How do I choose an HVAC system?
An HVAC system is a vital addition to your home. It’s an investment you make to ensure your home remains comfortable throughout the year.
Today, almost every homeowner has installed an HVAC system. According to consumer reports, more than 75% of US homes use air conditioning, while 90% of new houses are fitted with a central air system.
With everyone having a cooling and heating system at their homes, you might be tempted to install an HVAC system just because you’ve seen it in your neighbors’ place. It doesn’t work that way!
HVAC systems are different, so you need to find the correct system for your needs. Having the right HVAC system will not only make your home comfortable but will save you costs associated with repair, power, and efficiency.
So how do I choose an HVAC system? This post will discuss the various types of HVAC systems and factors to consider in picking the right system for your needs.
What is an HVAC system?
HVAC is Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning in full. HVAC is a technological system that helps in cooling and heating your home when necessary. Many people know the HVAC system as heat pumps, gas furnaces, AC units, boilers, or air conditioners, but these are just the various components.
Types of HVAC Systems
HVAC systems differ according to their functions and components. Let’s discuss the four main types of HVAC systems.
- Package System: This system has one unit with both a cooling and heating mechanism. Package systems are effective and high-quality systems usually installed outdoors. They are best used in homes without basements.
- Split System: The split system is the most commonly used HVAC system with two units: to cool and heat your home.
- Hybrid System: It is almost similar to the split system but more advanced. This system uses a hybrid electric heater system giving it improved energy efficiency.
- Ductless System: It consists of both an air conditioner and a heat pump. The outside air conditioner cools the air inside while the heat pump cools or heats your home, depending. These systems are ideal for homes where you cannot install the conventional systems that require ducts.
Choosing the Right HVAC System
Picking the right HVAC system is never a straightforward process. If you are not well informed, you might choose a system with less efficiency; provides less cooling or heating than required. This means it will not meet your needs as desired.
With this guideline, however, things will be easier for you;
- Size of the system: Ensure that you pick the proper size system before you install it into your home. An oversized HVAC system has frequent cycles which shorten its life. The efficiency ratings will also be low, meaning you will not be as comfortable.
To determine the right size, Contact an HVAC contractor to help you with a load calculation. These calculations will depend on your home’s square footage, ceiling height, sun exposure, and tree coverage. You need to hire an expert who will evaluate the whole system or advice you on the most efficient heating and cooling system for your home.
- Capacity: You need to understand the capacity of your HVAC system. The right capacity should help heat and cool your home effectively. The British Thermal Units measure the system’s capacity. Typically, a higher BTU rating indicates a great capacity.
- Efficiency: The efficiency of an HVAC system is measured by the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (seer). SEER is calculated by dividing the BTUs output by the energy input of the same season. The HVAC system for your home should have both heating and cooling units for effectiveness and efficiency.
The seer ratings you select will depend on your area and the place you need to cool and heat. Ideally, the least seer rating should be 15- for residents of Texas.
Other system ratings to look for include; HSPF, AFUE, and EER.
Programmable Thermostat Compatibility
A programmable thermostat lets you regulate your home’s temperature from wherever you are. You can turn off your system when not in use to save some energy bills. So, ensure your system is compatible with this type of thermostat.
Price
Do not just go for a low-priced HVAC system. Consider one that has high efficiency and is affordable to you. An HVAC unit might be costly now but will save you more money in the long run by avoiding repairs on an existing system or even cutting down energy costs.
Features of the system
You need to consider the indoor air quality components in an HVAC system. These components include humidifiers, an energy star, and air filtration systems.
Warranty
Warranties are also very important. You need to research and compare warranties from different manufacturers and contractors. In case something breaks or needs a replacement, this warranty will save you big time. Also, consider a transferable warranty in case you plan to sell your home.
Choosing the right HVAC system will save you unnecessary costs and increase comfort in your home. It may not be easy to know all the different systems, so it’s advisable to consult with an expert.
If you want an effective and efficient system for your space, worry not. Jamison Heating & Cooling Services got you covered! Our expert technicians can guide you in selecting the right type of HVAC system to fit your requirements. At Jamison Heating & Cooling Services, we also offer installation and maintenance services at an affordable price.
