Archive for: General Articles

  • $1500 Energy Tax Credit expires 12/31/2010

    HVAC Federal Tax Credits and Rebates Available for Homeowners in 2014

    Since the federal government began tax credit programs a few years ago, they’ve been of great interest to homeowners. The rebates available from utility companies given to customers who install energy-efficient equipment are popular too. Federal HVAC Tax Credits Unfortunately, the tax credits for most types of standard HVAC equipment expired at the end of […]

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  • AAA Rated Furnaces

    What are the best furnaces available? These 5 AAA furnaces are efficient and perform exceptionally well. These top-rated gas furnaces cost more than most, but the high efficiency will control energy costs and the performance will make your home very comfortable. Top 5 Gas Furnaces 1. Dave Lennox Signature Collection SLP98V Gas Furnace This furnace […]

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  • Apps for Remote HVAC Control

    A range of remote apps exist for controlling your HVAC system from your cellphone or other digital device. Being able to control your heating and cooling system with a mobile app has a few key advantages. Here is an overview of the best apps for remote HVAC control as well as the reasons for getting […]

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  • What are Rooftop HVAC systems?

    Rooftop HVAC systems are installed on roofs for a number of reasons. They supply heating and cooling to a homes and commercial buildings. In this guide, we explore rooftop HVAC systems and when you might choose one over a ground-based HVAC system. Types of Rooftop HVAC Systems There are 2 basic types of system, split […]

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  • What is a Ductless HVAC System?

    Ductless HVAC systems do not use ductwork to distribute air. These mini-split HVAC systems send treated air directly into a room or zone using an air handler to distribute the air. How Ductless HVAC Systems Work Ductless systems can be AC-only or heat pumps that supply both heating and air conditioning. These systems are called […]

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  • Current Government Programs for HVAC

    For many years now, the federal as well as state governments have been giving tax credits for the installation of high-efficiency, Energy Star heating and cooling systems. While many of the programs have expired, some still exist. However, the programs that have expired are the ones covering the most popular types of HVAC systems including […]

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  • What is an HVAC Diffuser?

    An HVAC diffuser allows you to distribute treated air more effectively in any location. A diffuser is a device, usually round though it can be a rectangle, that is installed on an air duct. Its purpose is to push air out of it in a 360-degree arc, forcing into the room evenly. Diffusers are used […]

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  • What Can I Expect to Pay for a New Residential HVAC System?

    If you are building a new home, you are probably asking, “what can I expect to pay for  a new Residential HVAC system?”  HVAC systems vary in price quite a bit.  This HVAC guide discusses cost factors and will provide an approximate idea of what you’ll spend on a new HVAC system. HVAC Cost Factors […]

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  • What Are HVAC Ratings?

    As you research HVAC components to consider for your home, you’ll see that each one has an energy-efficiency rating.  HVAC ratings tell you how well the component turns energy into heating or air conditioning.  In this HVAC guide you’ll learn what each of the HVAC ratings stands for.  We also list Energy Star requirements and […]

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  • HVAC System Replacement Costs

    There are several factors affecting HVAC system replacement costs.  In this guide, we outline those factors and give you a good idea of what you can expect as you make decisions about your next residential heating and cooling system. Factors Affecting HVAC System Replacement Costs 1. Quality and Performance: All top HVAC manufacturers make a […]

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  • HVAC System Maintenance – Why it is Important!

    In this HVAC guide, we discuss HVAC system maintenance – Why it is important!  In short, a properly maintained HVAC system will run more efficiently, perform as it should, and be less prone to mechanical failure.  Here’s an overview of the maintenance that should be done and how it will help your HVAC system. Furnace […]

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  • Best Residential HVAC Systems

    Homeowners planning to replace heating and cooling want to know what the best residential HVAC systems are.  In this HVAC guide, we discuss the top 7 systems on the market.  These are top of the line systems from the best manufacturers in the industry.  They offer the highest efficiencies, the best performance and are built […]

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  • What Do I Need to Know When Buying an HVAC System?

    An HVAC system may be the most expensive system in your home and it is certainly one of the most crucial.  You may be wondering, “What do I need to know when buying a HVAC system?”  This guide answers that question with tips that will help you select an HVAC system that will make your […]

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  • What is an HVAC System and What Does it Do?

    An HVAC system is the heating and air conditioning system in a home.  The term HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning and outlines the functions of the system. Heating Most homes require heating of some sort.  HVAC systems typically use either a furnace or a heat pump to supply heating. Furnace: The furnace […]

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  • HVAC System Types

    As you consider a heating and air conditioning system for your home, one of the first steps is to settle on the type of system you want.  There are several HVAC system types and components you should be aware of. HVAC Components Furnace: Most homes use a furnace for heating.  Gas furnaces that burn natural […]

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  • HVAC System Basics

    If you are shopping for a new heating and air conditioning system, then knowing some HVAC system basics will help you discuss your needs with an HVAC contractor and find the right system for your home.  With this list of terminology you’ll be an informed consumer. Basic HVAC Terms HVAC System: Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning.  […]

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  • Top 5 Heat Pump Systems

      This look at the top 5 heat pump system will list split systems featuring a heat pump that provides both heating and cooling.  Some of them are dual fuel systems which means that they can be installed along with a gas furnace instead of an air handler.  Homeowners with dual fuel systems, also known […]

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  • Can Solar Be Used for New HVAC Systems

    With consumer concern over the volatile and high price of electricity, alternative forms of energy are receiving renewed interest.  Many homeowners are asking, “Can solar be used for new HVAC systems?”  The answer from the HVAC industry is a resounding yes!  HVAC and solar technology continues to evolve.  In this article we will look at […]

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  • Whats New for 2011 – HVAC Systems

    Things change with each passing year in the HVAC industry and in terms of what’s new for 2011 — HVAC systems are becoming more efficient and cleaner.  In this overview, we’ll look at that development as well as other news and notes for the changing HVAC industry in 2011. High Efficiency is More Important: With […]

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  • Top 5 Mistakes Made by Contractors When Providing Service

    Would you like to know about the top 5 mistakes made by contractors when providing service? Most HVAC contractors work with integrity and do their very best to meet their customers’ needs.  But that doesn’t mean they don’t mess up now and then.  Here at the top 5 contractor mistakes and how you can avoid […]

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  • Common Upcharges from HVAC Contractor

    In this guide, we discuss common upcharges from HVAC contractor services.  An upcharge is a fee for services that are not part of the original agreement.  They can be construed as “hidden fees” unless the contractor tells you upfront that they are possible.  For example, let’s say you decide to take advantage of an HVAC […]

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  • How to Choose an HVAC Contractor

    You may be wondering how to choose an HVAC contractor if you need repair services or are planning to have a system installed or replaced.  In this guide, we provide 5 tips for how to choose an HVAC contractor you can depend on to do a good job. Tip #1: Get Firsthand Recommendations Ask neighbors, […]

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  • Coleman Echelon Series Model HC8B 18 SEER Heat Pump Price

    Coleman has been around for decades and in the past few years has revamped their HVAC product lineup to produce high-quality, durable and highly rated products like the Coleman Echelon Series HC8B heat pump.  It offers 18 SEER cooling along with a 10.0 HSPF for heating which is one of the highest in the industry.  […]

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  • Aire Flo CG92 Model CG92TB045D12B Gas Furnace Price

    Aire Flo is a Lennox brand known for excellent efficiency and reliability in a basic, well built furnace.  The Aire Flo CG92 is an affordable alternative to higher end furnaces.  It doesn’t have the features geared to customizing comfort rather than delivering dependable heating and air flow when cooling. The CG92 simply delivers solid, reliable […]

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  • Dave Lennox Elite Series XP13 Heat Pump Price

    Lennox makes reliable heat pumps for every budget and purpose as the Dave Lennox Elite Series XP13 Heat Pump demonstrates.  It offers lower up-front costs while delivering Energy Star qualifying efficiency.  Brian in Raleigh, North Carolina sent in numbers that we can add to our HVAC prices database.  Here’s his letter regarding the Dave Lennox […]

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