Is your home under-insulated, and did you know it could affect how your HVAC system cools? As a Florida homeowner, you need to be aware of a variety of AC FAQs and home maintenance repairs to get you through our blistering summers. These repairs, such as insulation, ensure your home’s systems are performing at its highest potential. Did you know insulation affects your home’s ability to heat or cool the rooms in your home? Here are the facts you need to know about having a well-insulated home.
Signs Your Home is Under-Insulated
Significant Change in Room Temperatures
Poorly insulated rooms are often located below the attic or above the garage. Are there rooms in your home that are colder or hotter than other places? If the ventilation is working correctly, inadequate insulation is the problem.
Water in the Attic
Poor home insulation is an invitation for water to enter your home. Signs of a water leak include puddles of water, water damage, and more. Leaks cause issues with mold and mildew and can be expensive to repair.
Expensive Energy Bills
High energy bills are a common indication there is an issue with the insulation. Take a look at your energy bills from the last few months to now and see if you notice a significant increase in the bill. Your energy bill can increase due to the insulation settling in the attic, making it less effective.
Benefits of a Well-Insulated Home Florida Home
Reduced Carbon Footprint
If “going green” interests you, you’ll want to make sure your insulation is installed correctly. Proper insulation prevents high energy use and produces fewer emissions. You will certainly do your part to help the environment.
Improved Sound
Sufficient insulation makes your home the perfect place to relax and unwind by absorbing sound. High-quality insulation is the ideal solution for drowning out snoring or a good movie you have to watch using surround sound.
Increased Resale Value
Are you considering selling your home in the next few years? New and professionally installed insulation attracts more buyers. Professionally installed insulation shows buyers you take care of your home and properly maintain it. New insulation is the difference between selling your home quickly and waiting for it to sell.
Massive Energy Savings
If your home is under-insulated, your home is losing over 15 percent of its energy. When your home is adequately insulated, your heater and air conditioner do not have to struggle to heat or cool your home, which makes your home a cool place to be during the humid Florida summers. Your energy bill will decrease dramatically because heat and air are no longer escaping through the insulation.
Comfort
A house may not feel like home unless you are comfortable. Proper insulation ensures your home remains cool in the summer when the temperatures exceed 90 degrees, and warm when the Florida weather reaches nippy temperatures that are below 70 degrees.
Overall Improvement of Your Home
When the insulation in your home is installed correctly, it works as it should, which means your cooling and heating system work better. Costly damages caused by rodents and bugs entering your home due to subpar insulation are a thing of the past with the professional installation of insulation.
Peace of Mind
You can relax when you know your home is safe. You don’t have to cringe when you receive your utility bill. You can enjoy your home the way it was intended when you have proper insulation.
Blown-In Insulation vs. Foam Insulation
Blown-in insulation
- Is “blown” in small pieces by use of a machine
- Uses fiberglass and cellulose as insulation material
- Cellulose is environmentally friendly and made from recycled paper
- Requires professional installation
- Lasts more than ten years
Foam insulation
- Fills in gaps, cracks, and crevices by expanding ten times its size
- Provides an effective barrier against moisture
- Helps with the prevention of mildew and mold
- Requires professionals for installation
- Lasts over ten years
AC FAQs
How many times a year should I change my air filters?
If you have pets in your home, change your HVAC air filters every 30 days. If no pets live in your home, change your air filter every 90 days.
What happens if I avoid AC maintenance or air conditioning service repair?
Avoiding AC maintenance causes your air conditioning system’s performance to decline and increases your energy expenses. An AC unit requires proper annual preventive maintenance of the filter, coils, and other parts to increase its longevity and performance.
How much can proper home improvement and maintenance save me?
Maintenance of your AC system saves hundreds, if not thousands of dollars each year. The cost of maintenance may seem steep, but the price will be astronomical if maintenance and repairs are not made promptly.
When should I consider replacing my air conditioner?
If your air conditioner exceeds ten years old, frequently breaks down or malfunctions, you should consider the installation of a new AC system. If the repairs of your AC system exceeds the cost of a new AC unit, you need to replace your HVAC system.
If I purchase a new air conditioner, how long will it last?
A new AC system lasts more than 12 years when properly maintained.
Is there air conditioning repair near me?
American Air Cares provides guaranteed air conditioning services in Palm City and the surrounding areas of Port St. Lucie, Indian River, and Martin County, Florida. Feel free to get in touch so we can help!
