Making the switch to an electric heating and cooling system is an eco-friendly way to upgrade your HVAC and maximize the efficiency of your home. But before jumping in, you should do some research to make sure you’re making the best possible decisions. Without proper planning, a change in your HVAC system could be a rough transition.
A big part of this is working with an HVAC company that understands your options, the number of factors that go into choosing the right system, and how to develop the best HVAC solution for each home. Keep reading to learn how to avoid the most common mistakes people make when switching to electric heating and cooling. If you’re ready to take your home heating and cooling to the next level, contact us at N.E.T.R., Inc. today.
Mistake #1: Falling for the myths
Unfortunately, there are a lot of persistent myths about electric heating, and these tall tales sometimes scare people away from these systems. The biggest myth is that heat pumps cannot keep up in cold winter climates. While that may have been true 30 years ago, it couldn’t be farther from the truth right now.
With a hyperheat system, you can heat your home efficiently in sub-zero temperatures. In fact, during a terrible cold snap in Boston in February 2023, heat pumps proved that they were up to the task of heating homes through cold Northeast temperatures. At N.E.T.R., we didn’t receive any service calls for new heat pumps during that cold snap.
Mistake #2 Using the Wrong Air Filter
It’s important to protect your home’s indoor air quality, but choosing an overly restrictive air filter for your new HVAC system could cause issues. Restrictive air filters can affect airflow, forcing your system to work harder and aging it more quickly.
If you want your HVAC system to both meet your heating needs and serve as an air filtration system, talk with an HVAC installer about your options. Many electric air source heat pumps come with advanced filtration systems featuring plasma, ionic, or HEPA filters. When you invest in a system that comes with advanced filtration, you don’t need to look for aftermarket filters that may end up not working correctly with your system.
Instead, you can rely on the built-in filters to catch dust and allergens. But don’t forget, you have to maintain the filters. Schedule regular maintenance or follow the filter cleaning instructions for your model.
Mistake #3 Forgetting About Regular Maintenance
Proper maintenance is a crucial part of maximizing your HVAC system’s longevity and performance. That’s why it’s critical to follow your HVAC installer’s advice to the letter when it comes to the inspection schedule, maintenance schedule, and cleaning requirements. To stay on track, you may want to sign up for a ductless maintenance plan.
Also, be careful if you decide to clean your own ductless equipment. There is a widespread belief that harsher cleaning solutions yield better results, and in some cases, that’s true. But it’s not the way to go when it comes to your heating and cooling system.
Harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbing tools can cause significant damage to the various components of your HVAC system. Using the wrong tools and cleaning solutions can weaken the system’s efficiency over time, eventually leading to more expensive repairs and the need for a full replacement. Always follow the manufacturer’s suggestions when it comes to cleaning and maintenance.
Mistake #4 Not Planning for Power Outages
Electric heating and cooling systems are vulnerable during power outages. It’s important to note, however, that this is not unique to electric HVAC systems: gas HVAC systems also use electricity, just a smaller amount. P
Planning ahead for power outages can ensure that you still have access to heating and cooling if your power fails. Luckily, there are all kinds of options that can work as a backup when the power grid fails, such as a whole home generator or solar batteries.
Mistake #5 Selecting the Wrong HVAC Installer
Choosing the right HVAC installer for the job is a critical component in your system’s success. This is an area where you don’t want to make a choice based solely on cost. Don’t choose the cheapest option. Instead, focus on value by considering reviews, experience, certifications, and credentials. Picking the cheapest installer may save you money in the short term. However, you’ll likely spend far more than that on repairs, necessary upgrades, and higher power bills caused by a poorly installed system.
To protect your equipment and safeguard efficiency, look for an installer with in-depth experience in electric heating and cooling systems. Also, insist on an installer that will adjust their recommendations and approach based on your home’s unique needs. Finally, consider their credentials, and look for an installer who has completed high levels of dealer training. Don’t be afraid to contact multiple companies until you find the right fit.
Contact Us to Learn More About the Benefits of Electric HVAC
Whether you’re focused on whole home electrification, boosting efficiency, reducing your carbon footprint, or just improving the comfort in your home, an electric mini split can tick all those boxes.
Ready to upgrade your home and choose a more efficient heating and cooling system? Let’s talk about your options and how we can help. At N.E.T.R., Inc., we have completed extensive dealer training on electric mini splits, and we have decades of experience helping people in the Boston area and beyond improve their heating and cooling.
When you contact us, we never try to sell you anything you don’t need. Instead, we connect you with a comfort consultant who helps you select a customize the perfect electric heating and cooling system for your home. Ready to learn more? Then, contact us today.
