Every homeowner knows that their home is a complex machine and that many different systems work in conjunction to provide total home comfort. Sometimes, when things go wrong, it can be hard to determine which piece of the machine is to blame. We occasionally get calls for heating or cooling repair, only to discover the HVAC system isn’t even to blame!
Insulation is an integral part of your home system and prevents unwanted heat transfer. It helps to keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. However, if you are missing — or have subpar insulation — you could experience a number of problems that seem to be HVAC-related.
High Energy Costs
One of the biggest advantages of a new home comfort system is the improved energy efficiency. Our furnaces have an average AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) of 97%, which translates to greater monthly savings on energy bills. When a homeowner has installed a new HVAC unit and doesn’t see a decrease in their bills, insulation is often the culprit. The best furnace in the world will not make up for the fact that the heat is escaping as fast as it’s being produced.
Uneven Heating or Drafty Areas
If your HVAC system is installed correctly and serviced annually by a licensed technician, it should be capable of heating your home evenly and providing total home comfort. If you find that some parts of your home are colder than others or you feel a noticeable draft in certain areas of your home, you most likely need to upgrade your insulation. Some areas of your home could be under-insulated or missing it altogether.
Poor Indoor Air Quality
There are a few different options for homeowners when it comes to improving indoor air quality. Humidifiers, purifiers, filtration and ventilation systems all provide different clean air solutions depending on your specific needs. If you have concerns about the quality of your indoor air, a mould test can be performed to ensure total home comfort and safety. Improperly installed insulation could result in mould growth behind your walls. This could create a dangerous situation, as prolonged exposure to mould can result in deteriorating health.
Team Harding is committed to providing reliable HVAC and air quality service to the Ottawa region. If you are experiencing problems in your home and are unsure of the cause, contact us today. Our professionals are happy to assess your home’s needs and perform any required HVAC service as needed.
