How to Choose a Good HVAC System

When it comes to keeping your home comfortable during every season, nothing is more essential than picking out the right heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system. This choice influences your daily comfort, monthly utility expenditures 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 primary factors to think about when choosing an HVAC system.

Types of HVAC Systems

First things first—think about 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 choices.

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 resources. However, air conditioners for the most part run on 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 main or exclusive 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 models are also available for efficient operation in harsher weather.

Ductless Mini-Splits

Ductless mini-splits are a variety of air-source heat pump. They create heating and cooling without the use of ductwork. These types of heat pump are very well suited for heating and cooling specific rooms, including home offices or additions. Numerous 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 housed in a single unit, usually installed outside. These are ideal for modest homes or specific parts of a home that need independent 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. Similar to their air-source counterparts, they use electricity and refrigerant to move heat. But, they exchange heat with the ground, which maintains a fairly consistent temperature throughout the year, offering unparalleled efficiency. Installation includes setting up an underground loop system, which will require careful consideration of local zoning and environmental regulations.

Pick a Size

Incorrect sizing is a common mistake when selecting 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 might not be able to keep up 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 evaluate your home’s features, layout and climate to recommend a system that’s just right.

Find the Best Energy Ratings

Energy efficiency is important for several reasons—it affects your monthly energy bills, 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 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 original 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 supply major 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 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.

Give Consideration To 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 function more efficiently and have a longer service life. Additionally, replacing the filter, checking the unit for leaks and other maintenance activities are critical for optimal performance. Always work with a trained expert who knows 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. Most companies offer units with features like built-in air purifiers, humidifiers and dehumidifiers, which can greatly 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, choose Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for help selecting and installing a new HVAC system. Our ACE-certified technicians deliver quick, long-lasting solutions for all your comfort needs. We support our work with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, so you can count on us to make a genuine difference in your comfort and health. 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!