The Best Heating & Cooling System You’ve Never Heard Of

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Geothermal Heating and Cooling Systems

The Best Heating & Cooling System You’ve Never Heard Of

Geothermal heating and cooling systems are gaining popularity among environmentally-conscious homeowners looking for sustainable climate control solutions. But what exactly are geothermal systems and what benefits can they provide? Read on to learn more about the short and long-term advantages of installing geothermal HVAC in your home.

Short-Term Benefits

One of the most immediate benefits of switching to geothermal is the potential for major energy cost savings, typically up to 60% compared to conventional systems! Geothermal systems are able to operate much more efficiently by taking advantage of stable underground temperatures. This translates to lower electricity bills for heating and cooling your home.

In addition to being cost-effective, geothermal systems provide consistent comfort. The technology allows you to maintain desirable temperatures throughout your home without the fluctuations that can occur with traditional HVAC systems. No more freezing in winter or sweating in summer!

Long-Term Benefits

While geothermal systems require greater upfront costs, they offer numerous long-term rewards. Geothermal heat pumps have a lifespan of 20-25 years compared to 10-15 years for conventional units. This long equipment life, coupled with sustained energy savings, means geothermal can provide incredible value over time.

The Federal Government even provides tax credits for geothermal system installation to further enhance long-term savings. Homes outfitted with geothermal also have increased resale value.

Environmental Impact

Choosing geothermal means reducing your carbon footprint and living more sustainably. These systems cut greenhouse gas emissions by up to 60% compared to traditional heating and cooling methods. With geothermal HVAC, you can do your part to combat climate change.

For homeowners seeking cost savings, comfort, reliability, and eco-friendly operation, geothermal systems are an ideal heating and cooling solution. Take advantage of their short and long-term benefits by considering geothermal for your next HVAC upgrade. Our planet and wallet will thank you! Roth Heating & Air has been serving the Wichita area for almost 70 years and proudly installs Bosch Geothermal Heat Pumps.

 

How long can you expect your old furnace and air conditioner to last?

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How long will heating and air conditioning systems last?

How long can you expect your old furnace and air conditioner to last?

If you have an old furnace and air conditioner, then you may be wondering how long they can last. With the right air conditioning and furnace maintenance by a reputable company, you can extend the life of your units and get the most out of them. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the typical lifespan of a furnace and air conditioner, and how to get the most out of your units with the proper maintenance. Read on to learn more!

Factors that impact the lifespan of a furnace and air conditioner

There are several factors that can impact the lifespan of a furnace and air conditioner. One of the most important factors is proper maintenance like our Blue Ribbon Planned Service. Regular air conditioning and furnace maintenance can significantly extend the lifespan of these systems. Routine maintenance includes cleaning or replacing filters, inspecting and cleaning coils, lubricating moving parts, and checking for any leaks or blockages. Neglecting these maintenance tasks can lead to increased wear and tear on the system, resulting in a shorter lifespan.

Another factor that can impact the lifespan is the quality of the equipment. Investing in furnaces and air conditioners from high-quality manufacturers like Rheem, Amana and GrandAire can increase their durability and longevity. Cheaper, lower-quality equipment may not last as long and may require more frequent repairs or replacements.

Climate and usage also play a role in determining the lifespan. Extreme temperatures like what we get here in Wichita or constant usage can put additional strain on the system, potentially reducing its lifespan. In areas with hot climates or where the air conditioner is used frequently, it may need to be replaced more often compared to areas with milder climates or less usage.

Lastly, the age of the equipment itself is a factor to consider. Older furnaces and air conditioners may be less energy-efficient and more prone to breakdowns, leading to a shorter lifespan. If your system is over 10-15 years old, it may be nearing the end of its lifespan and should be closely monitored for any signs of failure.

By understanding these factors and taking proactive measures such as a maintenance plan and investing in quality equipment, homeowners can help ensure their old furnaces and air conditioners last as long as possible.

Average lifespan of a furnace

The average lifespan of a furnace can vary depending on several factors, including the brand, model, and maintenance. However, on average, a well-maintained furnace can last anywhere from 15 to 20 years or longer.

Regular maintenance, such as annual inspections and cleanings, can help extend the lifespan of your furnace. Additionally, investing in professional furnace installation and having routine home HVAC maintenance from a trustworthy company like Roth Heating & Air who has been in business in Wichita for nearly 70 years can also help ensure your furnace operates efficiently and lasts as long as possible.

Average lifespan of an air conditioner

The average lifespan of an air conditioner is typically around 10 to 15 years. However, this can vary depending on various factors such as the quality of the unit, the frequency of usage, the climate and the level of maintenance it receives.

Regular air conditioning unit maintenance can help to prolong the lifespan of your air conditioner and ensure optimal performance. It is important to monitor your unit for any signs of wear and tear and consider replacing it if it is approaching or surpassing its expected lifespan.

Signs that your old furnace or air conditioner may need replacing

Here are a couple of signs that indicate it may be time to replace your old furnace or air conditioner:

  • Frequent breakdowns and repairs, as this can be a sign that the unit is no longer functioning properly.
  • Steadily increasing energy bills could be a sign that your old unit is no longer energy efficient.
  • Strange noises, inconsistent temperatures throughout your home, and outdated technology are also indicators that it may be time for a new furnace or air conditioner.

Contact an experienced furnace or air conditioning installer like Roth Heating & Air and consider scheduling regular home HVAC maintenance to keep your system running smoothly or to consult with them on a new more energy efficient system.

 

How much does an HVAC unit replacement cost

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HVAC unit replacement cost

How Much Does Replacing an HVAC Unit Cost?

Your home’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) unit is designed to give you and your family a comfortable temperature all year round. It also reduces your energy costs by providing a more efficient heat source than traditional furnaces or boilers.

But what happens when an HVAC system is no longer functioning well? In some cases, efficiency issues can be resolved with an air conditioner repair. However, a unit replacement is needed for more severe problems, such as a malfunctioning blower motor or faulty wiring.

HVAC Replacement Cost

A full HVAC system replacement can cost anywhere from $6,000 to $26,000.

HVAC system replacement cost depends on the new unit’s brand, size, and efficiency rating. Upgrading your air conditioner can be quite a hassle, but in the long run, it can save you money on energy bills and make your home more comfortable for everyone.

Factors That Affect HVAC Unit Replacement Cost

The cost of replacing an HVAC unit is affected by several factors. These include the following:

  1. Air Conditioner Manufacturers

There are several companies that manufacture air conditioning systems, and each of them has a different price range. It might seem like the cheapest option would be the best, but that’s not necessarily true.

Be mindful of some businesses that offer a lower price since they may not provide the level of service as others. So, take the time to research each company. You may find that some brands are more reliable and last longer than others.

  1. Ductwork

If you are planning on installing a central air conditioning system, you will need the necessary ducting. HVAC duct replacement costs between $2000 and $10,000 or more.

The main factors affecting ductwork costs are the size of your house and the distance between where the air conditioner is installed and the rooms where it’s needed. The longer the distance and larger your home, the more expensive it’s likely to be.

  1. Home and System Size

It’s important to ensure that your HVAC unit is the right size for your home. A system that is too small might work harder than it should, and it won’t be as efficient. On the other hand, an overly large HVAC unit may result in higher energy bills, uneven temperatures, and lack of humidity control. So, to guarantee that your home comfort system’s size is perfect, have an HVAC professional inspect your property.

If you’re facing issues with your current HVAC system, contact Roth Heating & Air today! We offer professional air conditioner repair, maintenance, and installation in Wichita, Kansas.

How much does an AC unit
installation cost

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AC unit installation cost

Factors That Affect AC Installation Costs

Decades ago, an air conditioning system was thought to be a luxury. But nowadays, people consider it a necessity, especially for those who live in a state with hot, muggy summers. Aside from keeping your room or home cool and reducing humidity, an AC unit also helps filter out pollutants and mold to improve indoor air quality.

If you’re planning to have an AC system installed in your new home or have your old one replaced, you’re probably wondering how much will an air conditioning installation cost. There are different factors that make the prices vary, such as:

House / Room Size

The floor area of your home is one of the major considerations when choosing the size and power of the AC you need. The specs of the unit will obviously make up a huge chunk of the cost and will also affect the price of installation charges.

Insulation and Natural Light

If your house is well-insulated, surrounded by trees, and has only a few windows facing west, then you might not need as large of an air conditioner as you would if the opposite conditions exist. You can improve your home’s insulation to reduce your heat load and possible the tonnage needed of you’re A/C.

System Type

Do you need a 3.5-ton central unit for the entire house or a ductless mini-split type system for the sun room or the baby’s room? Your lifestyle and preferences will determine your choice of AC system and, ultimately, your budget.

Energy Efficiency

Are you worried about your electricity bills spiking up with air conditioning? You can opt for the latest energy-efficient models, but they will most likely cost more upfront. Still, you can potentially save more money in the long run from lower monthly bills compared to using non-inverter variants.

Ductwork (If Applicable)

Should you opt for central or HVAC, don’t forget to factor in the cost of a well-designed duct network. This is a crucial component of an HVAC system, as it ensures proper airflow and helps filter out dirt and other contaminants.

The AC Service Provider That You Choose

A team of highly skilled AC installers can get the job done right the first time, which can help you avoid additional installation charges. They will also ensure that your system runs smoothly to prevent premature wear.

To have your home surveyed and estimated for air conditioning installation costs, contact Roth Heating and Air in Wichita, Kansas. Our team of professional AC technicians can visit you to assess your needs and give you reasonable quotations. We also offer financing for new installations.

Ways to Reduce Your AC Bills
and Save Money

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Reduce Your AC Bills

It would be great if you could constantly keep your air conditioning unit switched on, especially during the summer. Though you might be tempted to do so, you still need to consider how your AC usage can affect your electrical bills. Still, there are energy-saving practices you can do when you keep your cooling system running in your home. Here are several tips you can consider to save money on air conditioning bills:

Keep Your House Comfortable

When using the AC unit, always keep doors and windows shut. Opening your windows at night lets humidity into your house and requires your A/C to work harder to remove the humidity drawn in through your windows. Apply weather strips on these openings to prevent hot, humid air from being pulled into your house.

Set Your Thermostat at 78 °F

The ideal energy-saving temperature depends on the climate of where you live. You can lower your electricity consumption by owning a set-back style thermostat. An optimum setting for most climates for the thermostat is 78 °F when you are at home. If you have a set-back stat, you can have it set-back (warmer) a few degrees when you aren’t home. Too large of a set-back will require the A/C to work too hard to drop the temperature down when you return home.

Avoid Adding Extra Heat to Your Home

Refrain from using the stove, oven, dishwasher, and iron to maintain a low indoor temperature. Cook your food with the microwave or outdoor grill. It would also be advisable to wash dishes manually. Ideally, it would be better to utilize these appliances in the evening when it’s cooler instead of in the middle of the day. Also, turn off computers, televisions, and other electrical devices when you don’t use them.

Use a Fan When the AC Is On

An efficient method of decreasing energy consumption is by setting your fan to the “ON” position on the stat, instead of the “AUTO” position. You won’t have to keep lowering the temperature in the house because the fan makes the air cooler. Also, a portable fan can distribute cooler feeling air to all parts of the room.

Hire an HVAC Professional for AC Cleaning and Maintenance
Ducts and vents accumulate dust particles over time, making your AC unit consume more electricity when cooling the room. This can shorten your cooling system’s lifespan and increases its chance of malfunctioning and needing repair. Avoid these issues and save money on air conditioning costs by scheduling a Power Vac Duct Cleaning and also having regular AC cleaning and maintenance.

If you want to hire a skilled HVAC technician in Wichita, KS to perform these tasks for your device, contact Roth Heating & Air. Get in touch with us to learn more about our residential AC services.

How Often Should You Change Your Air Conditioner Filters?

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How Often Should You Change Your Air Conditioner Filters?

Changing your air conditioning filters is one of the best ways to prolong the lifespan of your AC and promote clean indoor air quality. So, how often should you get them changed? Read on to find out how frequently you should get an air filter replacement.

How Often Should You Have Them Changed?

Typically, you should get your air conditioning filters changed every three months. However, there are other factors to consider when it comes to how frequently you should replace them.

  • Pets – Whenever your furry friends shed, their fur can get inside the air filters and clog them up. Because of this, it’s best to get them changed every two months. When the seasons transition, pets tend to shed more. So, make sure to get an air filter replacement when the seasons change, from winter to spring or summer to fall.
  • Children – If there are infants or children at home, you need to provide them with protection by keeping your air quality clean. Allergens and pollutants in the air can affect the development of their lungs, brain, and immune system. Have your filter changed every 2 or 3 months.
  • Allergies – Poor indoor air quality can also be harmful to people who have allergies. To prevent the circulation of allergens around your home, get your air filter changed every six weeks.

How Can You Tell That You Need a New Filter?

Perhaps, there are times when you forget to keep track of your air filter replacement schedule. One simple trick to tell when it’s time to have it changed is to hold it up to a light source. If you see light passing through, this signifies that they’re still clean. However, if no light passes through, this indicates that your filter is too dirty and it’s time to get a new one.

What Happens if You Don’t Get Them Changed?

Over time, dust and debris will build up and clog your filter. This will affect your air conditioning system as it will need to work harder to function properly. This can also result in excessive energy consumption and an increase in your electricity bills. Most importantly, this will compromise your safety as the contaminants from your filters will circulate in the air.

Get an Air Filter Replacement With Roth Heating & Air
Are you looking for an air filter replacement in Wichita, KS? Contact Roth Heating & Air. We offer maintenance plans that will keep you on track with your air filter changing schedule. Call us today to learn more about our services and other AC products.

Heat Pumps vs. Air Conditioners: Which One Should You Get?

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Heat Pumps vs. Air Conditioners: Which One Should You Get?

It may be time to buy a new cooling system. Both an air conditioner and a heat pump will make a good choice. However, you may ask yourself this: which one will work better for my home? Read on to learn more about the similarities and differences between heat pumps vs. air conditioners to help you decide on which to purchase.

What Makes Them Similar?

A heat pump and an air conditioner are both used as cooling systems. The two units absorb heat from indoors and move it outside. This is what brings down the temperature inside your home.

What Makes Them Different?

Although they both provide you with cool air, a heat pump is the only one between the two that can also give you warmth. It has a switch you can flip to change from cooling to heating mode. A heat pump gets warm air from the outdoors, even if it’s cold outside, and brings it indoors. The hot air is then released to bring the temperature up inside your home.

Which One Should You Get?

You may be wondering about other factors that can affect your purchase. Here are other things that you can consider when it comes to getting a heat pump or air conditioner:

  • Cost of Expenses – Generally, a heat pump has a higher upfront cost. This is because it provides you with more functions compared to an AC.

 

  • Energy-Efficiency – This can be judged by Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) ratings. Both a heat pump and air conditioner have units that rank high, which means that they are both energy-efficient. However, energy consumption can also depend on your location. For example, if you live in an area that experiences extremely cold winters, your heat pump will need to work harder to get hot air from outside to indoors.

 

  • Longevity – Air conditioners typically have a longer life span than heat pumps. This is because AC units are normally used during warm seasons only. On the other hand, since heat pumps can provide both heating and cooling, they tend to be utilized all year round.

Get Heating and AC Assistance With Roth Heating & Air

After reading about heat pumps vs. air conditioners, have you decided on which unit works better for you? If you haven’t yet, our team at Roth Heating & Air can help you with that. Just give us a call, so we can assist you in picking out the right HVAC system for your home. You can also browse our store for heat pump and AC products that you may need.

What To Know About Finding Your Optimal Sleep Temperature

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Optimal Sleep Temperature

Did you know that temperature is one of the biggest factors that affects the quality of your sleep? So, if you find yourself tossing and turning in bed at night, this can be because your room is either too hot or too cold. Read on to find out how to achieve your optimal sleep temperature. Also, learn about the advantages of sleeping at the right level of coolness.

What Is the Best Sleep Temperature?

Ideally, your optimal sleep temperature should be at 65°F. This is because, throughout the day, your body goes through a circadian rhythm. This is when your body’s internal temperature cools down by bringing out heat from your body. At night, you may notice that your hands and feet may feel a bit hotter. This is because warmth is shed out from your body through the expansion of blood vessels in your skin.

What Happens When It’s Too Hot or Cold?

When your room is not at its ideal temperature, this can make you restless. When you’re uneasy, this can disrupt Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep. This is important in helping you feel well-rested and energetic when you wake up. REM sleep also promotes healthy brain development. The better sleep quality you have, the more you’ll be able to retain memories and other information.

How Can You Achieve Your Ideal Sleep Temperature?

One of the best ways to achieve your desired room temperature is to install a smart thermostat. Doing so will allow you to schedule when you want your room to cool down. Through the thermostat’s advanced technology, this device can detect when there’s a movement going on around your room. When it begins to sense that the movement is dying down, it can automatically start to cool down your room.

Through this thermostat, you can also conveniently control the room temperature from your smartphone or tablet. All you need to do is to download an app and adjust the settings as needed.

Get Automated Thermostats From Roth Heating & Air

Are you looking for home automation AC thermostats? Contact our team at Roth Heating & Air. We offer these products to commercial and residential clients to help you achieve your optimal sleep temperature every night. Have a well-rested evening by installing our air conditioning thermostats today.

Your HVAC Maintenance Checklist

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HVAC Maintenance Checklist

Here’s an HVAC maintenance checklist that you can use to keep your heating and cooling systems up and running more efficiently. Following this will help prolong your units’ lifespan and keep them working efficiently.

  1. Change the Air Filters

If your HVAC systems are constantly in use, dirt and other debris will eventually get caught in the air filters. When there’s too much accumulation of these, it can make the filters clogged. The general rule is to have them changed every 30 to 90 days. Doing this will ensure that your systems produce clean air and the right amount of airflow.

  1. Clear Out Debris Around Outdoor HVAC Systems

Aside from getting inside your units, debris such as pollen, twigs, and leaves can also accumulate around and on top of your outdoor HVAC systems. You can quickly fix this by clearing this debris from around your AC. A good rule of thumb is to ensure that the parameters are clean within two feet of your AC units and heat pumps. This will help them pull in and release air much more smoothly.

  1. Inspect Refrigerant Lines

You can find two copper lines connecting your outdoor units to your indoor evaporator coil; these are your refrigerant lines. At least once a month, it’s essential to check them out for any signs of tear or leakages. When these are damaged, your HVAC unit won’t be able to produce enough heat or cool air into your home. In this case, you’ll need to call a skilled technician to have them replaced properly.

  1. Shut Off the Furnace’s Humidifier’s Water Supply

You should turn off the water supply to your furnace’s humidifier during the summer. Use it only in the colder seasons, like fall and winter. Your air conditioner works to pull the humidity out of your house, so adding humidity back in with the humidifier while your AC is running will cause added strain on your AC as well as your pocketbook.

Get a Maintenance Plan with Roth Heating & Air
After following this HVAC maintenance checklist, it’s best to contact professional technicians for further inspection and expert repair. They will have your systems checked for other potential issues and provide you with solutions that a regular homeowner may not be able to execute.

For HVAC maintenance and repair, contact Roth Heating & Air. Our team of professional technicians can provide you with a maintenance plan to ensure that you’re on schedule when it comes to taking care of your heating and cooling systems. Give us a call today to learn more about our services.

Common Air Conditioner Problems and Their Solutions

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common air conditioner problems

An air conditioning malfunction can be such an inconvenience, especially if it’s a hot day. To ensure that you know what to do when it happens, read on to learn about common air conditioner problems and solutions.

Your AC Does Not Turn On
When your AC no longer turns on, the thermostat’s batteries can be an issue. For dead batteries, you can switch them out with new ones. However, batteries that still have juice in them can be used.

Browse through your thermostat manual to learn how to double-check its settings. Make sure that it’s turned on to cooling mode. You can also try resetting the circuit breaker if it is tripped.

Your AC Doesn’t Blow Cold Air
You may experience switching your air conditioner on and after a while, notice that it hasn’t cooled off your room yet. This can be due to a dirty air filter. To fix it, you should have it cleaned every two weeks or switched out every two months.

Your AC Leaks
Every homeowner has probably experienced a leaking air conditioner. This happens when your drains are clogged with too many algae or fungi buildup. You can fix this by making your own cleaning solutions at home.

One example is to pour a few ounces of vinegar inside the drain line. The vinegar acts as an agent that kills the algae and fungi inside. If it doesn’t work, you can also use a vacuum to unclog the drain.

Reach Out to Experts for Best Results
The best way to fix common air conditioner problems is to get help from professionals. You may think that AC repair can be costly; however, regular maintenance is important to prevent your air conditioning system from breaking down.

If you’re interested in learning more about air conditioner problems and solutions, browse through our page at Roth Heating & Air. Our team also provides residential and commercial services to clients in Wichita, Kansas. Give us a call today, and we’ll make sure to effectively repair any issues your air conditioning unit is experiencing.