How To Maintain Consistent Temperatures Throughout Your Home

The transition from spring to summer can be a challenging time for keeping your home comfortable. One day it can be over 80, the next day back in the 60s. During these ever changing conditions, adjusting your home's thermostat to maintain consistent indoor temperatures can be tricky. Larger, multi-level homes with large windows can present a unique challenge when trying to maintain even temperatures. During the spring months the lower levels may be cold, while the upper level may be uncomfortably warm.

Zoning for Consistent Heating and Cooling

Zoning is the process of dividing rooms and levels of a home into environments that can be adjusted separately to specific temperature requirements. For example, if one family member prefers to sleep in a cooler upstairs bedroom, occupants on the lower levels can control their own thermostat rather than enduring colder temperatures.

By working with your home's HVAC system, zoning will increase, reduce or shut off heating and cooling in each zone by opening and closing dampers located inside the air ducts. A programmable thermostat on an inside wall regulates damper function, allowing each zone to be climate controlled separately.

Zoning will not only maintain comfort levels in all areas of the home, it will significantly reduce home energy use and utility costs. When properly set up, a home zoning system can pay for itself in as little as three years.

Buying a Home? Don't Forget To Inspect the Heating System

The Importance of Heating System Inspections For Home Buyers

How to Inspect a Furnace When Buying a New Home

When buying a new home, it's easy to focus on aesthetics, but one of the most important aspects to evaluate is the home’s furnace. A thorough inspection of the heating system can save you from unexpected repairs and high energy bills later on. Heating systems, especially the furnace, play a key role in your home's comfort and energy efficiency. Here’s how to ensure the furnace is in good condition before making that big investment.

One of the tell-tale signs a furnace has not been well maintained is to pull out the filter. Does it look excessively dirty? Can you see dirt build-up inside the furnace? This often shows a lack of maintenance.  If it's dirty, replace the filter before proceeding with the remaining checks.

1. Listen for Unusual Noises

One of the easiest ways to spot potential problems with a furnace is by turning it on and listening carefully. Squeaks, rattles, or other strange noises could indicate mechanical issues, a lack of maintenance, or simply the wear and tear of an aging system. If you hear anything out of the ordinary, it’s a red flag that the furnace may need repairs or replacement soon.

2. Check the Age of the Furnace

Ask the current homeowner for the age of the furnace. Most gas furnaces are designed to last between 15 and 20 years with proper maintenance. If the furnace is nearing or past that age, it may not only be prone to failure but also less energy efficient. Older units are often more expensive to operate, which could mean higher heating bills, especially during out long Chicagoland winters.

3. Look for the Energy Efficiency Rating

Energy efficiency is another important factor. Modern furnaces are designed to meet higher efficiency standards, which can significantly lower your energy costs. Check for the EnergySTAR® rating on the unit, which indicates how efficient it is. If the label isn’t visible, you can use the serial number to contact the manufacturer for detailed efficiency information. The more efficient the furnace, the less you'll pay in heating costs year-round.

4. Consider a Professional HVAC Inspection

While you can perform a basic inspection yourself, hiring a professional HVAC technician is the best way to get a thorough evaluation of the heating and cooling system. A certified technician can inspect the furnace for potential issues that might not be visible to the untrained eye, such as leaks, faulty parts, or safety concerns. This kind of inspection can provide peace of mind, knowing that you’re not inheriting costly problems. MR Plumbing Heating Air Electrical is here to help with all your heating inspection and repair needs.

5. Check the Ductwork and Thermostat

Don't forget to inspect the home's ductwork and thermostat as part of the overall heating system. Poorly maintained ducts can reduce airflow and efficiency, while an outdated thermostat could make it difficult to control your home’s temperature accurately.

Upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat can make your home dramatically more energy-efficient and comfortable.

Protect Your Investment With a Heating System Inspection

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you'll make, and the condition of the heating system is an important factor in ensuring your comfort and budget. Having a professional inspect the furnace and related systems before finalizing your purchase can prevent future headaches, helping you avoid unexpected repairs and high utility bills.

At MR Plumbing Heating Air Electrical, we specialize in furnace inspections, maintenance, and repairs in Chicagoland. If you have questions about the condition of your heating system or are concerned about a home you’re considering purchasing, give us a call. Our team of experts is here to help ensure you make an informed decision.