The Ultimate Guide to HVAC For St. Louis First-Time Homebuyers

What You Need to Know About HVAC Systems, Maintenance, and Service For Your New Home

If you’ve hit a milestone by purchasing your first home this summer, congratulations!

Buying your first home in St. Louis is an exciting accomplishment, and it’s worth celebrating.

As a new homeowner, you’ve probably already realized your home comes with a myriad of responsibilities, including repairs, insurance, and maintaining your new residence’s HVAC system.

The climate in St. Louis can be unpredictable, with scorching summers and freezing winters, making a reliable HVAC system vital for comfort and safety. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about HVAC systems, including understanding the basics, ensuring proper maintenance, and knowing when to seek professional assistance.

The Basics Of HVAC Systems

HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. These systems are designed to keep your home comfortable year-round by regulating temperature and maintaining indoor air quality. Here’s a breakdown of the components.

• Heating: The St. Louis winters can be harsh, so a dependable heating system is essential. Most homes use either a furnace or a heat pump. Furnaces run on gas, oil, or electricity and heat and distribute air throughout the home. Heat pumps, on the other hand, transfer heat from the outside air into your home.
• Ventilation: Proper ventilation ensures both the circulation of fresh air and the efficient removal of stale air throughout your home. This process is vital for indoor air quality, preventing mold, and reducing allergens.
• Air conditioning: We all know that summers in St. Louis can be hot and humid. An efficient air conditioning system cools and dehumidifies the air inside your home, ensuring a comfortable and safe indoor environment.

Choosing the Right Residential HVAC System

You might be fortunate enough to have a brand-new HVAC system in your home. However, many homeowners find they need to replace their existing system or install a new one for peace of mind and maximum energy efficiency.

HVAC systems need to be replaced every 10 to 20 years depending on the system and how frequently it has undergone HVAC maintenance. So no matter whether you’re replacing your St Louis HVAC system now, or in several years, here are the following factors you need to consider.

1. Climate: St. Louis experiences both extreme heat and cold. A system that can handle both ends of the spectrum is essential. Some homeowners opt for a dual-fuel system, which combines a heat pump with a furnace for optimal efficiency. Others stick with an electric air conditioner and a natural gas or electric furnace.
2. Energy efficiency: Look for systems with high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) ratings for cooling and Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) ratings for heating. Energy-efficient systems may have a higher upfront cost but will save you money on utility bills in the long run. A reliable and professional HVAC company will always help you select the best energy-efficient system for your home, and suggest models with good SEER and AFUE ratings.
3. Size: An HVAC system that’s too large or too small for your home can lead to inefficiency and increased wear and tear. A professional HVAC technician can perform an inspection to determine the size your home needs.
4. Indoor air quality: Consider systems that include powerful air filters, dehumidifiers, or UV lights improve indoor air quality. This is especially important if anyone in your household has allergies or respiratory issues.

HVAC Maintenance Tips For New Homeowners

Regular maintenance is crucial to keep your HVAC system running smoothly and efficiently. Here are some essential maintenance tasks:

1. Change your filters: Replace your HVAC filters at least every 90 days, but more frequently if multiple people live in your house or if you have pets. Air filters improve airflow and efficiency, reduce strain on your system, and remove dust, allergens, and viruses from the air.
2. Seasonal inspections: Schedule professional HVAC maintenance at least twice a year, ideally in the spring and fall. Opt for an HVAC service agreement with a local company, as it will usually cover both visits for a more affordable overall price. These inspections can identify potential issues before they become major problems and keep all the components of your HVAC system running smoothly.
3. Clean your ducts and vents: Dust and debris can accumulate in your ducts and vents, reducing air circulation efficiency and quality. Have your ducts professionally cleaned every few years.
4. Check your thermostat settings: Ensure your thermostat is programmed correctly for the season. Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat for more precise control and energy savings.
5. Inspect your outdoor units: Especially during summer months, keep the area around your outdoor unit clear of debris, leaves, and plants as this ensures proper airflow. Additionally, to prevent overheating, it’s also important to clean your air conditioning condenser so it’s free of dust and dirt build-up.

When to Seek Professional HVAC Service

Although some HVAC maintenance tasks are easy, like keeping your A/C condenser clean, others require professional expertise.

Here are some general things to look out for that require professional HVAC help:

1. Unusual noises or odors: Strange sounds or smells coming from your HVAC system can indicate serious issues, such as a malfunctioning component or a leak.
2. Temperature fluctuations: If certain rooms in your home are significantly warmer or cooler than others, it might be a sign that you need to repair your HVAC system or that you may have ductwork problems.
3. Frequent cycling: If your St. Louis HVAC system turns on and off frequently, it could be a sign of an under- or over-sized unit or a failing component.
4. High energy bills: A sudden increase in your energy bills may indicate that your system is working harder than it should due to inefficiency or a malfunction.
5. Poor air quality: If you notice an increase in dust, allergens, or humidity levels, your HVAC system may need a thorough inspection and cleaning.

Well-established and reliable HVAC companies can provide a wealth of HVAC resources, tips, and tricks with specialized knowledge of the St Louis area and climate. Choosing one residential HVAC company for all your service needs means you have a trustworthy and efficient helper just a call away.

Simplify St. Louis HVAC Installation, Maintenance, and Service With a Company Who Gets It Right

For first-time homebuyers in St. Louis, there’s a lot to consider when it comes to your residential HVAC system. Make it easy for yourself by hiring a reputable HVAC company. Look for a company who has consistent great online reviews and a full spectrum of services to keep your home comfortable.