How to Pick Out a Good HVAC System

When considering keeping your home comfortable all year, nothing is more critical than picking out the right heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system. This choice impacts your daily comfort, monthly utility expenses and all-around home efficiency. However, with so many system types, sizes and efficiency ratings, finding the ideal fit can be stressful. This guide simplifies the decision by walking you through the key factors to consider when choosing an HVAC system.

Kinds of HVAC Systems

Starting out—carefully consider 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 glance at a few of the most popular choices.

Traditional Furnace and Air Conditioner Combo

The most popular choice in the U.S. is to use a forced-air furnace and air conditioner in a combined system. Air is pulled in through return ducts, conditioned (heated or cooled) and then circulated via supply ducts. Furnaces might use natural gas, electricity, oil or propane, offering flexibility depending on your local energy sources. However, air conditioners for the most part operate using electricity.

Air-Source Heat Pumps

Heat pumps present a more efficient heating solution than electric furnaces, making them particularly popular in homes where electricity is the main or only energy source. These systems run similarly to air conditioners but can also reverse their operation to generate heat. If you live in a place with hot summers and mild winters, a heat pump could be perfect. Cold-climate models are also offered for efficient operation in very cold weather.

Ductless Mini-Splits

Ductless mini-splits are a type of air-source heat pump. They supply heating and cooling without the need for ductwork. These types of heat pump are very well suited for heating and cooling particular rooms, especially home offices or additions. Several indoor units can also connect to one 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, generally installed outside. These are ideal for smaller homes or specific parts of a home that need independent temperature control.

Geothermal Heat Pumps

Renowned for being environmentally friendly and highly efficient, geothermal heat pumps, also known as ground-source heat pumps, are a cutting-edge option. Like their air-source counterparts, they use electricity and refrigerant to move heat. That said, they exchange heat with the ground, which maintains a fairly consistent temperature all year, offering unparalleled efficiency. Installation includes setting up an underground loop system, which requires thoughtful consideration of local zoning and environmental laws.

Pick a Size

Wrong sizing is a common problem when picking out an HVAC system. Too large of a 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, consult an HVAC professional like the team at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We can assess your home’s features, layout and climate to locate a system that meets your home and household’s needs.

Review Energy Ratings

Energy efficiency is fundamental for several reasons—it affects your monthly energy bills, carbon footprint and regulatory compliance. The government has developed minimum HVAC efficiency ratings, but you can go above and beyond the regulations to increase your savings and minimize 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

Evaluating 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 higher up-front cost, it can provide major energy savings and improved comfort for years, making the investment worthwhile. That’s why it’s necessary to consider the overall cost of ownership when budgeting for your new HVAC unit. A pro 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 significantly depends on professional installation and regular maintenance. A correctly installed system will work more efficiently and last longer. In addition, replacing the filter, inspecting the unit for leaks and other maintenance duties are critical for maximum performance. Always work with a trained pro who knows the needs of different HVAC systems.

Make Indoor Air Quality a Priority

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 significantly improve the air you breathe. These features are especially beneficial for people with allergies or respiratory problems.

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 choosing and installing a new HVAC system. Our ACE-certified technicians offer quick, long-lasting solutions for all your comfort needs. We stand behind our work with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, so you can trust us to make a genuine 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 Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing today by calling 866-397-3787!

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