(Family Features) For many homeowners, the heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) system is among the home’s most important, and most costly, features. This system ensures the home remains at a comfortable temperature, and it also plays a significant role in the home’s energy usage.

HVAC

If you’re in the market for a new HVAC solution, you probably know there’s no shortage of installers. Before you hire a contractor, there are some important factors you should consider, according to the experts at Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US (METUS), a leader in heating and cooling innovation.

Product Options
A qualified technician will have the knowledge and flexibility to install a wide range of products and solutions. As the country moves toward electrification, your contractor should be well-versed in conventional HVAC systems and more sustainable options such as energy-efficient, mini-split ductless and ducted heat pumps.

It’s also important to know about a prospective contractor’s experience with the equipment, including installation, maintenance, and repair. Accreditation, licensing, and training will give you a good idea, but you should also explore the contractor’s reputation and reliability through references and reviews.

Price
When exploring your options, get a written quote that details the proposed equipment and labor costs. Ask about incentives available at the time of service, including discounts, rebates, or other pricing specials. If you are installing an energy-efficient heat pump, you might also be eligible for incentives through the Inflation Reduction Act, such as tax credits and state rebate programs.

Financing
Replacing or repairing your HVAC system can be an unexpected expense. More HVAC contractors are beginning to offer financing options to help customers with upfront costs. Ask about financing options – preferably low-interest options – early on in your conversations with contractors. If any are offered, ensure the contractor is working with a trusted, reputable lending provider. If you are investing in an energy-efficient system, your heating and cooling savings may even allow you to recoup your loan over time.

Warranty
Many HVAC manufacturers offer equipment warranties that can help offset future repair costs, but it’s important to understand what’s covered. For example, Diamond Contractors, specially trained in installing Mitsubishi Electric equipment, allow for a 12-year warranty on parts and a 12-year warranty on compressors after equipment has been registered.

Equipment Issues
A qualified technician can help you understand the various options and explain terms you don’t know. You should feel comfortable asking questions and requesting the information in writing.

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Learn what else you need to know before making a big investment in a new HVAC system at mitsubishicomfort.com.

Asking the Right Questions Matters

You’ve done research, budgeted for upfront costs, and compared units, but can’t make sense of the different HVAC systems. Hiring the right contractor can help alleviate these concerns.

Asking the right questions is especially important if you have specific energy goals in mind. Consider these questions:

1. Are you certified in HVAC installation, repair and maintenance?
2. Do you have insurance?
3. Do you have references I can speak with?
4. What are the indoor unit options for my home’s design and square footage? How many units do I need? How many of these systems has your company installed in the last few years?
5. Does my home’s design support ductwork, or are ductless systems the best option for me? What are the pros and cons of each?
6. What’s the temperature range this system can manage?
7. How does this system handle partial loads? (“Load” is the amount of heating or cooling needed to bring a space to a comfortable temperature.)
8. How frequently does the system need to be serviced? What kind of maintenance does the system need? What kind of maintenance program do you offer?
9. What kind of utility cost savings can I expect comparing a split-ductless heat pump system to a conventional HVAC system?
10. Will I need any supplemental equipment to achieve my energy usage goals?

SOURCE:
Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US (METUS)

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(Family Features) As the leaves begin to change and temperatures start to drop, it’s time to start thinking about preparing your home for the cooler months. With a few simple steps, you can ensure your haven of comfort stays warm, inviting and energy-efficient throughout fall and winter.

Ideas for Cooler Weather

Consider these home projects from the experts at Westlake Royal Building Products– a leader throughout North America in innovation, design and production of exterior and interior building products including siding, trim, mouldings, roofing, stone, windows, outdoor living and more – based on Zonda’s 2024 Cost vs. Value Report to get your home ready for the cooler seasons.

Upgrade Your Garage
New garage doors typically come with energy-efficient features and advanced security measures but are also relatively low-cost updates compared to the significant perceived value and resale benefits. In fact, replacing a garage door boasts a 193% return on investment, according to the report. Pairing new garage doors with updated trim can also offer a tight seal from exterior elements such as wind, snow and water.

Insulate for a Warmer Interior
Insulated siding can play a crucial role in enhancing your home’s thermal performance. By providing an additional layer of protection, it helps reduce heat loss, ensuring your home remains warm and your energy bills stay manageable. Plus, according to the report, vinyl siding replacement has an 80.2% return on investment. An option like CraneBoard Solid Core Siding from Westlake Royal Building Products offers superior durability and insulation. Its solid core construction provides added strength and impact resistance while also contributing to better energy efficiency. In addition, the solid core reduces external noise and is designed to endure extreme weather conditions.

Leak-Proof Your Home’s Windows
Windows can be substantial energy drainers and let warmth out when they’re not properly sealed. If you notice a draft coming in around your windows, sealing cracks or gaps with aesthetically pleasing trim can make a significant difference in keeping the heat in and chilly air out. For extreme drafts, consider replacing windows altogether, which can provide sellers with an average 67.1% return on vinyl window replacement, according to the report.

Shield Your Roof
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. Check for damaged shingles or tiles and make necessary repairs to prevent leaks. If a roof replacement is needed – which provides a 56.9% return on investment using asphalt shingles, according to the report – consider incorporating a high-quality roofing underlayment to provide an extra layer of protection against water, heavy snow and ice. For example, Sol-R-Skin BLUE, an external insulating underlayment from Westlake Royal Building Products, complements steep slope roofing. This underlayment serves as a secondary water protective layer, energy-saving radiant barrier and above-deck roof insulation blanket that is all-in-one. It incorporates an anti-glare coating in cool blue, making it easier and safer to install than alternative shiny radiant barrier options.

To learn more about high-performance products for your home, visit WestlakeRoyalBuildingProducts.com.

SOURCE:
Westlake Royal Building Products

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Victors Home Solutions is providing a new roof for Aimee and Nancy O’Brien of Southgate, Michigan

Victors Home Solutions is ready to support homeowners in Southgate, Michigan by surprising them with a new roof.

SOUTHGATE, Mich. /PRNewswire/ — The O’Briens had a free 21-point roof inspection completed through Victors Home Solutions where it was uncovered that their roof is in perilous condition, and may cause damage to the entire home. Upon applying for financing through several avenues, they were unable to get the approval needed to proceed with repairs.

After meeting the couple, the roof inspector was touched by their story. Seeing the dire need they had for a new roof, the O’Briens were nominated for Victors Home Solutions Give Back Program.

“In meeting the homeowner, I could see the pain they felt after another roofing company didn’t live up to their promises.” Says Donte Rivera, Roof Inspector. “I wanted to make them feel heard and comfortable, and hearing their story, it touched me. After trying to get the O’Briens approved for financing and seeing it wasn’t possible, I did everything I could to take care of them in the way only Victors knows how to do best.”

Victors knows the importance of giving back to the communities in which it operates. That’s why the Give Back program through Victors was founded. For every 100 roof replacements installed, Victors gives one local family a roof, free of charge. It’s through this passion for community that many have received the gift of a lifetime. If you know someone in need of a roof replacement, nominate them here.

About Victors Home Solutions

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Victors Home Solutions has provided premier residential roofing and home improvement services to Midwest communities for over 15 years. Victor’s commitment to quality workmanship and integrity, along with his passion for roofing, has made Victors Home Solutions the highest ranked roofing company in Michigan. With over 200 employees and six locations, Victors is at the forefront and stands poised to revolutionize the roofing and home improvement industries. For more information, visit Victors.com.

SOURCE Victors Home Solutions

The Bridge is a section of the STM Daily News Blog meant for diversity, offering real news stories about bona fide community efforts to perpetuate a greater good. The purpose of The Bridge is to connect the divides that separate us, fostering understanding and empathy among different groups. By highlighting positive initiatives and inspirational actions, The Bridge aims to create a sense of unity and shared purpose. This section brings to light stories of individuals and organizations working tirelessly to promote inclusivity, equality, and mutual respect. Through these narratives, readers are encouraged to appreciate the richness of diverse perspectives and to participate actively in building stronger, more cohesive communities.

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