How to Choose an Effective HVAC System
When considering keeping your home comfortable all year, nothing is more important than selecting the right heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system. This decision affects your daily comfort, monthly utility costs and general home efficiency. Then again, with so many system types, sizes and efficiency ratings, finding the most appropriate fit can be overwhelming. This guide makes the choice easier by walking you through the primary factors to give consideration to when selecting an HVAC system.
Types of HVAC Systems
First—think about 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 couple of the most popular choices.
Conventional Furnace and Air Conditioner Combo
The most common choice in the U.S. is to use a forced-air furnace and air conditioner in a combined system. Air is drawn 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 usually run on electricity.
Air-Source Heat Pumps
Heat pumps offer a more efficient heating remedy than electric furnaces, making them particularly popular in homes where electricity is the primary or sole energy source. These systems run similarly to air conditioners but can also reverse their operation to provide heating. If you are living in an area with hot summers and mild winters, a heat pump could be perfect. Cold-climate models are also designed for efficient operation in nastier weather.
Ductless Mini-Splits
Ductless mini-splits are a type of air-source heat pump. They provide heating and cooling without requiring ductwork. These systems are perfect for heating and cooling specific rooms, such as home offices or additions. Numerous indoor units can also connect to one outdoor unit for whole-house comfort when desired.
Packaged Systems
Packaged systems are an all-in-one solution where every element is located in a single unit, generally installed outside. These are great for smaller homes or specific areas that need independent temperature control.
Geothermal Heat Pumps
Known for being environmentally friendly and highly efficient, geothermal heat pumps, also known as ground-source heat pumps, are a highly innovative option. Like their air-source counterparts, they use electricity and refrigerant to move heat. But, they exchange heat with the ground, which holds a pretty consistent temperature all the time, offering unparalleled efficiency. Installation includes setting up an underground loop system, which demands some consideration of local zoning and environmental rules.
Determine a Size
Incorrect sizing is a common problem when choosing an HVAC system. An oversized unit will cycle on and off frequently, lowering efficiency and increasing wear and tear. Having said that, a system that isn’t powerful enough can’t keep up with demand on the hottest and coldest days. To find the right size, contact an HVAC professional like the team at Rob's Albertan Service Experts. We can evaluate your home’s features, layout and climate to suggest a system that’s just right.
Compare Energy Ratings
Energy efficiency is vital for a number of 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 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
Evaluating the start-up 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 investment worthwhile. That’s why it’s important to consider the long-term cost of ownership when budgeting for your new HVAC unit. A professional from a reputable company like Rob's Albertan Service Experts can run the numbers to help you make an informed decision.
Contemplate Installation and Maintenance
The operation and life expectancy of your HVAC system heavily depends on professional installation and regular maintenance. A correctly installed system will work more efficiently and give you more years of service. In addition, replacing the filter, inspecting the unit for leaks and other maintenance tasks are essential for the best possible performance. Always work with a skilled professional who recognizes the needs of different HVAC systems.
Make Indoor Air Quality a Priority
A good HVAC system does more than control the temperature; it also provides healthy indoor air quality. Options like built-in air purifiers, humidifiers and dehumidifiers, which can greatly improve the air you breathe. These features are particularly good options for people with allergies or respiratory challenges.
Choose Rob's Albertan Service Experts for Heating & Air Conditioning in Edmonton
When you’re ready to improve your home’s comfort and efficiency, reach out to Rob's Albertan Service Experts for help finding and installing a new HVAC system. Our certified technicians provide swift, long-lasting solutions for all your HVAC equipment 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 well-being. For a system tailored to meet your home and family’s distinct needs in Edmonton, contact Rob's Albertan Service Experts today by calling 780-800-9047!
