Upgrading your home’s HVAC with a more energy-efficient air conditioner, heater or heat pump is a great way to save money on your monthly utility bills. However, you might be surprised when your contractor suggests that your HVAC upgrade will be much more effective, and wallet efficient, with new insulation as well. He is not trying to increase your costs. Instead, he is looking out for your best interests by making sure you receive the best return on your investment and your home is kept comfortable throughout the year.
Why Insulation is So Important
According to the North American Insulation Manufacturers Association (NAIMA), nearly 90 percent of homes in the United States are under-insulated. The purpose of insulation for your home is to act as a thermal barrier from hot and cooler weather outdoors. Insulation is important for keeping your home comfortable with a consistent temperature without hot or cool areas spread throughout. Proper insulation in your home helps reduce:
- Your energy bills for cooling and heating
- Allergens and pollutants that could have an impact on your family’s health
- Outside noise that can interfere with enjoying your home
Vital Link between HVAC and Insulation
A chain is only as strong as its weakest link. To put it simply, insulation makes the shell of your home more efficient by reducing the amount of air seeping in or out your attic. If your home is not properly insulated, you will not experience the full capabilities of your new energy-efficient air conditioner, heater or heat pump. Instead, it may have to work even harder to keep your home comfortable, especially during the hot summers the Albuquerque area is known for.Hot air seeks cooler spaces and vice-versa.
So, hot air from your attic can seep into your living spaces and swap places with the air cooled with your high-efficiency air conditioner.
This makes your new system:
- Struggle to cool your home
- Use more energy and turn on more frequently
- Have a shorter lifespan due to wear and tear
If you are considering a new HVAC system, your first step is to evaluate your home’s insulation. Your HVAC provider will have to climb in and out of small spaces in your home and move HVAC parts in and out of your attic spaces. During this time, there is a good chance they will squish or move the insulation that is in place, rendering it less effective. Your best option is to have your new HVAC installed, then have Millers come in a securely insulate your home. Our technicians will come in and seal up all penetrations, air leaks and blow in a good layer of insulation after the HVAC system has been installed. This way your new HVAC system will be as efficient as possible and leaves you with an energy bill that wasn’t wasted. Millers is your home comfort solution for improving life and comfort in your home. Contact us first before starting your HVAC project for a free quote on your insulation.
