in your home. During this process, more energy is used. Mini-split systems are made to be used in specific zones throughout your home. Every room can have its own air handler, each of which comes with a remote. You can reduce energy use and operational costs by only placing the mini-split system in certain rooms.

Energy Loss

Heat pumps are known to be highly energy efficient. However, some of the energy that the system uses is lost when the air passes through the ducts in your home. If you have ducts, it’s important that their sealing is in great condition. When using a ductless mini-split, there’s no chance that you’ll lose energy while air is circulating through your home. If you want the system with the most efficient design, search for ones that have the highest SEER2 ratings.

Whether you go with a heat pump or ductless mini-split as your HVAC system of choice, our HVAC technicians have the tools and experience necessary to install the system with care. Our team at Level 9 Heating & Cooling provides Washington, MO residents with repair, maintenance, and installation services for all types of HVAC systems.

If your existing heat pump is malfunctioning, we’ll diagnose the issues quickly to ensure that it’s up and running in no time. We also offer a selection of indoor air quality and commercial HVAC services. Contact us today to schedule our HVAC installation services.

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What Are 3 Benefits of a St. Louis Home Energy Audit?

Written by Kevin on . Posted in HVAC. No Comments on What Are 3 Benefits of a St. Louis Home Energy Audit?

A home energy audit identifies the biggest energy consumers in your home and teaches you how to take suitable actions to cut your home’s energy consumption. This type of audit provides a clear picture of your home’s energy use and is recommended before making any large energy improvements. You don’t want to make energy improvements that aren’t necessary while avoiding those that can significantly reduce your home’s energy use. A home energy audit can help you avoid this mistake. Explore how home energy audits work and their top three benefits.

How Does a Home Energy Audit Work?

During a home energy audit, a licensed auditor from Level 9 Heating & Cooling will visit your home for several hours. During the audit’s first phase, the auditor will walk through your home and around your property to determine any sources of large energy consumption or energy loss. The auditor’s evaluation will consist of inspecting your home’s heating and cooling system, attic and basement areas, insulation levels, and all windows and doors.

The second phase of the audit involves the auditor performing a number of tests, with one of the most important being an airtightness test to see how airtight your home is and whether any air leaks exist. Many auditors refer to this type of test as a blower door test.

To perform an airtightness test, the auditor will seal your home and place a large fan inside a ground-level room, such as the living area or kitchen. With the fan turned on, it allows the auditor to spot air leaks around doors, windows, and any cracks in the house. The auditor can spot a lot of the air leaks with his or her hand. For hard-to-spot leaks, an auditor will often use a feather to see where the leaks occur. By identifying all sources of large energy consumption and energy loss, it becomes possible to make improvements that notably make your home more energy efficient.

A lot of auditors conduct additional assessments to determine a home’s energy usage and areas of energy loss. Some of the tools that auditors most often use to perform additional assessments include:

  • Thermographic scanners
  • Infrared cameras
  • Furnace efficiency meters
  • Surface thermometers

After all assessments and tests have been performed, during the final stage of the audit, an auditor will analyze your past utility bills to detect your energy usage patterns. He or she will use bill data along with the information collected during the first and second stages of the audit to create a list of energy-saving actions you can take.

Now that you know how home energy audits work, let’s explore their top three benefits.

1. Pinpoint Energy-Saving Opportunities and Reduce Carbon Footprint

A home energy audit reveals where the most energy is consumed and lost in your house. The auditor pinpoints energy-saving opportunities and recommends improvements to reduce the home’s energy consumption. Some of the most common home improvements that auditors suggest include:

When you make improvements to reduce your home’s energy usage, you simultaneously make your carbon footprint smaller; this is particularly helpful to those wanting to reduce the amount of greenhouse gas emissions produced by their homes. The audit will identify where and how to make your home more friendly to Mother Nature and whether to do any of the following to reduce your carbon footprint:

  • Fix air leaks
  • Install new insulation
  • Upgrade lighting hardware

2. Boost Heating and Cooling Efficiency

Home energy audits help you identify and fix sources of energy loss, such as air leaks and poor ventilation, which makes it easier for the HVAC unit to heat and cool your home all year. This results in less wear and tear on the HVAC system, extending its lifespan and lowering heating and cooling expenses.

In addition to checking the HVAC system, an auditor will evaluate the hot water supply. If any of the HVAC or hot water systems’ components aren’t functioning correctly, the auditor will suggest whether to repair or replace them. Licensed auditors have the knowledge and training to determine whether a system needs to be repaired, replaced, or upgraded. Remember that following repair and replacement suggestions is key to getting the most out of a home energy audit.

3. Improve Your Comfort, Health, and Home’s Safety

A home energy audit gives you more control over your home’s indoor environment and comfort by discovering the source of high heating and cooling expenses, paramount to reducing energy bills. Maybe you notice high heating bills during cold St. Louis winters, but you don’t know why. With a home energy audit, you can have your ventilation system inspected to see whether it needs repairs. You can also determine whether your home needs more insulation to improve indoor comfort.

Along with improving indoor comfort, an energy audit can improve indoor air quality along with your health and safety. During the audit, an auditor specifically looks for sources of problems that negatively impact the air and your health, such as loose electrical wires and gas leaks. He or she may also perform different combustion tests on appliances powered by fuel or gas. Furthermore, the auditor will look for moisture issues, which are crucial to addressing poor indoor air quality concerns. By following the auditor’s recommendations to fix moisture and gas leak problems, you’ll improve your home’s indoor comfort and air quality and your overall health.

Signs It’s Time to Get a Home Energy Audit

If it’s been more than a year since your last home energy audit, you should consider booking one today. You should also schedule an audit if you notice any of the following signs in your home:

  • Constant interior drafts
  • Hot and cold spots
  • Aggravated allergy or asthma symptoms
  • Leaky ductwork
  • Improper ventilation
  • High levels of gas or carbon monoxide

What Should I Do After a Home Energy Audit?

After the home energy audit is completed, you’ll receive a report that outlines your home’s conditions. This report will detail all sources of energy consumption and energy loss within the home as well as spell out multiple energy-saving opportunities. Ideally, you should implement all free improvement suggestions first, then any inexpensive suggestions. Next, you’ll want to list the pros and cons of the remaining recommendations and have the most beneficial ones performed first. Remember, if any of the improvements don’t fall within your comfort zone, leave them in the hands of a professional.

Schedule Your Next Home Energy Audit With Level 9 Heating & Cooling

Every source of energy loss in your home that goes undetected or unaddressed will increase your monthly energy expenses. If you’re ready to make your home more energy efficient, contact Level 9 Heating & Cooling now to book your next home energy audit. The audit will improve indoor comfort, help you save on energy expenses, and increase the lifespan of your heating and cooling systems.

Geothermal heatpump in Washington, MO Geothermal heatpump in Washington, MO

Geothermal Heat Pumps: The Future of Energy Efficient Heating & Cooling

Written by Kevin on . Posted in HVAC. No Comments on Geothermal Heat Pumps: The Future of Energy Efficient Heating & Cooling

When you’re ready to upgrade to an energy-efficient and eco-friendly way to heat and cool your home or building, geothermal heat pumps are the place to start. Here’s why:

Instead of chemical refrigerants and/or carbon-based fuels, geothermal heat pumps use the Earth’s temperature to heat your home when it’s cold out and cool your home when the weather is hot. In addition to the obvious environmental benefits, geothermal heat pumps cost far less to operate than traditional HVAC systems.

How Geothermal Heat Pump Systems Work

Geothermal heat pump systems work by using the Earth’s constant temperature to heat and cool homes and buildings. These systems use a series of pipes buried in the ground, which circulate a fluid that absorbs heat from the ground during the winter and releases heat into the ground during the summer. This heat exchange process is helped along by a heat pump, which compresses the absorbed heat to provide heating and provide cooling by expanding it.

There are three main types of Geothermal heat pump systems: closed-loop, open-loop, and hybrid. Closed-loop systems circulate a fluid through a closed system of pipes buried in the ground, while open-loop systems use an underground water source to transfer heat. Hybrid systems combine elements of both closed-loop and open-loop systems.

Advantages of Geothermal Heat Pump Systems

One of the most significant advantages of Geothermal heat pump systems is their energy efficiency. These systems can provide up to 70% savings on energy costs compared to traditional HVAC systems. Geothermal systems also reduce greenhouse gas emissions, as they use renewable energy from the Earth’s constant temperature. Moreover, Geothermal heat pump systems are long-lasting and require less maintenance than traditional HVAC systems, making them a cost-effective option over their lifespan.\

Installation and Maintenance of Geothermal Heat Pump Systems

Installing a Geothermal heat pump system involves drilling boreholes in the ground and installing pipes, a heat pump, and other components. The cost of installation can vary depending on factors such as the location, size of the system, and type of ground.

Regular maintenance of a Geothermal heat pump system is necessary for optimal performance and longevity. This includes checking the fluid level, cleaning the air filters, and inspecting the ground loop for leaks or damage. The maintenance requirements for Geothermal heat pump systems are generally lower than those of traditional HVAC systems.

Geothermal Heat Pump System Applications

Geothermal heat pump systems can be used for residential and commercial applications. These systems can be customized to meet the heating and cooling needs of a variety of buildings, from single-family homes to large commercial buildings. Geothermal heat pump systems can also be integrated with other renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power, to further reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

Conclusion

Geothermal heat pump systems offer a sustainable and cost-effective way to heat and cool homes and buildings. With their energy efficiency, environmental benefits, and long lifespan, these systems are a wise investment for anyone seeking to reduce their carbon footprint and save on energy costs.
Questions? Call us, We are the Heat Pump Pros.

HVAC Tools on HVAC Systems Outside of Home after AC Maintenance in Washington, MO HVAC Tools on HVAC Systems Outside of Home after AC Maintenance in Washington, MO

Maintenance Tips to Prevent Costly AC Repairs

Written by Kevin on . Posted in HVAC. No Comments on Maintenance Tips to Prevent Costly AC Repairs

Your air conditioner is essential for keeping your home comfortable during warm weather months, but it can also be costly when breakdowns occur. Fortunately, taking proactive measures to maintain your unit now will help eliminate costly repairs down the road. In this blog post, we’ll give you some helpful maintenance tips to ensure your air conditioning system continues running smoothly throughout the summer and beyond. Keep reading to learn how to save money on unexpected repairs while staying cool all year.

1. Change the Filter Regularly

Regularly changing the filter in a central air conditioning system is recommended by HVAC professionals and plays a vital role in preventing costly repairs down the road. A filter in good condition can catch dust and debris before they enter your air conditioner and damage internal components. Clean filters also allow for adequate airflow, so your cooling system does not have to struggle when working to keep your home cool on hot days. Just like how it is difficult to breathe through a straw, air conditioners have to work harder when there is a clogged filter in the system. Making sure filters can do their job by changing them when necessary can extend the life of your air conditioner and may prevent costly repairs. A side benefit is that a system with clean filters is more efficient, so it may cost less to run, putting some money in your pocket.

In addition, while the primary purpose of an HVAC air filter is to protect your equipment, they do function as air scrubbers for the whole system. A filter in bad condition can allow dust, pollutants, and other debris to recirculate through the ducts of your home and, therefore, the whole house. This can lead to you having to clean your home more often and can reduce indoor air quality. Experts recommend changing HVAC filters every three months at a minimum. However, everyone’s home is different, and by regularly inspecting your filters, you can gain a sense of how often they need to be changed out. Factors like the number of pets you own and how many people live in your house can affect how often changing your air conditioner’s air filter is required.

2. Clear Condensate Lines

Clearing condensate lines may be the last thing on your mind when it comes to air conditioner maintenance, but ignoring this critical tip could cost you a lot of money and hassle down the road. The process of cooling your home produces moisture in the air conditioner, which drains into a pan. From there, the condensate line carries the water outside your home.
If the line gets clogged up with dirt, debris, or even algae (especially in humid climates), it can cause a backup in your air conditioner, leading to costly repairs.

If you see water dripping from the condensate line outside your home when the air conditioner is running, you know your unit is functioning properly. Water not draining outside can be a sign that the condensate line is clogged or there is an issue with the drain pain. Other signs to look for to identify condensate line problems include water leaking from your unit, excess humidity in your home, or your air conditioner shutting off and not turning back on. If you notice any of these signs of condensate line blockage, you should contact a professional. A technician can clear the line and may be able to fix any underlying issues that are causing your condensate line to get clogged up. They will also check that the problem is not related to a cracked or damaged drain pain or leaks in the air conditioner’s drainage system.

3. Remove Ice Buildup

Even in hot weather, air conditioners can develop issues with ice build-up. Ice build-up is usually caused by low refrigerant levels or lack of airflow. These issues can cause the coils in the outdoor unit of your air conditioning system to drop below freezing. Humidity in the air then collects on the coils, and the moisture freezes over time, resulting in ice build-up. This situation results in an air conditioner that is operating inefficiently and may experience additional wear and tear as it labors to cool your home. This can cost a homeowner money in repair bills and higher cooling expenses.

If homeowners notice ice in their outdoor unit, the first course of action should be to change the air filter to improve airflow, which may solve the problem. If changing the filter does not work, the problem could be dirty evaporator coils, an air filter that is too restrictive, or return ducks that have become damaged or blocked. A professional will clean the unit, can work with you if there is a return airflow issue, and give you advice on the correct air filter to use with your unit.

4. Monitor Refrigerant Levels

Refrigerant is an important factor in your air conditioner’s proper operation. It gathers the heat energy from your home and transports it outside. Refrigerant lines can develop a leak due to age or if they become damaged. Signs of a leak or low refrigerant levels can include ice build-up, higher utility bills, warm air coming from your vents, and your air conditioner making hissing or gurgling noises.

If you notice any of these signs, you will probably have to contact a professional. A homeowner can not easily check the refrigerant level in their air conditioner. Therefore, it’s essential to have an HVAC expert check the system for leaks, repair any problems, and recharge the refrigerant when necessary. By doing so, you ensure the optimal performance of your cooling system and prevent costly repairs that would otherwise be incurred when a unit breaks down.

5. Check Electrical Connections

This includes inspecting the connection points on your air conditioner’s indoor and outdoor units. Electrical connections can get loose over time, and if not checked, they can lead to severe issues with your system. Loose connections can cause tripped circuit breakers or, even worse, overheating wires that could cause a fire. This type of damage should be avoided at all costs, if you notice any loose, damaged, or frayed wires, it is best to contact a professional. A technician can fix the problem as well as determine if there is a solution for preventing damaged or loose wires in the future.

Rely on the Experts

Regular maintenance is critical to keeping your air conditioner running efficiently and avoiding costly repairs. By following the tips mentioned here, you can extend the useful lifetime of your air conditioning unit. However, there is no substitute for having a professional perform annual preventative maintenance on your cooling system. A technician will clean and lubricate your central air conditioning system and identify small problems that may become major issues in the future. By identifying these small problems and solving them, a professional can help you avoid costly repair costs. The technician will also work with you to ensure your system is as efficient as possible to reduce your cooling bills.

At Level 9 Heating & Cooling, we have been serving the residents of Washington, MO, since 1975. We install, maintain and repair heating and cooling systems. Additionally, we provide indoor air quality and commercial HVAC services. You may be interested in becoming a member of our Comfort Club maintenance program, which offers discounts to customers on labor and parts costs and includes annual HVAC tune-ups.

If you are having air conditioner issues or have questions about our annual maintenance program, contact [Company_Name] today!

HVAC in Washington, MO HVAC in Washington, MO

What are Some Big Changes in HVAC for 2023?

Written by Kevin on . Posted in HVAC. No Comments on What are Some Big Changes in HVAC for 2023?

All of the Big HVAC Changes You Need to Know About in 2023

Most homeowners don’t spend too much of their time keeping up with the latest goings-on in the HVAC industry. It’s easy to understand why. Most homes need new HVAC systems every decade or so, and there aren’t many other reasons for homeowners to pay attention. And in any case, change in the HVAC industry is typically incremental, not revolutionary. However, there are a variety of changes in HVAC that homeowners should know about in 2023. The changes involve new regulations that affect the technology powering HVAC systems as well as their efficiency. Here’s a complete rundown of everything homeowners need to know about these changes.

All About HVAC Efficiency Standards

The biggest change in the HVAC industry in 2023 has to do with efficiency. The U.S. Department of Energy has increased its minimum efficiency standards for all new HVAC systems. To understand what that means, though, you’ll first need some background on the standards themselves.

Back in 1987, the U.S. government passed The National Appliance Energy Conservation Act (NAECA), which set minimum efficiency standards for a wide range of household appliances, including heating and cooling equipment. The standards, which were phased in between 1990 and 1993, made it illegal to sell certain categories of appliances that didn’t meet the statutory minimum efficiency levels.

For air conditioners, the new minimum efficiency requirement meant a system needed a SEER rating of 10 or more to qualify for sale. SEER, or seasonal energy efficiency ratio, is a standard efficiency scale used to gauge the energy use of air conditioning systems. It calculates the total cooling output over a simulated average cooling season and divides that by the number of kilowatt hours of electricity consumed in the process. The result is a number that buyers can use for an apples-to-apples efficiency comparison of multiple HVAC systems.

For furnaces, the applicable efficiency standard is AFUE, which stands for annual fuel utilization efficiency. It’s a more straightforward system that lets you know what percent of a heating system’s fuel gets turned into usable heat for your home. The initial standard for furnaces was an AFUE of 78 for all residential systems.

Then, in the year 2000, the minimum efficiency standard rose to a SEER rating of 13. And in 2011, the standards changed again, splitting into a region-by-region approach with different standards for different parts of the country. At that time, the standard in warmer states that relied heavily on air conditioning rose to a SEER rating of 14. The minimum standard for furnaces rose to an AFUE of 80, too. That’s where things stood right up until the beginning of 2023.

SEER Gets an Upgrade

Beginning on January 1st, 2023, the federal government raised the SEER rating minimum for new air conditioning equipment to 14 in the Northern states and 15 in the Southern states. The changes mean that new air conditioners sold this year and beyond will outperform older systems by even more and save homeowners more money on operating costs.

That’s not all, though. The SEER rating system itself got an upgrade, too. Going forward, the testing for all new air conditioning will follow a far more accurate protocol. As a result, SEER ratings will now appear as SEER2 ratings on new air conditioning equipment as a way to let buyers know about the change.

Heat Pump Efficiency Standards Also Rise in 2023

Air conditioners weren’t the only home comfort equipment that got a minimum efficiency bump in 2023. So too, did heat pumps, which use a lesser-known efficiency measure called HSPF. The measure, which stands for heating seasonal performance factor, is essentially a cousin of SEER. It tells you roughly how much heat a heat pump delivers in an average heating season, divided by how much energy the heat pump consumes.

The original minimum efficiency standard for heat pumps in the U.S. was a 6.8 HSPF rating. Over the years, that minimum rose gradually to an 8.2 HSPF. As of 2023, though, the minimum is now an 8.8 HSPF. However, since heat pumps can both heat and cool your home, they’re subject to the same minimum efficiency standards as conventional air conditioners, too. That means all new heat pumps sold in the U.S. must have a minimum heating efficiency of 8.8 HSPF and a SEER rating of 14 or higher.

New Refrigerant Requirements in 2023

The second big change in the HVAC industry in 2023 has to do with the technology that air conditioners and heat pumps rely on to function. More specifically, it’s about the refrigerants such systems rely on. It’s that new air conditioners and heat pumps can no longer use one of the most widely used refrigerant types, R-410a.

The reason for it is a simple one. R-410a, while being far better for the environment than older refrigerants like Freon, still comes with high global warming potential. This means every time R-410a leaks from an HVAC system, it does grievous damage to our environment and contributes significantly to climate change.

In its place, manufacturers are using a variety of next-generation refrigerants. Among them, a refrigerant called R-454b is already gaining traction and may soon become the de-facto standard in the HVAC industry. For homeowners, this means new HVAC systems will come with new maintenance requirements, and technicians need a new set of tools to handle the new refrigerant.

It also means homeowners with older HVAC systems must choose an HVAC company like Level 9 Heating & Cooling to service their R-410a-reliant systems. The government is letting R-410a stay on the market to facilitate repairs and maintenance of old systems, but it will one day go away entirely. That means homeowners with older HVAC systems might need to accelerate their replacement timeline somewhat to account for the change.

HVAC Supply Chain Crunches Persist in 2023

Although it’s not a change to the HVAC industry per se, there’s another thing that homeowners should be aware of in 2023. It’s that the lingering supply chain issues that have driven up HVAC prices and led to longer installation lead times are still an issue. This means homeowners with plans to purchase and install any new HVAC equipment this year should plan ahead and get the process started as early in the year as possible. That way, they won’t run the risk of ending up having to deal with an HVAC installation in the middle of the cooling season or, worse, at the end of the year when heating season rolls around again.

Consult the HVAC Experts

Here at Level 9 Heating & Cooling, we believe that an educated customer is the best customer. So, by filling you in on all of these important changes in the HVAC industry in 2023, we hope we’ve given you some food for thought. And as the leading HVAC contractor in the Washington, MO area since 1975, we look forward to having the opportunity to serve you. We offer complete HVAC installation, repair, and maintenance services, including working on commercial HVAC equipment. Plus, we also specialize in geothermal systems and air quality, too.

So, if your home needs a new HVAC system or some work done on the one it already has, contact the experts here at Level 9 Heating & Cooling today!

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