Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about HVAC and more, answered by the heating and cooling experts at West Temp.
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Heat pumps
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Air conditioning
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Hvac
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Gas furnaces
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Gas fireplaces
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Maintenance
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Tankless hot water
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Gas fitting
Top FAQs
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What does HSPF stand for?
HSPF stands for Heating Seasonal Performance Factor. It is a measure of the efficiency of a heat pump system in heating mode. The HSPF is calculated by dividing the total heat output of the system during the heating season by the total electrical energy consumed by the system during the same period.
Generally, a higher HSPF indicates a more efficient system that can provide more heat output per unit of electrical energy consumed. However, it’s important to note that the actual performance of a heat pump system can vary depending on factors such as climate, installation, and usage patterns.
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What size central air conditioning system do I need?
The size of the central air conditioning system you need depends on the size of your home, the number of rooms, the amount of insulation, and the climate in your area. A professional installer can perform a load calculation to determine the correct size of the system.
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What should I do if my HVAC system is not heating or cooling properly?
If your HVAC system is not heating or cooling properly, the first things to check are the thermostat settings and air filter. You can also refer to the specific troubleshooting documentation that came with your system. These tips are often found in the manual for your unit, which you can usually find online if you can’t locate your hard copy.
If your filter and thermostat look fine, and you’re not seeing anything obvious in the troubleshooting documentation, it’s best to call an HVAC contractor like Nanaimo-based West Temp to diagnose and fix the issue.
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What is the difference between a single-stage and two-stage gas furnace?
A single-stage gas furnace has only one level of heat output, while a two-stage furnace has a low and a high heat output option. A two-stage furnace can be more energy efficient as it adjusts the heat output to match the temperature needs of the home.
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Do gas fireplaces require a chimney?
Gas fireplaces don’t require a traditional masonry chimney like wood-burning fireplaces do. Instead, they require a venting system to remove the combustion gases from the home. The type of venting system required will depend on the model of gas fireplace.
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Why is HVAC maintenance important?
Regular HVAC maintenance is important because it helps ensure that your system is running efficiently and effectively. This can lead to lower energy bills, improved indoor air quality, and a longer lifespan for your equipment.
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How do tankless hot water systems work?
Tankless hot water systems work by heating water on-demand as it flows through the system. When you turn on a hot water faucet, cold water is drawn into the system and heated by a heating element or burner. The hot water is then delivered to your faucet, showerhead, or appliance.
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Do I need permits for gas installations in my home? Who handles the permitting process?
Gas permits are typically required to ensure that gas installations comply with safety and building codes.
A gas homeowner permit is required for many kinds of home alterations. This includes, but is not limited to:
installing or replacing all gas appliances such as a furnace, water heater, fireplace, boiler, range or cooktop;
installing or replacing gas piping or vent systems; and
installing built-in gas barbecues.
In Nanaimo, gas and electrical permits are issued by Technical Safety BC, and you can learn more about the process via their website.
The team at West Temp will be able to guide you through the permitting process (including applying for permits on your behalf), so the best thing to do is start by requesting a quote to discuss your specific needs.