In the world of HVAC, a dangerous misconception persists: the idea that a larger furnace will heat your home faster and more effectively. In reality, an oversized system is a leading cause of equipment failure and high energy bills.

The U.S. Department of Energy reports that up to 93% of residential systems are oversized, often because contractors “size up” to avoid callbacks rather than performing the necessary engineering. For an Iowa homeowner, this error isn’t just a technicality—it directly impacts your wallet and your comfort during the most brutal months of the year.

Understanding the “Goldilocks Principle”

An HVAC system must be perfectly suited to its environment to operate efficiently.

• Undersized Systems: These units run endlessly without ever reaching your thermostat’s set temperature. In a Cedar Rapids winter, an undersized furnace faces a 100% duty cycle, leading to massive utility spikes and premature mechanical failure.
• Oversized Systems: These reach the set temperature too quickly and shut off—a process called “short-cycling”. This rapid on-and-off movement prevents the system from reaching its optimal operating temperature, which can cause the heat exchanger to crack over time and lead to uneven “hot and cold spots” throughout the house.
• Just Right: A system sized through a professional Manual J certified Load Calculation.  This is not a rule of thumb approach or simply assuming the original furnace size is correct.  

Why Load Calcs Matter: The Science of Heat Transfer

To find that “Just Right” size, professionals must perform a Load Calculation, a rigorous standard developed by the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA). This process models Heat Transfer—the exact measure of how much heat your home loses to the freezing Iowa air in the winter.

A proper load calculation considers specific factors unique to your property:

• The Building Envelope: The insulating R-values of your attic, walls, and floors.
• Fenestration: The orientation, size, and “U-factor” of your windows.
• Internal Heat Gains: The number of occupants and heat-producing appliances like ovens or electronics.
• Climate Data: Using “Winter Outside Design Temperatures” (the temperature that it only drops below 2.5% of the time in your specific area).

Precision Measurement with LiDAR Technology

Historically, load calculations involved manual measurements that were prone to human error. Today, contractors use LiDAR technology to measure walls, windows, and ceilings with millimetre precision. By using advanced tools and technology the folks at Colony can generate a 3D model that captures every structural detail without recording any personal information.

This 3D data tells us exactly how many BTUs (British Thermal Units) your home needs. Accurate mapping reduces guesswork, ensuring the equipment is right-sized from day one to prevent the 30% energy waste associated with improper installations.

The 10-Step Education Checklist

When an installation is performed correctly, it follows a rigorous sequence:

1. Load Calculation: Establishing the scientific heating requirements.
2. Proper Equipment Selection: Matching furnace capacity to the calculated load.
3. Duct Sizing Verification: Ensuring your existing “vascular system” can handle the air volume.
4. Airflow Checks: Measuring static pressure within the system.
5. Refrigerant & Gas Pressure Calibration: Essential for safe and efficient combustion.
6. Electrical Capacity Verification: Confirming your home can safely power the new equipment.
7. Smart Control Calibration: Ensuring your thermostat is reading room temperatures accurately.
8. System Commissioning: Testing the unit through multiple cycles to verify performance.
9. Record Keeping: Giving you the digital records of the scan and load calculation for your files.
10. Homeowner Education: Taking the time to explain how to change filters and maximize your new system’s life.

Your Partner in Home Health

Replacing a furnace is one of the most significant investments you’ll make for your home. By moving away from “rough estimates” and toward data-driven engineering, you ensure your home stays comfortable during an Iowa polar vortex without wasting a dime on unnecessary energy costs. Don’t leave it to a contractor who takes shortcuts. Trust the data, trust the technology, and trust the guys who take the time to do the math.

The post The Goldilocks Principle: Why HVAC “Sizing” is the Foundation of Iowa Home Comfort appeared first on Colony Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning.

Are you looking to add a fireplace to your home? Now is the perfect time! Mendota is North America’s Luxury Fireplace and they’re made right here in Cedar Rapids, IA! There are many elegant options of gas fireplaces and inserts. Our knowledgeable staff can help you decide which unit is best for your home. These fireplaces are one of a kind and really make a statement in your living room, den, bedroom or kitchen. Let’s take a look at some features:

Features of Mendota Gas Fireplaces:

• Proflame Remote allows control of Fan Speed, BTU Output, Interior Dimmer Light & Dual Burners
• Options of Log Sets, Interior Panels, Doors & Surrounds in a variety of finishes
• Arch Kits on certain Units
• Option of various sizes to accommodate your home
• Direct-Vent
• Cost-effective fuel consumption
• Clean, low-maintenance
• Convenient and instantaneous fire

Features of Mendota Gas Fireplace Inserts:

• Proflame Remote allows control of Fan Speed, BTU Output, Interior Dimmer Light & Dual Burners
• Options of Log Sets, Interior Panels, Doors & Surrounds in a variety of finishes
• Clean, convenient and easy-to-use
• Increased fireplace efficiency
• Cost-effective fuel consumption
• Reduced fireplace emissions help protect air quality
• Provides heat when the power goes out

Mendota is offering a Fall Sale from September 14th – October 15th 2018 on all NEW purchases of Mendota units.

Details:

• Consumers will download a number coded coupon for advertised discount with their contact info and email. Click Here:

There is never a better time to purchase a Mendota from Colony Heating and Air Conditioning. Take the chill out of your home this fall and winter and create a centerpiece for you and your family to enjoy. Stop into our showroom and see the many options and styles we have to offer. Our showroom is open 7:30-5:00pm Monday – Friday and Saturday 9:00-1:00pm.

The post MENDOTA FIREPLACE FALL SALE appeared first on Colony Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning.

We’re sure you’ve heard the term “Geothermal” but do you know the benefits? Just this year, the government passed a 30% tax savings for installations through December 31st, 2019. For homeowners who installed a Geothermal system in 2017, you can now claim the 30% credit.

Let’s Talk Cost

As you may expect the upfront costs are a concern and it’s important to have an idea to make sure it’s right for you. A Geothermal system costs $10,000 to $30,000 depending on factors such as yard size, system configuration, soil and site accessibility. A Geo unit typically costs In a new home the installation is a bit cheaper. You’re probably wondering how long it will take to recuperate your investment.

Recouping your costs through energy savings could take as little as 4 years or up to 15 years depending on factors such as your utility rates, and cost of installation. Have our professionals give you an estimate and see if Geothermal is right for you!

The Benefits

• Clean Energy – As you probably know, Geothermal a green form of energy. There are no greenhouse gasses.
• Lower Operating Cost – This system will immediately save you 30-60% on heating and 20-50% on cooling over your conventional furnace and air conditioner.
• Can be Installed in New or Older Homes – The only issue in retrofitting an older home is making sure the proper duct work is in place.
• Low Maintenance – The loop in ground typically lasts more than 50 years and the indoor unit about 25, giving it much more life than a conventional furnace/ air conditioner.

Conclusion

Geothermal energy is great for the environment, but not so great for your wallet. Thankfully, you can now claim 30% tax savings on Geothermal systems.  This is the perfect opportunity to have our professionals give you a bid on new installation or retrofit. Call us today at 364-HEAT (4328) and Tim Stecklein will answer any questions you may have!

The post FEDERAL GEOTHERMAL TAX CREDITS appeared first on Colony Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning.

Let’s Talk Cost

As you may expect the upfront costs are a concern and it’s important to have an idea to make sure it’s right for you. A Geothermal system costs $10,000 to $30,000 depending on factors such as yard size, system configuration, soil and site accessibility. A Geo unit typically costs In a new home the installation is a bit cheaper. You’re probably wondering how long it will take to recuperate your investment.

Recouping your costs through energy savings could take as little as 4 years or up to 15 years depending on factors such as your utility rates, and cost of installation. Have our professionals give you an estimate and see if Geothermal is right for you!

The Benefits

• Clean Energy – As you probably know, Geothermal a green form of energy. There are no greenhouse gasses.
• Lower Operating Cost – This system will immediately save you 30-60% on heating and 20-50% on cooling over your conventional furnace and air conditioner.
• Can be Installed in New or Older Homes – The only issue in retrofitting an older home is making sure the proper duct work is in place.
• Low Maintenance – The loop in ground typically lasts more than 50 years and the indoor unit about 25, giving it much more life than a conventional furnace/ air conditioner.

Conclusion

Geothermal energy is great for the environment, but not so great for your wallet. Thankfully, you can now claim 30% tax savings on Geothermal systems.  This is the perfect opportunity to have our professionals give you a bid on new installation or retrofit. Call us today at 364-HEAT (4328) and Tim Stecklein will answer any questions you may have!

The post FEDERAL GEOTHERMAL TAX CREDITS appeared first on Colony Plumbing, Heating and Air Conditioning.