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How to Pick Out a Suitable HVAC System

When considering keeping your home comfortable during every season, nothing is more essential than choosing the right heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system. This determination impacts your daily comfort, monthly utility bills and general home efficiency. But, 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 give consideration to when choosing an HVAC system.

Types 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 will need. Here’s a peek at some of the most popular choices.

Traditional Furnace and Air Conditioner Setup

The most popular choice in the U.S. is to use a forced-air furnace and air conditioner in a single 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 resources. But, air conditioners for the most part 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 primary or exclusive energy source. These systems work a lot like air conditioners but can also reverse their operation to generate heat. If you reside in a region with hot summers and mild winters, a heat pump could be excellent. Cold-climate versions are also offered for efficient operation in very cold 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 ideal for heating and cooling individual rooms, especially home offices or additions. Many indoor units can also connect to a lone outdoor unit for whole-house comfort when desired.

Comprehensive Systems

Packaged systems are an all-in-one solution where every component is kept in a single unit, usually installed outside. These are ideal for smaller homes or specific parts of a home that need customized temperature control.

Geothermal Heat Pumps

Known for being environmentally friendly and highly efficient, geothermal heat pumps, also referred to as ground-source heat pumps, are a highly innovative option. Much like their air-source counterparts, they use electricity and refrigerant to move heat. But, they exchange heat with the ground, which maintains a relatively consistent temperature throughout the year, offering unrivaled efficiency. Installation includes setting up an underground loop system, which will require thoughtful consideration of local zoning and environmental guidelines.

Determine a Size

Incorrect sizing is a common error when choosing an HVAC system. A system that’s too big will cycle on and off frequently, lowering efficiency and increasing wear and tear. Having said that, a unit that doesn’t have enough capacity might not be able to keep up 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 analyze your home’s features, layout and climate to locate a system that’s the perfect match for your home.

Review Energy Ratings

Energy efficiency is fundamental for many reasons—it impacts your monthly energy bills, carbon footprint and regulatory compliance. The government has developed minimum HVAC efficiency ratings, but you can exceed these minimums to 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).

Establish Your Budget

Comparing 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 more expensive up-front cost, it can offer 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 unit. A specialist from a trustworthy company like Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can run the numbers to help you make an educated decision.

Consider Installation and Maintenance

The overall function and number of years provided by your HVAC system heavily depends on professional installation and regular maintenance. A correctly installed system will operate more efficiently and give you more years of service. In addition, replacing the filter, inspecting the unit for leaks and other maintenance duties are essential for the best possible performance. Always work with a trained expert who recognizes the needs of different HVAC systems.

Don’t Forget Indoor Air Quality

A good HVAC system does more than regulate the temperature; it also provides healthy indoor air quality. Most companies offer units with features like built-in air purifiers, humidifiers and dehumidifiers, which can substantially 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 boost your home’s comfort and efficiency, reach out to Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for help finding and installing a new HVAC system. Our ACE-certified technicians provide swift, 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 real difference in your comfort and health. For a system tailored 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!

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