Think of a heat pump like a reversible air conditioner. In the winter, it brings warmth from outside to heat your home, and in the summer, it takes the heat from your house and moves it outside, keeping your home cool. It’s like having a fridge that can either cool your groceries or warm them up, depending on what you need.

A ductless or mini-split heat pump is a compact system that can heat or cool different areas of your home without needing large ducts. It’s great for room additions, older homes, or any place where you want to control the temperature directly in the room.

Geothermal heat pumps use the steady temperature of the ground or a water source to regulate your home’s climate. They’re a bit pricier to install but they save a lot on your energy bills in the long run because they use natural heat from the earth. They’re durable, manage humidity well, and can be a good fit for many homes, especially if you have the yard space for it.

When we talk about gas furnace efficiency, we’re looking at how well your furnace turns gas into heat. If a furnace is 80% efficient, it means 20% of the gas you’re paying for isn’t being used to heat your home and is wasted. A 95% efficient furnace is much better because it only wastes 5% of the gas. Upgrading to a more efficient furnace is especially important now because Washington State has added a steep 23% tax on natural gas, so the more efficient your furnace, the more you’ll save on your heating bills.

To ensure your HVAC system operates efficiently in our varied climate, it’s recommended to schedule maintenance at least once a year. However, due to our region’s specific conditions—like the high humidity and frequent rainfall—it’s a good idea to increase this to twice a year.

A spring check-up will prepare your system for the summer months, making sure your air conditioning can handle the warmer weather without overworking. This can include cleaning the coils, checking the refrigerant levels, and ensuring all components are functioning correctly.

A fall check-up is equally important to get your heating system ready for the cooler months. This typically involves inspecting the furnace, replacing filters, and checking for any issues that might affect its efficiency.

Sticking to this semi-annual schedule can help catch potential problems early, extend the life of your system, and keep it running efficiently, which can save you money on energy bills and unexpected repairs. Plus, a well-maintained system is better at controlling indoor humidity and maintaining good air quality in your home.

• Use High-Quality Filters: Install high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters in your HVAC system to capture mold spores and other allergens.
• Regular Filter Changes: Replace your HVAC filters every 60-90 days, or more frequently if you have pets or allergies.
• Control Humidity: Keep indoor humidity levels between 30-50% with a dehumidifier to prevent mold growth.
• Ensure Good Ventilation: Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens where moisture is common, and consider an energy recovery ventilator for continuous fresh air exchange.
• Routine HVAC Checks: Have your HVAC system inspected and serviced regularly to ensure it is working efficiently to circulate and filter the air in your home.

• Seal and insulate ductwork to prevent air leaks.
• Install a programmable thermostat for better temperature control.
• Regularly clean or replace air filters to maintain airflow.
• Schedule annual professional maintenance to keep the system running at peak performance.