Sierra Pacific Home & Comfort, Inc. Blog: Archive for June, 2018

3 Reasons to Replace Your AC Now

Monday, June 18th, 2018
Two cats sitting by a door near a home generator unit on a brick house exterior.

As a homeowner, thinking that you need to replace your AC now, on top of everything else on your to-do list, is about as enjoyable as considering a root canal. It’s likely something you hadn’t planned on doing, and your wallet will take a serious hit. Then again, ignoring the warnings signs can also be costly and become even more expensive the longer you delay action. Then again, ignoring the warning signs can also be costly, as frequent repairs can add up over time and become even more expensive the longer you delay action. In the case of your AC, that’s why you want to know for sure when it’s time to install a new system. Before your HVAC replacement, homeowners should clear access to existing equipment and review ductwork or electrical considerations to ensure a smooth process. If you need help assessing your options, review these signs you need a new air conditioner before committing. We’ll discuss three signs below indicating you need to replace your AC.

In Sacramento’s climate, heat pumps and ductless mini-splits are highly effective cooling replacement options, with heat pumps also providing heating during mild winters. For optimal energy efficiency, look for cooling systems with high SEER2 ratings of 14 or above. Homeowners can receive up to $3,000 in rebates for qualifying variable-stage heat pump systems as part of gas-to-electric conversions, and the Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) offers substantial rebates for energy-efficient cooling upgrades. Smart thermostats can automatically manage cooling cycles throughout the day and often qualify for instant rebates, helping you optimize comfort and savings.

Additionally, when preparing for replacement, it’s important to provide clear access to your existing equipment to help facilitate a smooth installation process.  

Introduction to Cooling Replacement

Cooling replacement is an essential step in maintaining a comfortable and energy-efficient home, especially as your heat pump or gas furnace ages. Over time, these systems lose efficiency, leading to higher energy bills, frequent repairs, and inconsistent comfort throughout your living space. Upgrading to a new, energy-efficient system can help you save significantly on your energy bills, sometimes up to 20% while also reducing the hassle of ongoing maintenance. When considering a replacement, it’s important to evaluate the condition of your current system, including outdoor units, ductwork, and overall airflow. A professional installation ensures your new system is set up for maximum efficiency and performance, providing reliable cooling and heating for years to come. By investing in a replacement, you’re not just improving comfort in your home, you’re also making a smart choice for your wallet and the environment.

What are the warning signs that your home generator needs repair?

  • It takes multiple attempts or delays to start, signaling battery, fuel, or ignition system issues
  • You hear unusual sounds like grinding, rattling, or squealing during operation
  • Your lights flicker or electronics act erratically, indicating unstable power output
  • You notice fluid puddles, strong fuel or oil smells, or visible leaks
  • The generator emits excessive smoke or odd odors, hinting at combustion, oil, or overheating problems

Read More

How a Whole-House Fan Helps You

Monday, June 4th, 2018

relaxed-homeownerWhole-house fans used to be the main means for regulating the temperature within a household until modern air conditioning systems came into the picture. Yet, they are still used to complement AC systems for a number of reasons. At Sierra Pacific Home & Comfort, Inc., we specialize in installing whole-house fans, which circulate air by creating specific pressure points throughout your house. In particular, whole-house fans draw in cooler air from outside and vent warmer air out through the attic or roof.

In this post, we discuss four ways a whole-house fan helps you, emphasizing how homeowners can benefit from getting these fans installed.

Read More