Heating & Cooling Information & Resources
These articles are intended to help you understand the most critical system for your home's comfort and energy budget: your Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system. Our articles translate complex industry jargon—like SEER ratings, AFUE, and heat pump technology—into clear, actionable insights. Whether you are dealing with a faulty furnace, considering an upgrade to a high-efficiency geothermal system, or simply want to lower your monthly utility bills, we provide the knowledge you need. You'll find unbiased guides on preventative maintenance, troubleshooting common issues, improving indoor air quality, and evaluating the latest smart thermostats and energy-saving technology, ensuring your next heating or cooling investment is a responsible one.
Understanding SEER Rating
The SEER2 rating is the new minimum efficiency standard for cooling systems, replacing the older SEER rating. SEER2 uses stricter testing, like lower static pressure, to better mimic real-world performance. A higher SEER2 number means greater energy efficiency, leading to lower utility bills and long-term savings for homeowners.
Heat Pumps Versus Air Conditioners
For homeowners debating HVAC choices, the core difference lies in operation: a standard air conditioner (AC) is a single-purpose system that only cools the home, requiring a separate furnace for heat, while a heat pump is an all-in-one system capable of both cooling and heating by simply reversing the refrigerant flow. While both systems offer comparable cooling efficiency (measured by SEER rating), the heat pump excels in heating by transferring heat from the outside air, making it significantly more energy-efficient than electric resistance or fossil fuel heating and lowering long-term operating costs. The decision depends on climate (heat pumps are ideal for moderate climates but modern units work in colder ones), budget (ACs have a lower upfront cost, heat pumps may cost less overall), and the goal of achieving year-round comfort with one, environmentally friendly electric system.