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How to Find a Suitable HVAC System

In terms of keeping your home comfortable year-round, nothing is more important than selecting the right heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system. This decision influences your daily comfort, monthly utility costs and overall home efficiency. However, with so many system types, sizes and efficiency ratings, finding the perfect fit can be overwhelming. This guide makes the choice easier by walking you through the primary factors to think about when picking out an HVAC system.

Types of HVAC Systems

Starting out—carefully consider your climate, the size of your home and your personal comfort requirements to help determine what type of HVAC unit you should install. Here’s a glance at some of the most popular options.

Traditional Furnace and Air Conditioner Combination

The most popular choice in the U.S. is to use a forced-air furnace and air conditioner in one system. Air is pulled in through return ducts, conditioned (heated or cooled) and then distributed via supply ducts. Furnaces may use natural gas, electricity, oil or propane, offering flexibility depending on your local resources. However, air conditioners typically run on electricity.

Air-Source Heat Pumps

Heat pumps provide a more efficient heating option than electric furnaces, making them particularly popular in homes where electricity is the main or sole energy source. These systems operate a lot like air conditioners but can also reverse their operation to provide heating. If you live in a place with hot summers and mild winters, a heat pump could be excellent. Cold-climate styles are also available for efficient operation in harsher weather.

Ductless Mini-Splits

Ductless mini-splits are a variety of air-source heat pump. They provide heating and cooling without requiring ductwork. These types of heat pump are ideal for heating and cooling particular rooms, such as home offices or additions. Several indoor units can also hook up to one outdoor unit for whole-house comfort when desired.

Comprehensive Systems

Packaged systems are an all-in-one solution where every element is housed in a single unit, typically installed outside. These are great 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 called ground-source heat pumps, are a state of the art option. Like their air-source counterparts, they use electricity and refrigerant to deliver heat. That said, they exchange heat with the ground, which keeps a pretty consistent temperature throughout the year, offering unrivaled efficiency. Installation includes setting up an underground loop system, which requires careful consideration of local zoning and environmental laws.

Select a Size

Wrong sizing is a common problem when choosing an HVAC system. A system that’s too big will cycle on and off frequently, lowering efficiency and increasing wear and tear. On the other hand, a system that isn’t powerful enough can’t keep up with demand on the hottest and coldest days. To determine the right size, consult 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 the perfect match for your home.

Find the Best Energy Ratings

Energy efficiency is vital for many reasons—it impacts your monthly energy costs, 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 reduce your environmental impact. Look for air conditioners 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 crucial 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 significant 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 overall cost of ownership when budgeting for your new HVAC system. A pro from a trustworthy company like Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can run the numbers to help you make an informed decision.

Consider Installation and Maintenance

The performance and number of years provided by your HVAC system significantly depends on professional installation and regular maintenance. A correctly installed system will function more efficiently and have a longer service life. In addition, replacing the filter, checking the unit for leaks and other maintenance activities are critical for the best possible performance. Always work with a skilled professional who knows the needs of different HVAC systems.

Make Indoor Air Quality a Priority

A good HVAC system does more than manage the temperature; it also ensures healthy indoor air quality. Many models are available with built-in air purifiers, humidifiers and dehumidifiers, which can greatly improve the air you breathe. These features are particularly 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 increase your home’s comfort and efficiency, turn to Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for help choosing and installing a new HVAC system. Our ACE-certified technicians provide swift, long-lasting solutions for all your HVAC equipment needs. We support our work with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, so you can trust us to make a real difference in your comfort and well-being. For a system designed 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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