How to Choose an Effective HVAC System
When it comes to keeping your home comfortable year-round, nothing is more important than picking out the right heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system. This choice impacts your daily comfort, monthly utility bills and general home efficiency. However, with so many system types, sizes and efficiency ratings, finding the ideal fit can be stressful. This guide makes the choice easier by walking you through the primary factors to think about when selecting an HVAC system.
Types of HVAC Systems
Starting out—take a moment to look at your climate, the size of your home and your personal comfort preferences to help determine what type of HVAC unit you should install. Here’s a closer look at a few of the most popular options.
Conventional Furnace and Air Conditioner Setup
The most common choice in the U.S. is to use a forced-air furnace and air conditioner in a combined system. Air is pulled in through return ducts, conditioned (heated or cooled) and then distributed via supply ducts. Furnaces might 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 provide a more efficient heating solution than electric furnaces, making them particularly popular in homes where electricity is the major or only energy source. These systems run in a similar manner to air conditioners but can also reverse their operation to warm homes. If you live in a region with hot summers and mild winters, a heat pump could be great. Cold-climate models are also designed for efficient operation in nastier weather.
Ductless Mini-Splits
Ductless mini-splits are a kind of air-source heat pump. They supply heating and cooling without requiring ductwork. These systems are ideal for heating and cooling particular rooms, including home offices or additions. Multiple indoor units can also link 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 aspect of the system is located in a single unit, typically installed outside. These are ideal for smaller homes or specific parts of a home that need customized temperature control.
Geothermal Heat Pumps
Recognized for being good for the environment and extremely energy efficient, geothermal heat pumps, also known as ground-source heat pumps, are a highly innovative option. Much like their air-source counterparts, they use electricity and refrigerant to transfer heat. However, they exchange heat with the ground, which maintains a relatively consistent temperature all the time, offering unmatched efficiency. Installation includes setting up an underground loop system, which will require thoughtful consideration of local zoning and environmental laws.
Pick a Size
Wrong sizing is a common mistake when choosing an HVAC system. Too large of a unit will cycle on and off frequently, limiting efficiency and increasing wear and tear. On the other hand, a system that isn’t powerful enough may not be able to provide a comfortable temperature on the hottest and coldest days. To pick 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.
Analyze Energy Ratings
Energy efficiency is fundamental for many reasons—it affects your monthly energy expenses, carbon footprint and regulatory compliance. The government has set minimum HVAC efficiency ratings, but you can go above and beyond the regulations to increase your savings and decrease your environmental impact. Look for air conditioners with a high seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) and furnaces with high annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE).
Set Your Budget
Evaluating the start-up cost with long-term efficiency and other benefits is very important 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 the investment worthwhile. That’s why it’s important to consider the total cost of ownership when budgeting for your new HVAC system. A specialist from a trusted company like Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can run the numbers to help you make an informed decision.
Contemplate Installation and Maintenance
The overall function and number of years provided by your HVAC system greatly depends on professional installation and regular maintenance. A correctly installed system will function more efficiently and give you more years of service. Additionally, replacing the filter, inspecting the unit for leaks and other maintenance activities are critical for optimal performance. Always work with a skilled pro who recognizes the needs of different HVAC systems.
Don’t Forget Indoor Air Quality
A good HVAC system does more than control the temperature; it also ensures healthy indoor air quality. Options like built-in air purifiers, humidifiers and dehumidifiers, which can considerably improve the air you breathe. These features are extremely important for people with allergies or respiratory issues.
Choose Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for Heating & Air Conditioning in the U.S.
When you’re ready to boost your home’s comfort and efficiency, turn to Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for help finding and installing a new HVAC system. Our ACE-certified technicians deliver quick, long-lasting solutions for all your heating and cooling needs. We back our work with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, so you can trust us to make a genuine difference in your comfort and home enjoyment. For a system created to meet your home and family’s specific needs in the U.S., contact Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing today by calling 866-397-3787!
