Emergency Furnace Repair: 5 Signs It’s Time to Call an Expert

Emergency Furnace Repair: 5 Signs It’s Time to Call an Expert

We rely on our furnaces to keep us safe and warm throughout the long winter months, but emergency furnace repair services can pop up from time to time. When temperatures drop below zero and snow drifts start to pile up, a functional, dependable furnace is a lifesaver. But a malfunctioning furnace or HVAC can put us (and our families) in potentially life-threatening situations—from house fires to carbon monoxide poisoning.

In general, furnaces are totally safe, and safety issues are rare. However, occasionally, a furnace problem can arise and lead to more serious emergencies that can cause some damage to your wallet, health, and home. Fortunately, there are “symptoms” to watch out for. We created a list of five warning signs that you may need emergency repair services. If you notice any of these issues, call our team for an emergency furnace repair to keep your home safe and toasty warm. Our team specializes in Bozeman HVAC repair services, and we can help quickly diagnose and resolve furnace emergencies. In case of an emergency, contact us here or call our Mountain Heating & Cooling team at (406) 586-4007.

5 Signs You Need an Emergency Furnace Repair

Sign #1 — Your furnace is running improperly

Is your furnace cycling too quickly, turning on and off when it should run more continuously, or not shutting off the fan? Maybe your furnace is only blowing cold air or won’t turn on at all. If these problems are not being caused by a thermostat setting issue (like the fan being set to “on” rather than “auto”), it’s time to call an HVAC repairman. A professional can quickly diagnose and fix the issue, whether it’s a mechanical problem, an electrical failure, a thermostat issue, or something with the furnace itself.

Sign #2 — There’s a strange or unpleasant smell coming from the furnace or vents

A musty or “off” odor could be caused by a simple issue with an easy fix, such as replacing the air filter or getting the ducts cleaned. But smells like smoke, rotten eggs, burning plastic, metal, or chemicals are often signs that it’s time to reach out to an emergency furnace repair professional.

A Rotten egg or a sulfur-like smell is a major indicator of furnace issues since this smell often indicates a natural gas leak. Because natural gas is odorless, gas companies add a harmless chemical called mercaptan to ensure leaks are easy to detect. Natural gas leaks can cause fires or explosions with little warning. So if you smell this odor, leave the house with your family and pets right away, and don’t turn lights on and off or plug things in (sparks can be dangerous with this combustible gas). Once you’re safely away from the house, call your utility company and the fire department, and they will tell you what to do next.

Other smells may indicate major furnace issues but don’t carry as much immediate danger. For example, a metallic smell might mean your furnace is overheating. If you smell a burning metallic odor from your furnace, turn it off and call an HVAC repair technician. A chemical or formaldehyde-like smell could be a sign of cracks in the furnace’s heat exchanger. Contact a professional HVAC repairman immediately to ensure there’s no risk of carbon monoxide poisoning or other issues.

Sign #3 — The furnace has a yellow or orange flame instead of blue.

When a natural gas furnace is functioning correctly, the pilot light will appear blue. Efficient combustion creates a hot, blue flame, often with a light blue triangle at its center. This indicates that a furnace is in good working order with complete gas combustion.

If a pilot flame is yellow or orange, that can indicate incomplete or ineffective combustion. This might happen with an older furnace nearing the end of its lifespan, or it might just mean a furnace is due for a cleaning, part replacement, or repair. Sustained yellow or orange flames can indicate the possibility of a carbon monoxide leak. In these cases, it’s best to turn off your HVAC system and contact a Bozeman HVAC repairman.

Sign #4 — You notice puddles, steam, or condensation around the furnace

Is your furnace creating steam, condensation, or pooling water? Any of these symptoms mean that the furnace or boiler has sprung a leak or has a valve issue. A properly functioning furnace will not create condensation—modern furnaces use cooling exhaust to increase their energy efficiency, and the moisture gets vented away before it has a chance to condense and pool up. But a puddle means it’s time for furnace repair. Typically, this type of issue can be easily resolved, but if it traces back to the heat exchanger, it can be a more serious problem.

Sign #5 — A carbon monoxide detector is going off

Any time a carbon monoxide detector goes off, it’s vital to pay attention, take it seriously, and take safe action. If ignored or unnoticed, carbon monoxide can cause sickness and even death. Every year, it kills hundreds of people and makes thousands of others ill. If your detector has been triggered, it may be due to any number of issues—whatever the cause, it’s critical to get the problem addressed immediately and schedule an emergency furnace repair.

Your Trusted Bozeman Heating and Cooling Specialists for Emergency Furnace Repair

When your furnace is malfunctioning or you notice any of these warning signs, we recommend reaching out to the professionals immediately. Scheduling emergency heating repairs is more than a matter of comfort and convenience; it’s key to keeping you, your family, and your house safe.

We recommend seasonal HVAC checkups and routine cleanings to help prevent furnace emergencies before they happen. With all home systems, it’s normal for equipment and components to deteriorate over the years, but proactive maintenance can help prevent avoidable failures. If you are wondering if your furnace is due for a checkup, reach out to get scheduled with a pro from Mountain Heating & Cooling.

Our experienced Bozeman HVAC repair technicians specialize in accurately diagnosing and repairing all types of furnace issues. Mountain Heating & Cooling works hard to provide prompt and professional service — because should an emergency arise, you deserve the peace of mind that you’re well taken care of. We are always here to help with any issue, large or small.

Single Stage vs Two Stage vs Variable Speed Furnace: Which is Best for Your Home?

Single Stage vs Two Stage vs Variable Speed Furnace: Which is Best for Your Home?

Whether you’re shopping for a furnace for the first time, looking for an upgrade, or just exploring your options, it can feel overwhelming to know where to start. We’re breaking down the differences between single stage vs two stage vs variable speed furnaces to help you decide which is best for your home.

Topics

Single Stage vs Two Stage vs Variable Speed Furnace — How Do They Work?

To understand the difference between your single stage vs two stage vs variable speed furnace options, it’s helpful to know the basics about how a furnace regulates temperature in a home.

A furnace’s capacity is measured in BTU output, otherwise known as heat output. Your furnace’s capacity is based on the coldest days in your region. If you live in a cold area, as we do here in Montana, your home will (or need) a furnace with a higher capacity. Some furnaces run only at 100% capacity—they operate at full capacity for a few minutes, then cycle off, then cycle back on again. Other furnaces can operate at different capacities, allowing them to blow air that’s “hotter” rather than “hottest.” A furnace is classified as single stage, two stage, or variable speed based on how many power levels it can run.

Pros and Cons

Single Stage Furnace

A single stage furnace is the simplest type of furnace with just two settings: on or off. That means it runs at full capacity or not at all.

Pros

A primary advantage of a single stage furnace is the lower price point. Single stage furnaces have simpler communication needs, so the cost for smart thermostats can be less.

Cons

One of the drawbacks of single stage furnaces is that when they are used to heat a large or multistory home the ambient air temperature can vary widely by floor. Because the furnace operates at full capacity for every cycle, the air temperature nearest vents warms up faster than areas further away. The challenge is the location of the thermostat in relation to the varying temperatures of the rooms throughout the house. The thermostat might “think” the entire house is at the temperature you’ve selected on your thermostat and shut down the furnace cycle too soon, leaving cold spots and even cold rooms further away from the vents.

In addition, a single stage furnace starts blowing at full blast as soon as it turns on. While it heats areas quickly overall, some air that’s not fully warmed is blown into your living spaces at the start of each heating cycle. The noise of this fan speed, particularly in a poorly-designed duct system, often can cause a need for higher TV volumes or dinner conversations. Since they only operate at one level, single stage furnaces tend to use power less efficiently—the same as if you were to only drive your car at 100mph versus cruising the highway at a gas-friendly 75mph. The START/STOP of the fan is particularly efficient.

Two Stage Furnace

Two stage furnaces, also called dual stage furnaces, have three settings: low mode, high mode, and off. Two stage furnaces typically run on low mode and kick into gear only when the weather is cold enough or it needs to create more heat to accomplish a large gap from the current temperature to the requested thermostat set point. On milder days, two stage furnaces decrease their output from 100% BTUs to a lower setting, adjusting both the amount of energy being used and the blower fan intensity. The result is that they can run longer and maintain a thermostat setting with more accuracy. They also boast improved efficiency and quieter fan heat and cool cycles.

Pros

Along with efficiency, accuracy, and quieter cycles, an added benefit of two stage furnace systems comes from the longer runtime. The longer runtime moves more air through the filter throughout the day, cleaning out allergens, dust, and other debris. What this means is that it creates more comfort in a wider range of rooms in your home.

Two stage furnaces typically cost more than single stage, but for a good reason. They can warm a larger or multistory home much more evenly, consistently, and with better cost-efficiency. A more significant investment here can significantly lower your heating bill in the long run.

Cons

Two stage furnaces are generally a solid choice for most homeowners, but they cost more than single stage. They also will require a new thermostat if you are transitioning from a single stage furnace in order to control the additional low-to-high fan options being added to your home.

Variable Speed Furnace

This is the most comfortable and efficient of the three furnace styles. Similar to two stage furnaces, variable furnaces can cycle at different capacities for the highest possible comfort level in your home.

Pros

If one stage makes a home comfortable, and two stages make it even better, multiple stages can create true luxury, with steady temperature and even heat—no cold or hot spots throughout the home, and no spikes in temperature throughout the day. Depending on the model, variable furnaces can produce heat at anywhere from 100% capacity to as low as 40%.

With a variable speed furnace, you will never be limited in your future choices for air conditioning, zoning, or air filtration. A variable speed furnace can work with a single speed air conditioner, provide year-round comfort for your home, allows for more consistent air flow throughout the home, and provides better air filtration.

Cons

The drawbacks of variable furnaces are primarily in their price point. You’ll want to make sure you choose a reputable contractor who’s able to set up the furnace controls so you reap the benefits of the furnace. We’ve often gone into homes where customers have a top-of-the-line furnace with a thermostat that was miswired or not programmed to match their variable speed furnace.

How to Choose Which is Best for You

Single stage furnaces are a good choice for budget-conscious buyers heating a small to medium-sized, single-story home. These furnaces are simple and highly reliable, heating your space with less of an upfront investment on equipment.

Two stage furnaces increase the comfort and efficiency factors, making them an excellent midrange option for larger or multistory homes. These furnaces can help decrease heating bills with more consistent ambient temperature from steady, warm airflow.

Variable speed furnaces are the highest efficiency models, heating a household with fine-tuned capabilities. These are investment pieces that deliver predictable returns when it comes to maximizing comfort and are less of an investment in the monthly costs of heating and cooling your home.

Choosing between a single stage vs two stage vs variable speed furnace will depend on your budget, the size of your home, and your desired comfort level.

If you’re still considering your best option for Bozeman furnace installation, Mountain Heating & Cooling can help. As your local HVAC experts, we understand the heating needs of homeowners in the Gallatin Valley and beyond. We specialize in Trane furnace installation and servicing, helping you take advantage of the most reliable, high-quality HVAC systems on the market. Whether you’re looking for a Trane single stage furnace, a two stage model, or a variable speed system to heat your home, we’re here to help you navigate the decision with confidence. You can depend on our friendly, respectful team with extensive HVAC training to deliver the quality service you and your family deserve.

Schedule a HVAC Consultation Today

Reach out to our team today with questions about choosing a furnace for your home, or schedule an appointment with our team. We’re here to make your home safe and comfortable year-round.

Hiring an HVAC Contractor? Watch out for These Red Flags

Hiring an HVAC Contractor? Watch out for These Red Flags

Bozeman is growing, and with that growth comes new construction. From residential to commercial construction and remodels, every successful project depends on specialist expertise to deliver great results. HVAC installation is part of every build. However, not all HVAC contractors are the same.

Are you looking to hire a Bozeman HVAC contractor for your remodel or construction project? Our Mountain Heating & Cooling team has put together a list of essential questions to consider to help you confidently hire skilled, reliable, and professional Bozeman HVAC contractors (and avoid bad contractors that lead to additional time, money, or headaches).

5 Red Flags to Watch Out for When Hiring an HVAC Contractor

Red flag #1: They’re a one-person show

While a one-person company may claim the benefits of being nimble, flexible, and adaptable, the truth is one person has limited bandwidth compared to a team of technicians. It’s harder for a single contractor to be available should any issues come up at the last minute. And even if they’re brilliant and experienced, every project benefits from a variety of talent, experience, and diverse skill sets. The quality of an install is driven by the utilization—and understanding—of new, emerging technologies, so it’s hard for a single person to stay on top of the evolving market.

Green flag: They’re a dedicated team with the benefits of greater bandwidth, a customer service contact, and multiple areas of expertise.

Red flag #2: They’re not licensed, insured, or certified.

A solid, reputable HVAC contractor shouldn’t hesitate to provide you with proof of insurance and licensure. When it comes to HVAC service and other home maintenance, a lack of insurance can escalate issues like property damage and injury into major liabilities. If your HVAC contractor isn’t insured and licensed, they’re not guaranteed to know and follow building codes, which exist to protect you, your family, and your home.

While certifications aren’t necessary, they show continued education to gain broad and specific subject-matter expertise.

Green flag: A good HVAC contractor will be proud to highlight their certifications, and they’ll definitely provide proof of licensure and individual and business insurance coverage.

Red flag #3: They have bad reviews or no references.

Bozeman may be growing, but it’s still an interconnected community. Personal relationships are key. References establish personal and professional reliability and give you a picture of past work successes or hiccups.

Ideally, you’ll be working with a company with at least some online presence, such as a Google Business Profile, Facebook business page, or even Yelp or Houzz profile. Check out their online reviews. Note that all businesses, even the best ones, will receive a negative review once in a while. But too many low opinions add up to signal lingering issues.

Pay attention, in particular, to whether the same complaints come up in multiple reviews. Did the company respond to their negative reviews? What did they say? Don’t be shy to bring up negative reviews with the company directly. There are always two sides to the story, and a company with transparency about past mistakes or issues could be even more trustworthy and valuable to your project than one with a seemingly squeaky-clean online reputation.

Green flag: They offer easy-to-contact professional references, and you can find positive reviews of their company online.

Red flag #4: They have poor communication.

In our hyper-digital world, tradespeople may be some of the few who aren’t connected to the web 24/7. For example, when you’re elbow-deep in a complex furnace installation, you don’t want to be distracted by emails. If you choose your HVAC contractors well, they’ll have a dedicated team member who handles scheduling and communication, meaning someone will always be available to get a technician to your home. But if a company shows lengthy delays in their response times with no explanation or only offers vague explanations of quotes, pricing, or services, that may be your sign to look elsewhere.

Green flag: They communicate promptly, proactively, and professionally.

Red flag #5: They have an extremely low quoted bid.

Are you comparison shopping? Competitive bids are one thing, but outlier lowball cost estimates are a sure red flag. Remember: if it seems too good to be true, it usually is. A very low bid may only be possible through very low overhead—e.g., a company may not invest in quality equipment, dedicated staff power, or experienced HVAC technicians.

Green flag: Their bid is attractive but within the range of reasonable.

Contact Our Team for Reliable HVAC Contractors

The bottom line is that no matter the scope of your HVAC service needs, working with good Bozeman HVAC contractors pays dividends. At Mountain Heating & Cooling, we are proud to provide quality, trustworthy service at every step—from installation to communication. Please reach out to us to discuss your project needs!

What is a Heat Pump & Why Choose One for Your Home

What is a Heat Pump & Why Choose One for Your Home

The seasons are changing in Montana and so is the way many folks heat their homes. Why? The recently passed Inflation Reduction Act has opened up to $2,000 in tax credit for new heat pump installs. Not only are heat pumps climate-friendly and capable of decreasing home energy costs, but as of January 1st, 2023, installing a heat pump makes homeowners eligible for thousands of dollars in tax credits and rebates.

You might be thinking, “tax credits sound great, but what is a heat pump?” Heat pumps are an all-in-one home heating and cooling system. Energy-efficient and cost-effective, heat pumps provide reliable, year-round heating and cooling, which can help lower your utility bills and carbon footprint. Because they don’t rely on fossil fuels, heat pumps are also more sustainable than traditional home heating systems like furnaces, boilers, or baseboard heat, as well as most air conditioners.

Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act and recent advances in heat pump technologies, now is a great time to consider switching to a heat pump. Let’s dig into the details of heat pumps, this new legislation, and how you can benefit from it all!

What is a Heat Pump?

A heat pump is a heating and cooling system that redistributes heat from outside to inside (or inside to outside) using refrigerant, compression, expansion, and electricity to warm, cool, or maintain the temperature in your house. Heat pumps connect directly to your thermostat and regulate temperature by transferring heat in tandem with an air handler or furnace tied into ductwork or a fan coil mini split system.

There are a few kinds of heat pump systems available on the market, but the most popular models are called “split” heat pumps. This type of pump has two components—one outside the home, and one inside linked by pipes or ducts. Some split source heat pumps are “air-source”, meaning they transfer heat from the outside air. Others are ground-source, gathering and transferring heat from thermal energy in the ground.

How Does a Heat Pump Work?

Heat pumps work using simple principles of thermodynamics. Open your front door during a wintery day and you’ll feel warm air getting sucked outside; leave your door open too long on a hot summer day and your home’s cool air temp will rise as warmth from the outdoor heat moves in. Thermal energy—heat—moves naturally in one direction: from warm to cold.

A heat pump can also be thought of as a heat transporter. Heat pumps work by moving heat from where you don’t want or need it to where you do. In the summer, that might mean moving heat inside to outside your home. In the winter, the reverse is true.

Why Choose a Heat Pump over Other Heating Systems?

In the shoulder seasons, a heat pump will regulate your home’s air temperature warmer or colder, depending on your thermostat temperature settings, just like HVAC systems. However, instead of creating heat (like a gas combustion system) heat pumps simply transfer or redistribute existing heat. Rather than needing both an air conditioning unit and a furnace, choosing a heat pump means your home benefits from the simplicity (and cost savings) of an all-in-one system approach.

Many folks wonder if heat pumps are a good match for cold climates. In our opinion as trusted Bozeman HVAC contractors, the answer is yes! Heat pumps do not necessarily generate as many BTUs as traditional furnaces, but new cold-climate-specific models are highly reliable down to -20 degrees and 100% efficient below zero.

What Are the Advantages of Using a Heat Pump?

Heat pumps are very energy-efficient. In ideal conditions, heat pumps will transfer up to 300% more energy than they consume. In addition to heat, a heat pump can provide cooling benefits. An Air Source Heat Pump is essentially an air conditioner compressor that cools when in cooling mode or heats when there is a need for heat.

In contrast to a heat pump, a high-efficiency gas furnace would be around 95% efficient. Because heat pumps are powered by electricity, their fuel source is flexible —they don’t rely on fossil fuels to heat a home. They can also be sustainably powered by solar, geothermal, or hydroelectric energy, even tying directly into an off-grid home. In addition, heat pumps are safe, requiring no gas lines and producing no carbon monoxide.

How Much Will It Cost to Install My New Heating System?

Without accounting for tax credits and rebates, installing a heat pump, on average, may cost between $6,000 to $18,000. Trane heat pumps, trusted for their quality and reliability, are an excellent option for Montana homeowners looking to upgrade to a system that will last for decades. During the coldest months with an air source heat pump, there will need to be a supplemental heat source for outdoor temperatures between 20-30 degrees Fahrenheit and lower. Montana homeowners can count on approximately 80% of their year-long heat requirements coming from the heat pump’s air source heat and 15-20% coming from electric resistance heat, fireplaces, or gas-fired furnaces.

Once installed, a well-insulated home will see an average savings of 30% to 70% on energy costs. Because a heat pump is 2-3x more efficient than a gas furnace, the installation cost usually pays for itself in energy savings within 5-10 years.

What Are the Rebates I Can Receive for My New Heating System?

The Inflation Reducation Act included Heat Pump Provisions to help more homeowners afford energy-efficient heat pump systems through heat pump tax credits and rebates.

Through heat pump tax credits, the federal government is offering a dollar-for-dollar reduction in your owed income tax. This tax credit is good for 30% of the total cost of what you pay for a heat pump, up to $2,000 in total. This includes the system components and the cost of labor to install.
In addition to the tax credits, homeowners may be eligible for heat pump rebates good for up to $1,750 for a heat pump water heater and $8,000 for heat pumps for space heating and cooling.

All taxpayers qualify for the tax credit program, while eligibility for federal heat pump rebate programs depends on household income level.

  • Households making less than 80% of their state’s median household income are eligible for 100% of the rebates.
  • Households making between 80 and 150% of the median household income of their state are eligible for 50% of the rebates.
  • If your household income is equal to or greater than 150% of the state’s median, you’re not eligible for the rebates, but you still qualify for the tax credits.

In addition to the tax credits and rebates specific to heat pumps, you can also claim up to $1,200 in total tax credits per year on costs related to upgrading the energy efficiency of your home. This may include air-sealing systems, upgrading your electrical supply, and doing a home energy audit.

Similar to the heat pump rebates, qualifying households can claim thousands of dollars in state-administered rebates on electrification and efficiency upgrades related to installing your heat pump. A tax preparer can help you navigate and claim all the tax credits and rebates available to help offset the cost of a heat pump.

Want to Learn More? Ask Your Montana Heat Pump Experts

When it comes to improving your home’s energy efficiency and reducing your energy bill year-round, choosing a heat pump could be an ideal solution for keeping your home warm, comfortable, and climate-friendly. The long-term benefits might be even more attractive in the coming months, thanks to the rebates for heat pumps that can offset the cost of purchase and installation.

Whether you need a Heating and Cooling contractor to your existing unit for winter temperatures, or you want to learn more about what a heat pump is, what models are available, and heat pump maintenance, we’re always available to answer any questions you might have. Contact our team today to schedule an appointment or ask your heat pump rebate questions.

How to Keep Your HVAC Heating and Cooling Running Smooth

How to Keep Your HVAC Heating and Cooling Running Smooth

HVAC heating and cooling systems are complex but can run smoothly for many years without the need for replacement as long as they are regularly maintained and professionally serviced. Keeping your HVAC running smoothly is critical to maintaining a comfortable home temperature, but it’s also vital to protecting the quality of the air you breathe. When your HVAC unit runs as it should, your wallet will benefit too, with heating and cooling bills reflecting that energy-efficient functionality.

While smooth HVAC operation begins with proper system installation, you as a homeowner can help keep things in good working order. Check out our list of tips to keep your HVAC system running smoothly. If you have any questions, our team of experts at Mountain Heating and Cooling is always here to help—just drop us a line!

3 HVAC System Maintenance Tips for Homeowners

1. Change your filters regularly

Changing your HVAC filters is one of the easiest and most effective ways to keep your air clean and your HVAC heating and cooling running efficiently. Air filters are designed to clear out any allergens, smoke or dust particles, and other undesirable debris from the air circulating inside your home. When filters become clogged or dirty, the HVAC unit or air conditioner may have to work harder to move air. This wears down parts more quickly and can lead to easily-avoidable repairs.

Air filter replacement is simple and should be done every 30-90 days or whenever you notice the filters getting dirty. Filters need replacement more often during peak winter and summer months when your unit is working the hardest to regulate the indoor air temperature. Air filters may also need replacing more often during wildfire season when air quality is at its lowest. High-quality air filters last longer than cheaper ones and do a better job cleaning the air.

If you need a hand replacing your HVAC system’s air filters, schedule an appointment with our team of Bozeman heating and cooling specialists today.

2. Clear the area around your outdoor unit

Part of an HVAC heating and cooling system is an outdoor AC unit component. This outdoor component contains condenser coils, compressors, and a fan. Check your outdoor air conditioner unit to make sure the top, sides, and surrounding space around the unit are clear and free from leaves, twigs, plants, or other debris. You should also look for grass or weeds that might impact the unit’s operations and remove them immediately. By removing buildup that could disrupt air intake, the system will function better with less effort. This important preventative step helps your system run longer without having to service the air conditioner.

3. Clean the evaporator coil and condenser

Your air conditioner’s evaporator and condenser coils should be cleaned yearly as part of general maintenance. Regular cleanings help remove buildup and debris that can cause your system to run less efficiently and waste valuable air and energy. If you are not confident with removing and cleaning these parts of your air conditioner yourself (plus putting everything back together again), reach out to us to schedule an appointment. Cleaning these parts and others can be easily done as part of the seasonal service air conditioners need to run smoothly year-round.

While there are steps you, as a homeowner, can take to ensure your HVAC system runs smoothly, many times it takes an expert’s level of training and experience to ensure your home’s heating and cooling system is functioning as it should. As professionals, our Bozeman HVAC team has over 40 years of combined experience in the field of air conditioner maintenance, replacement, troubleshooting, and repair. Our services include but are not limited to the following:

  • Inspecting the filters, fan, motor, blower, and all other components of an air conditioner to ensure they are in excellent working order.
  • Checking the vents, air ducts, drain line, evaporator coil, and condenser for potential issues.
  • Testing the operational temperature of your HVAC heating and cooling units.
  • Checking the liquid levels of coolants and refrigerants.

Regular, professional maintenance is essential for a comfortable home temperature and clean air. It can help avoid the need for air conditioner replacement, which is often timely and costly if you aren’t prepared.

Is My HVAC Heating and Cooling System Malfunctioning? Common Signs to Look for.

A struggling system might be most noticeable during a hot, smoky summer or frigid winter, but it’s best to keep an eye on your HVAC year-round.

System malfunctions might show up in the following symptoms:

  • A sudden spike in your energy bill.
  • Vents that barely blow air.
  • An air conditioning unit that blows hot air instead of cold, or a furnace that blows cold instead of hot.
  • Loud or unusual noises coming from the AC or HVAC.
  • Ice on the compressor.

If your system shows any of the above signs, it might need professional attention. Our highly-trained professionals only deliver the best of the best work and provide insight you can trust, keeping your home air at a pleasant temperature no matter what the outside weather is doing. We’re able to quickly diagnose and repair problems to keep your HVAC serviced and running smoothly for years to come.

Need a Bozeman HVAC Expert’s Opinion? We’re Here to Help

We treat your home like our own, in that we go above and beyond to ensure every component of your HVAC system is running smoothly, safely, and efficiently. We value your and your loved one’s comfort, so we take the time to understand your home’s HVAC system to provide educated recommendations, quality services, and top-notch customer service. If your HVAC system needs some TLC or a regular checkup, schedule an appointment with Mountain Heating and Cooling today.

Quick Guide to Bozeman Air Conditioning Installation

Quick Guide to Bozeman Air Conditioning Installation

You’ve just purchased your first home in Bozeman—congratulations! Whether you’re building from the ground up or remodeling to make it the house of your dreams, you’ll need to consider air conditioning installation at some point. Air conditioning is no longer considered a luxury as it was several decades ago. To stay cool on the hottest Montana days, you’ll need an air conditioning unit tailored to your home’s specific cooling needs and designed for durability. In this quick guide, we’ll outline what’s involved with a basic A/C unit installation, costs, and what you should consider before hiring a technician to install an air conditioner.

It’s crucial to note that this is not a DIY guide. Air conditioning installation should always be done by a licensed professional. Our goal is to give you a brief overview of what to expect with a Bozeman air conditioning installation so you can make informed decisions about your HVAC system. We believe in arming our customers with the best information possible so they feel confident in their home care choices.

Quick Guide to Bozeman Air Conditioning Installation

What’s Involved in Air Conditioning Installation

The process of air conditioning installation can be broken down into four stages: the initial visit, the check-in with the installation team, the actual system installation, and the final cleanup and walk-through.

Initial Visit

During the initial visit, a Home Comfort Adviser will review your existing air conditioning system. Or, if you are currently in the building stage, they will go over what type of A/C unit would best suit the needs of the home’s floor plan. They will collect necessary information about your home and personal cooling needs to provide the most accurate estimate possible. The in-home assessment we provide includes a heat gain/loss calculation based on your specific home, measurements of the existing system, and a compatibility check on what types of equipment can be used to serve you. After the visit, you will be provided with estimates for one or more options to choose from. Once you agree on the estimate and installation proposal, you will schedule a time for an installation team to set up the new air conditioner in your home.

Installation Team Check-In

When the installation team arrives to install your air conditioning unit, they will share and review the job information with you. This way, you can see the full details of the job including equipment information and any special instructions given by you to the estimator. After taking a few moments to review the job information and sign off on the process, the installation team will start laying down drop cloths and other protective equipment to keep your home safe and clean. They will also turn off the gas supply and electrical circuits connected to the existing HVAC system.

System Installation

Air conditioning installation is a very involved process, so only trained professionals should install an A/C unit. For an air conditioning replacement, your installation team will remove the existing air conditioner (if applicable), safely reclaim and recycle any refrigerant, and prepare the area for the new air conditioner unit. Preparing the area may include leveling the ground and replacing the pad the unit will be set on. Then, the new unit is installed, which includes installing new indoor evaporator coils, placing new copper refrigerant lines, setting up the new air conditioner condenser, etc. On average, air conditioner system installation takes about eight hours in total.

Final Cleanup/Walk-through

After installation is complete, the team will remove any old equipment, clean up the work area, restore power and gas to the unit, and ensure your home is spotless after they leave. As a TRANE and Mitsubishi Dealer, we do a factor “Start Up” of your new equipment to validate the proper operation, refrigerant levels, and expected performance, which includes testing and adjusting fan speeds and refrigerant levels if instructed. Your installers will also walk you through the work completed and go over any special instructions, safety, maintenance, etc. After this, signatures and payments are collected.

Air Conditioning Installation Costs

The total price of air conditioning installation varies depending on the project. On average, installing a new air conditioner will cost roughly between $5,000 and $15,000. A variety of factors go into the price of an installation project but typically include the following:

  • New vs Replacement – An entirely new air conditioning system requiring ductwork will typically cost more than only replacing the air conditioning unit.
  • Comfort Level – Everyone has different levels of desired cooling comfort for their home. Whether you rarely turn on the A/C or love the constant cool, your ideal comfort level will contribute to the type of air conditioner unit you choose and how many rooms you need cool air to flow to.
  • Home Efficiency – If your home is efficiently designed, it may already do a great job naturally staying cool in the hotter months. However, if you have poor insulation and lots of natural light, you may need a more robust air conditioner to keep your home cool.
  • Desired Efficiency – Air conditioners with high energy efficiency typically cost more upfront, but they can save you more money on your utility bills in the long run.
  • Noise Level – Different A/C unit models have different levels of noise they put out, so you will want to choose a system that fits your desired level of quiet.
  • Choice of System – Depending on your system of choice, a central A/C unit may cost between $5,000 and $13,000. The system you choose depends on your budget and home’s needs.
  • Square Footage – Your home’s size will determine the size of the air conditioning unit you need for it. Larger homes need more powerful systems to cool the entire home. An HVAC professional can help you determine which size of air conditioning unit best fits your home’s size by providing an ACCA-approved load calculation.
  • Consideration of Heating – An alternative to a standard air conditioner is a heat pump. With a heat pump, you can heat and cool your home. As you plan for efficiency and reducing your carbon footprint, a heat pump can help improve your home’s comfort and efficiency.
  • Labor – The amount of work involved in installing your new system contributes to the specific price of your project.

Yea Top-Notch Bozeman AC Installation

To see what your air conditioning installation options are, reach out to our team of Bozeman HVAC professionals. At Mountain Heating & Cooling, our technicians are well-versed in A/C installation. Each technician goes through rigorous training before stepping foot into your home. We understand that air conditioning is a significant investment in your home’s value, so we go above and beyond to make sure you are well informed on what your options are so you can make educated, confident choices. To get an estimate, schedule an appointment with our team today.