Air conditioners in the United States cost homeowners a total of roughly $29 billion annually in energy usage. To save money on your energy bill and HVAC installation, it’s crucial to pick the right heating and cooling system for your home. With so many options for cooling and heating your home, choosing a system can be overwhelming.
Not sure where to start when it comes to choosing an HVAC system? Read on to learn everything you need to know about your air conditioning options!
Heating and Cooling System Types
Before you can choose an HVAC system for your home improvement, you need to understand some different types that are available. Each type of HVAC system has pros and cons, but which one is best for you depends on your home.
Central
Central systems are the most common type of HVAC. They work quickly and can heat and cool large homes well, but they also use more energy than other types of systems.
A central system uses an outdoor condenser connected to an indoor AC unit for cooling and a furnace, usually gas-powered, for heat. A system of ductwork circulates hot and cool air throughout the home.
Ductless Mini-Split
Some homes, like certain kinds of apartments and older houses, aren’t suitable for the ductwork necessary for central HVAC. Another option is a split system, which doesn’t use ductwork.
Rather, split systems use a small outdoor condenser connected to one or several indoor units. These units are typically mounted on an exterior wall.
Heat Pump
A less common type of HVAC is the heat pump system. Instead of using fuel to generate heat, a heat pump moves hot air between the outside and inside of a home.
While this type of system is highly energy-efficient, it isn’t suitable for areas with extremely hot or cold climates. Most heat pump systems also require ductwork.
What to Consider When Shopping
When you shop for HVAC systems, there are a few factors you should keep in mind to make the right choice.
Equipment and installation cost is important up front, but a more expensive system can sometimes save you money on utilities. Consider both the installation and operation costs.
The best way to gauge a system’s efficiency is the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) rating. This number is essentially a measure of how much energy the system uses annually. Look for a system with a high SEER to save on your energy bill.
Additionally, avoid overloading your home with HVAC equipment. Buying a system that is more powerful than your home requires can increase the operation and repair costs.
Keep in mind what your local HVAC contractor will be able to repair. A high-end or uncommon system may require a specialist who will charge you more for repairs and maintenance.
The Bottom Line on Choosing an HVAC System
Choosing a heating and cooling system is vital to keeping your home comfortable year-round. A new system can even lower your monthly energy costs. Contact us today to get a free quote on replacing your HVAC system!