Important Notice for Northern States Homeowners

If you are a homeowner who lives in the northern half of the United States, here is some important information you should know:

"2007 Energy Bill"

In 2007, The U.S. Congress passed the Energy and Independence Act (the "2007 Energy Bill").  What does this mean for you?  The passing of this bill allowed for the Department of Energy (DOE) to develop regional standards for the installation of heating and air-conditioning equipment.  In the case of the northern United States (including the State of Wisconsin) high-efficiency, condensing furnaces will be required after May 1, 2013.

These new standards will require that gas furnaces installed after the mandated deadline must have at least 90% Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE).  The current standard is 78% AFUE.  This will effectively exclude the installation of non-condensing furnaces and may result in additional venting requirements for the exhaust, and/or minor renovations to accommodate the new equipment.

What Can You Do?

If you are looking at replacing your home's furnace in the next few years, you may want to call your local contractor.  If you don't want to install a 90% efficient, condensing furnace, you can still upgrade to a non-condensing gas furnace before May 1, 2013.  Having a contractor come out and inspect your current system, venting and space requirements will help you to determine your options.

If you are located in Southeastern Wisconsin, contact 1st Choice Heating & Cooling at 262-547-2030 to answer any of your questions and/or to set up an appointment to review your current system.

Turn to the Experts During a Heat Wave

This summer's unprecedented and relentless heat has been very good for reputable HVAC contractors, but it has also provided an opportunity for the amateur installer to take advantage of consumers.  When your air conditioning goes out in a heat wave, it can be very tempting to contact the first one who can show up at your doorstep.  However, it is important to step back and keep one thing in mind.  Why is this individual available at a moment's notice, when every other contractor is booked solid?

A reputable contractor will charge a fair price for a service/diagnostic trip and make every effort to get to you as soon as possible.  They will also make a knowledgeable assessment of the situation and proceed with service and/or replacement based on the life-expectancy of the product.  If a unit is replaced by someone other than a factory-authorized dealer, you may also face problems later with regard to the warranties for parts and labor.

It is also important to find a contractor who belongs to a professional association such as NARI (National Association of the Remodeling Industry).  Contractors are carefully screened prior to membership to insure “ethical” practices.  In addition, the consumer who encounters issues with a NARI contractor can achieve satisfaction through its arbitration process. 

If you are feeling the heat and need service or a new system quickly, it is worth taking the time to do it right.  Keep a box fan going for an extra day or two to insure you get the proper product at a fair price that is installed per factory specifications.

  

Wayne Abendschein is a Comfort Specialist @ 1^st Choice Heating & Cooling, a Carrier Factory-Authorized Dealer.  Wayne is also an active member of Milwaukee NARI and currently serves as chairperson for the Spring and Fall Home Improvement Shows.

If you are located in Southeastern Wisconsin, contact us at: www.1stchoiceheating.com