Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning

Heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) professionals are the unsung heroes of the building trade, at least according to our local expert.

“We often never even talk to the consumer during new construction,” he explains. Most often the general contractor deals directly with the client. But our expert and his partner are trying to change that for the sake of the homeowner.

He wants homeowners to understand that houses change over time. Insulation is added or deteriorates. Windows become leaky or are upgraded. Caulking wears out. An HVAC professional should examine all these things before a new heating system is purchased if the unit is to function properly.

Whether upgrading or replacing an old system or purchasing a system for a brand new home, our expert urges homeowners to keep these things in mind before they buy:

1. How long will you live in the home? This has a big effect on your budget. General contractors usually purchase the least expensive system they can get, but more expensive systems offer longevity, energy efficiency, less maintenance and better comfort over the long haul. For instance, our expert points out that while electric baseboard heating is the cheapest to install, it’s the most expensive to use.
2. “Research everything,” our expert advises consumers. Get a handle on what options are out there and what each offers.
3. Set priorities for what you want out of your HVAC system. Which is most important to you: comfort, moisture control, air quality, efficiency, cost, noise? Prioritizing these items will help you narrow your choices.
4. Meet with your HVAC contractor to discuss your options. He might give you choices neither you nor your contractor had considered.
5. Get references. Check out NARI, MABA, and word of mouth.

In Wisconsin, the most common heating systems are forced air, hydronic (water) which includes baseboard, radiators and in floor radiant systems, and electric or water wall units. Check with your contractor or HVAC professional and ask about the cost of installation, cost of use, pros & cons of the system, ease of installation, maintenance, and whether or not it can be upgraded to include everything you want later. “Never compromise,” our expert concludes. Make sure you get the features and comfort level you want. You’re the one who has to live with the system, hopefully for a very long time.

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