How to Find an Effective HVAC System
When considering keeping your home comfortable year-round, nothing is more important than selecting the right heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system. This decision affects your daily comfort, monthly utility bills and overall home efficiency. But, with so many system types, sizes and efficiency ratings, finding the perfect fit can be confusing. This guide simplifies the decision by walking you through the important factors to give consideration to when selecting an HVAC system.
Kinds of HVAC Systems
First—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 will need. Here’s a closer look at some of the most popular options.
Standard Furnace and Air Conditioner Combo
The most common choice in the U.S. is to use a forced-air furnace and air conditioner in a combined system. Air is drawn 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 operate using electricity.
Air-Source Heat Pumps
Heat pumps provide a more efficient heating option than electric furnaces, making them very popular in homes where electricity is the primary or sole energy source. These systems run in a similar manner to air conditioners but can also reverse their operation to generate heat. If you reside in a place with hot summers and mild winters, a heat pump could be perfect. Cold-climate styles are also offered for efficient operation in harsher weather.
Ductless Mini-Splits
Ductless mini-splits are a variety of air-source heat pump. They supply heating and cooling without requiring ductwork. These systems are ideal for heating and cooling specific rooms, such as home offices or additions. Multiple indoor units can also hook up to one outdoor unit for whole-house comfort when desired.
Packaged Systems
Packaged systems are an all-in-one solution where every element is housed in a single unit, generally installed outside. These are great for modest homes or specific spaces that need separate temperature control.
Geothermal Heat Pumps
Known for their environmental friendliness and efficiency, geothermal heat pumps, also referred to as ground-source heat pumps, are a cutting-edge option. Much like their air-source counterparts, they use electricity and refrigerant to move heat. That said, they exchange heat with the ground, which maintains a relatively consistent temperature all year, offering unrivaled efficiency. Installation includes setting up an underground loop system, which requires careful consideration of local zoning and environmental rules.
Pick a Size
Wrong sizing is a common problem when choosing an HVAC system. An oversized unit will cycle on and off frequently, reducing efficiency and increasing wear and tear. Having said that, an undersized system can’t keep up with demand on the hottest and coldest days. To determine the right size, contact an HVAC professional like the team at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We can assess your home’s features, layout and climate to locate a system that meets your home and household’s needs.
Analyze Energy Ratings
Energy efficiency is important for many reasons—it influences your monthly energy costs, carbon footprint and regulatory compliance. The government has developed minimum HVAC efficiency ratings, but installing a system that goes beyond the minimums can 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
Balancing the start-up cost with long-term efficiency and other benefits is crucial when setting a budget for purchase of HVAC equipment for your home. While a more efficient system has a more expensive up-front cost, it can provide significant energy savings and improved comfort for years, making the unit a good fit for your finances. That’s why it’s necessary to consider the long-term cost of ownership when budgeting for your new HVAC unit. A specialist from a trusted company like Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can run the numbers to help you make an knowledgeable decision.
Contemplate Installation and Maintenance
The performance and number of years provided by your HVAC system heavily depends on professional installation and regular maintenance. A correctly installed system will operate more efficiently and last longer. Then, replacing the filter, monitoring the unit for leaks and other maintenance duties are essential for maximum performance. Always work with a qualified expert who recognizes the needs of different HVAC systems.
Prioritize Indoor Air Quality
A good HVAC system does more than control the temperature; it also provides healthy indoor air quality. Many models are available with built-in air purifiers, humidifiers and dehumidifiers, which can greatly improve the air you breathe. These features are particularly beneficial 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, choose Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for help choosing and installing a new HVAC system. Our ACE-certified technicians provide quick, long-lasting solutions for all your comfort needs. We stand behind our work with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, so you can count on us to make a genuine difference in your comfort and home enjoyment. For a system designed 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!
