How to Find a Suitable HVAC System
When considering keeping your home comfortable all year, nothing is more essential than picking out the right heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system. This decision influences your daily comfort, monthly utility costs and all-around home efficiency. But, with so many system types, sizes and efficiency ratings, finding the perfect fit can be overwhelming. This guide simplifies the decision by walking you through the primary factors to consider when selecting an HVAC system.
Kinds of HVAC Systems
Starting out—take a moment to look at your climate, the size of your home and your personal comfort needs to help determine what type of HVAC unit you need. Here’s a peek at a couple of the most popular choices.
Conventional Furnace and Air Conditioner Combination
The most common choice in the U.S. is to use a forced-air furnace and air conditioner in a single system. Air is pulled in through return ducts, conditioned (heated or cooled) and then delivered via supply ducts. Furnaces can use natural gas, electricity, oil or propane, offering flexibility depending on your local fuel availability. However, air conditioners typically run on electricity.
Air-Source Heat Pumps
Heat pumps offer a more efficient heating option than electric furnaces, making them very popular in homes where electricity is the primary or exclusive energy source. These systems operate a lot like air conditioners but can also reverse their operation to generate heat. If you are living in a place with hot summers and mild winters, a heat pump could be great. Cold-climate versions are also available for efficient operation in very cold weather.
Ductless Mini-Splits
Ductless mini-splits are a kind of air-source heat pump. They supply heating and cooling without the use of ductwork. These devices are very well suited for heating and cooling particular rooms, including home offices or additions. Numerous indoor units can also connect to a single outdoor unit for whole-house comfort when desired.
All-In-One Systems
Packaged systems are an all-in-one solution where every element is kept in a single unit, typically installed outside. These are excellent for smaller homes or specific parts of a home that need customized temperature control.
Geothermal Heat Pumps
Renowned for being environmentally friendly and highly efficient, geothermal heat pumps, also known as ground-source heat pumps, are a state of the art option. Much like their air-source counterparts, they use electricity and refrigerant to transfer heat. But, they exchange heat with the ground, which maintains a pretty consistent temperature throughout the year, offering unmatched efficiency. Installation includes setting up an underground loop system, which demands thoughtful consideration of local zoning and environmental guidelines.
Determine a Size
Incorrect sizing is a common mistake when choosing an HVAC system. A system that’s too big will cycle on and off frequently, lowering efficiency and increasing wear and tear. Conversely, a system that isn’t powerful enough can’t keep up with demand on the hottest and coldest days. To determine the right size, work with an HVAC professional like the team at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We can assess your home’s features, layout and climate to recommend a system that’s just right.
Find the Best Energy Ratings
Energy efficiency is vital for many reasons—it impacts your monthly energy expenses, carbon footprint and regulatory compliance. The government has set minimum HVAC efficiency ratings, but you can exceed these minimums to increase your savings and minimize your environmental impact. Look for air conditioners with a high seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) and furnaces with high annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE).
Think About Your Budget
Comparing the start-up cost with long-term efficiency and other benefits is fundamental when setting a budget for purchase of HVAC equipment for your home. While a more efficient system has a greater up-front cost, it can offer considerable energy savings and improved comfort for years, making an extremely efficient model a potentially worthwhile purchase in the long run. That’s why it’s necessary to consider the total cost of ownership when budgeting for your new HVAC equipment. A pro from a reputable company like Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can run the numbers to help you make an informed decision.
Think About Installation and Maintenance
The operation and life span of your HVAC system significantly depends on professional installation and regular maintenance. A correctly installed system will operate more efficiently and give you more years of service. In addition, replacing the filter, monitoring the unit for leaks and other maintenance activities are essential for maximum performance. Always work with a trained expert who recognizes the needs of different HVAC systems.
Make Indoor Air Quality a Priority
A good HVAC system does more than regulate the temperature; it also maintains healthy indoor air quality. Options like built-in air purifiers, humidifiers and dehumidifiers, which can greatly improve the air you breathe. These features are especially good options for people with allergies or respiratory problems.
Choose Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for Heating & Air Conditioning in the U.S.
When you’re ready to increase your home’s comfort and efficiency, turn to Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for help choosing and installing a new HVAC system. Our ACE-certified technicians deliver fast, long-lasting solutions for all your HVAC equipment needs. We stand behind our work with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, so you can rely on us to make a genuine difference in your comfort and well-being. For a system created to meet your home and family’s distinct needs in the U.S., contact Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing today by calling 866-397-3787!