With the big snow coming, its a good idea to go outside later today and make sure your high-efficiency heating and water-heater exhausts are not covered in snow.
Our modern equipment often vents through the side of the house, not up a tall chimney, and these vents typically have an exhaust and a fresh air intake. It only takes a few minutes to keep them clear of snow, which can cause problems and a safety hazard.
Here’s a good article with more information:
Our friends at JB Smith heating completed instalation of a high-efficiency ductless mini split heat pump on a current project.
When installed right, these units are pretty incredible. They are extremely energy efficient, super-quiet and the heat-pump models we specify provide both Cooling and Heating!
Sizing and installation of these units for heating is critical for proper performance. Also note how we mount it on a wall bracket above the typical snow level so in winter it can work properly. In summer, these units have a “dry” mode where they provide extra dehumidification while cooling.
In a well-insulated home, these units offer heating and cooling at a cost below propane (for heating) and offer extra comfort because they use inverter technology to adjust the operating speed and output according to the need of the space. You don’t have the Hot / Cold shock of conventional forced air systems.
As a matter of fact, we can design and build homes that are so energy-efficient we can use these units to provide all the heating and cooling needs – ideal if you want to use solar energy for a net zero home!
