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When it comes to keeping your home comfortable during every season, nothing is more critical than picking out the right heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system. This decision influences your daily comfort, monthly utility bills and overall home efficiency. However, with so many system types, sizes and efficiency ratings, finding the ideal fit can be overwhelming. This guide simplifies the decision by walking you through the important factors to give consideration to when picking out an HVAC system.
Kinds of HVAC Systems
First—think about your climate, the size of your home and your personal comfort requirements to help determine what type of HVAC unit you should install. Here’s a closer look at some of the most popular choices.
Standard Furnace and Air Conditioner Setup
The most popular choice in the U.S is to use a forced-air furnace and air conditioner in one system. Air flows in through return ducts, is conditioned (heated or cooled) and then delivered via supply ducts. Furnaces may use natural gas, electricity, oil or propane, offering flexibility depending on your local resources. On the other hand, air conditioners usually operate using electricity.
Air-Source Heat Pumps
Heat pumps present a more efficient heating remedy than electric furnaces, making them especially popular in homes where electricity is the primary or exclusive energy source. These systems run in a similar manner to air conditioners but can also reverse their operation to provide heating. If you reside 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 very cold weather.
Ductless Mini-Splits
Ductless mini-splits are a kind of air-source heat pump. They supply heating and cooling without the need for ductwork. These devices are ideal for heating and cooling individual rooms, including home offices or additions. Many 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, usually installed outside. These are very good for compact homes or specific spaces that need separate temperature control.
Geothermal Heat Pumps
Known for being good for the environment and extremely energy efficient, geothermal heat pumps, also called ground-source heat pumps, are a cutting-edge 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 pretty consistent temperature all year, offering unrivaled efficiency. Installation includes setting up an underground loop system, which requires some consideration of local zoning and environmental rules.
Select a Size
Incorrect sizing is a common problem when picking out an HVAC system. A system that's too big will cycle on and off frequently, reducing efficiency and increasing wear and tear. On the other hand, a unit that doesn't have enough capacity 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. We can assess your home’s features, layout and climate to locate a system that's the perfect match for your home.
Compare Energy Ratings
Energy efficiency is vital for many reasons—it influences 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 reduce your environmental impact. Look for AC units 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 fundamental 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 considerable 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 equipment. A professional from a trustworthy company like Service Experts can run the numbers to help you make a knowledgeable decision.
Give Consideration To Installation and Maintenance
The overall function and life span of your HVAC system significantly depends on professional installation and regular maintenance. A correctly installed system will operate more efficiently and have a longer service life. Additionally, replacing the filter, checking the unit for leaks and other maintenance duties are crucial for optimal performance. Always work with a skilled pro who knows the needs of different HVAC systems.
Prioritize Indoor Air Quality
A good HVAC system does more than manage the temperature; it also maintains healthy indoor air quality. Most companies offer units with features like built-in air purifiers, humidifiers, and dehumidifiers, which can considerably improve the air you breathe. These features are particularly good options for people with allergies or respiratory problems.
Choose Service Experts in the U.S
When you’re ready to boost your home’s comfort and efficiency, reach out to Service Experts for help selecting and installing a new HVAC system. Our ACE-certified technicians provide fast, long-lasting solutions for all your HVAC equipment needs. We stand behind our work with a Service Experts Guarantee, so you can rely on us to make a meaningful 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 today by calling (866) 963-7996!
