How to Pick Out an Effective HVAC System
In terms of keeping your home comfortable year-round, nothing is more critical than picking out the right heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system. This determination affects your daily comfort, monthly utility costs and all-around home efficiency. Then again, with so many system types, sizes and efficiency ratings, finding the perfect fit can be confusing. This guide simplifies the decision by walking you through the important factors to give consideration to when picking out an HVAC system.
Types of HVAC Systems
Starting out—take a moment to look at your climate, the size of your home and your personal comfort needs to help determine what type of HVAC unit you should install. Here’s a peek at a few of the most popular systems.
Conventional Furnace and Air Conditioner Combo
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, conditioned (heated or cooled) and then distributed 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 operate using electricity.
Air-Source Heat Pumps
Heat pumps supply a more efficient heating option than electric furnaces, making them especially popular in homes where electricity is the primary or exclusive energy source. These systems work similarly to air conditioners but can also reverse their operation to provide heating. If you reside in an area with hot summers and mild winters, a heat pump could be great. 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 requiring ductwork. These systems are ideal for heating and cooling individual rooms, especially home offices or additions. Several indoor units can also connect to one outdoor unit for whole-house comfort when desired.
All-In-One Systems
Packaged systems are an all-in-one solution where every component is located in a single unit, usually installed outside. These are ideal for modest homes or specific parts of a home that need customized 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 highly innovative option. Similar to their air-source counterparts, they use electricity and refrigerant to deliver heat. However, they exchange heat with the ground, which holds a relatively consistent temperature all the time, offering unrivaled efficiency. Installation includes setting up an underground loop system, which requires careful consideration of local zoning and environmental guidelines.
Select a Size
Improper sizing is a common mistake when selecting an HVAC system. A system that’s too big will cycle on and off frequently, reducing efficiency and increasing wear and tear. Conversely, an undersized system may not be able to provide a comfortable temperature on the hottest and coldest days. To find the right size, consult an HVAC professional like the team at Bryant Heating & Cooling Service Experts. We can evaluate your home’s features, layout and climate to locate a system that meets your home and household’s needs.
Find the Best Energy Ratings
Energy efficiency is important for a number of reasons—it affects your monthly energy costs, carbon footprint and regulatory compliance. The government has set minimum HVAC efficiency ratings, but installing a system that goes beyond the minimums can increase your savings and reduce 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
Balancing 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 greater up-front cost, it can provide significant 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 important to consider the overall cost of ownership when budgeting for your new HVAC unit. A specialist from a trusted company like Bryant Heating & Cooling Service Experts can run the numbers to help you make an educated decision.
Contemplate Installation and Maintenance
The overall function and life span of 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. Then, replacing the filter, inspecting the unit for leaks and other maintenance activities are critical for optimal performance. Always work with a trained expert who recognizes the needs of different HVAC systems.
Make Indoor Air Quality a Priority
A good HVAC system does more than regulate the temperature; it also ensures healthy indoor air quality. Options like built-in air purifiers, humidifiers and dehumidifiers, which can significantly improve the air you breathe. These features are particularly beneficial for people with allergies or respiratory problems.
Choose Bryant Heating & Cooling Service Experts for Heating & Air Conditioning in Windsor
When you’re ready to improve your home’s comfort and efficiency, choose Bryant Heating & Cooling Service Experts for help finding and installing a new HVAC system. Our certified technicians provide quick, long-lasting solutions for all your comfort needs. We stand behind our work with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, so you can count on us to make a real difference in your comfort and health. For a system created to meet your home and family’s distinct needs in Windsor, contact Bryant Heating & Cooling Service Experts today by calling 226-773-3357!