Heating System
Heating System | Ventilation and Air Quality | Heating and Air Conditioning | Hillsboro
When Hillsboro homeowners think of comfort, they think of HEP. Our certified technicians design, install, and maintain high-efficiency heating and cooling systems that keep every room at the perfect temperature—even during the most unpredictable Oregon weather. From state-of-the-art heat pumps to responsive smart thermostats, we tailor solutions that trim energy bills while boosting reliability, so you can relax knowing your home is cared for by local experts who arrive on time and treat your space with respect.
Beyond temperature control, we focus on ventilation and air quality to safeguard your family’s health. By integrating advanced air purifiers, balanced humidity controls, and properly sized ductwork, we remove allergens, neutralize odors, and circulate fresh outdoor air throughout the year. Choose HEP and breathe easier, confident that your HVAC system is working as hard for your well-being as it is for your comfort.
FAQs
What type of heating system works best for Hillsboro’s climate?
Hillsboro’s winters are generally mild and wet, so a high-efficiency gas furnace or an electric air-source heat pump is ideal. A modern 90-plus-AFUE gas furnace provides reliable warmth on the coldest days, while an ENERGY STAR-rated heat pump can both heat in winter and cool in summer at lower operating costs. If your home already has ductwork, a traditional split system makes sense; if not, a ductless mini-split heat pump offers zoned comfort with minimal installation disruption.
How often should I change or clean my HVAC air filters?
Most manufacturers recommend inspecting disposable filters every month and replacing them at least every 90 days. In Hillsboro’s rainy season, when homes stay closed up, change filters more frequently—every 30–45 days—especially if you have pets, allergies, or recent construction dust. Washable electrostatic filters should be rinsed monthly and allowed to dry completely before reinstallation to prevent mold growth.
Why is preventive maintenance important, and what does it include?
Semi-annual tune-ups—once in spring for cooling and once in fall for heating—keep your equipment running safely, efficiently, and within warranty requirements. A professional technician will clean burners or coils, check refrigerant charge, tighten electrical connections, test safety controls, verify airflow and thermostat calibration, lubricate moving parts, and replace or clean filters. Regular maintenance can cut energy use by up to 15 %, reduce unexpected breakdowns, and extend system life.
What are common signs of poor indoor air quality, and how can improved ventilation help?
Symptoms such as lingering odors, visible dust buildup, stuffy rooms, condensation on windows, frequent allergy or asthma flare-ups, and headaches can indicate inadequate ventilation or pollutant buildup. Solutions include adding a balanced energy-recovery ventilator (ERV) or heat-recovery ventilator (HRV) to bring in fresh outdoor air while minimizing heat loss, sealing duct leaks, using high-MERV filters, and installing UV air purifiers or whole-house dehumidifiers to control humidity and biological contaminants.
Are heat pumps efficient during Hillsboro’s cool, damp winters?
Yes. Modern cold-climate air-source heat pumps maintain high efficiency (COP > 2) down to about 17 °F, which is well below Hillsboro’s typical winter lows. Variable-speed compressors and inverter technology allow them to modulate output, providing steady, even heat without the temperature swings of older systems. Pairing a heat pump with an auxiliary gas furnace (a dual-fuel system) can deliver maximum comfort and lowest energy costs during occasional cold snaps.
What incentives are available for upgrading to high-efficiency HVAC or IAQ equipment in Hillsboro?
Residents served by Portland General Electric (PGE) or NW Natural may qualify for utility rebates on qualifying heat pumps, smart thermostats, and high-efficiency furnaces. Energy Trust of Oregon currently offers up to $800 for a ducted heat pump and $250–$550 for ductless mini-split installations. Federal tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act provide up to 30 % of project costs (maximum $2,000) for heat pumps and $600 for advanced air sealing or ventilation improvements. Always verify current program details and secure pre-approval before installation.