How to Find a Suitable HVAC System

When it comes to keeping your home comfortable all year, nothing is more essential 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. Then again, with so many system types, sizes and efficiency ratings, finding the ideal fit can be stressful. This guide takes the stress out of the process by walking you through the key factors to think about when choosing an HVAC system.

Different Varieties of HVAC Systems

First—carefully consider your climate, the size of your home and your personal comfort requirements to help determine what type of HVAC unit you will need. Here’s a peek at a couple of the most popular choices.

Traditional Furnace and Air Conditioner Combination

The most widely selected 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 circulated via supply ducts. Furnaces can use natural gas, electricity, oil or propane, offering flexibility depending on your local resources. On the other hand, air conditioners typically are powered by electricity.

Air-Source Heat Pumps

Heat pumps present a more efficient heating option than electric furnaces, making them particularly popular in homes where electricity is the major or exclusive energy source. These systems run similarly to air conditioners but can also reverse their operation to warm homes. If you are living in a place with hot summers and mild winters, a heat pump could be excellent. Cold-climate styles are also designed for efficient operation in nastier weather.

Ductless Mini-Splits

Ductless mini-splits are a variety of air-source heat pump. They supply heating and cooling without requiring ductwork. These devices are perfect for heating and cooling specific rooms, such as home offices or additions. Multiple indoor units can also hook up to a single outdoor unit for whole-house comfort when desired.

Comprehensive Systems

Packaged systems are an all-in-one solution where every aspect of the system is kept in a single unit, typically installed outside. These are excellent for compact homes or specific areas that need customized temperature control.

Geothermal Heat Pumps

Renowned for being good for the environment and extremely energy efficient, geothermal heat pumps, also called ground-source heat pumps, are a highly innovative option. Similar to their air-source counterparts, they use electricity and refrigerant to deliver heat. That said, they exchange heat with the ground, which keeps a fairly consistent temperature throughout the year, offering unrivaled efficiency. Installation includes setting up an underground loop system, which requires some consideration of local zoning and environmental rules.

Pick a Size

Incorrect sizing is a common problem when picking out an HVAC system. An oversized unit will cycle on and off frequently, decreasing 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 find the right size, contact an HVAC professional like the team at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We can evaluate your home’s features, layout and climate to suggest a system that’s the perfect match for your home.

Analyze Energy Ratings

Energy efficiency is important for several reasons—it influences your monthly energy bills, 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 decrease your environmental impact. Look for air conditioning systems with a high seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) and furnaces with high annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE).

Set Your Budget

Comparing the original 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 more expensive up-front cost, it can supply major 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 crucial 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 educated decision.

Consider Installation and Maintenance

The performance and number of years provided by your HVAC system significantly depends on professional installation and regular maintenance. A correctly installed system will function more efficiently and last longer. In addition, replacing the filter, monitoring the unit for leaks and other maintenance activities are critical for maximum performance. Always work with a qualified expert who understands 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. Many models are available with built-in air purifiers, humidifiers and dehumidifiers, which can greatly improve the air you breathe. These features are extremely good options for people with allergies or respiratory challenges.

Choose Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for Heating & Air Conditioning in the U.S.

When you’re ready to improve your home’s comfort and efficiency, reach out to Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for help choosing and installing a new HVAC system. Our ACE-certified technicians deliver quick, long-lasting solutions for all your comfort needs. We back our work with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, so you can rely on us to make a meaningful difference in your comfort and health. For a system tailored 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!

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