When it comes to your home, you want the best equipment, or at least the best that fits your budget. That is why, for many homeowners, choosing an HVAC system is serious business. Unfortunately, this is a matter with no one-size-fits-all solution, and the reality is that there are so many options, as well as so many things to consider, that it can be downright overwhelming.
Well, don’t fret, because we’re here to help! We understand there’s a lot of information out there to digest and things can sound complicated, but trust us, there’s only a few key things you need to know to make the process of choosing an HVAC system much easier. We will discuss them below and hopefully send you on your way to choosing the right HVAC system.
First, a Primer: What is an HVAC System?
HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. In other words, an HVAC system’s job is to heat and cool indoor spaces, as well as improve indoor air quality. In this regard, they include air conditioners, furnaces, heat pumps, air purifiers, and more. In addition, they also include smart thermostats and control systems to make everything work.
Once your HVAC system is installed, you’ll be able to control your home’s temperature through the thermostat. It is the thermostat that communicates with the other components of your HVAC system, telling them to generate warm or cool air as needed, and to be distributed throughout your home through the ductwork or an air handler. Although most HVAC systems are powered by electricity these days, some furnaces use gas and oil.
What HVAC System is Right For Me?
The first thing to know is that all homes are different. This means that the right HVAC system for someone else’s home may not be the best for yours.
Here’s what you need to consider when choosing the right HVAC system:
1. Type of Fuel
In terms of HVAC systems, fuel type is the most basic classification, so start with that when deciding the system you want. By selecting the fuel options that are most practical for you, you’ll be able to narrow down your options.
Of course, you should also consider whether a hybrid system works best. For instance, natural gas is one of the most economical ways to heat a home, but you’ll still need an air conditioner for cooling. A hybrid system that uses both may therefore be the ideal option. So, if necessary, consider using components that use different fuel sources, as it may allow for the most efficiency and long-term cost effectiveness.
2. The Size of The Unit
What size of HVAC unit do you need? This is a question we get a lot. The fact is, an HVAC unit that’s too big for your home will end up wasting you money on energy bills. Conversely, one that’s too small won’t be strong enough to cool or heat your home.
The simplest way to determine the correct HVAC size you need (or the number of BTUs of heating and tons of AC that is required to heat and cool your home) is to consult with an HVAC dealer to perform an energy audit. Most dealers will offer this for free!
If you want a rough estimate and do the calculation yourself, just multiply your home’s square footage by 25 BTUs, which is what HVAC contractors consider the generally accepted heating/cooling required per square foot.
3. Energy Efficiency
If you live in a hot area, buy an energy-efficient HVAC system. This will allow your energy costs to drop by as much as 20-40%. On your air conditioner, look for the seasonal energy-efficiency ratio (SEER). This is the rating that measures heat pump and air conditioner efficiency. A higher rating indicates less energy use. Brands rated 22+ are among the most efficient, while others rated 14 and above are considered relatively energy efficient. To give you an idea, in Texas, HVAC units are required to have a SEER rating of 15.
4. Additional Features
Along with the cooling and heating aspects of your HVAC system, you also need to consider what features you’d like it to have. After all, these can go a long way to making your life easier.
HVAC units with smart technology let you monitor your AC remotely. Also, you can upgrade your home’s energy efficiency by installing a thermostat that allows you to program a temperature schedule based on your daily routine.
5. The Total Cost
Naturally, you’ll need to set a reasonable budget for an HVAC system. But remember, cheap isn’t always best here–and indeed, cheap might mean more expensive in the long run.
In addition to the initial cost of buying and installing a new HVAC unit, there are also long-term costs to consider. Keep in mind that your HVAC system is a long-term investment. The cost of your unit is influenced by many factors, including utility costs, maintenance and repair requirements, and the unit’s estimated lifespan. While high efficiency HVAC systems may cost more at the beginning, they can save money overtime by lowering your energy bills.
6. Your HVAC Contractor
A good HVAC contractor is another key to a quality system. To ensure its long-term success, an HVAC system must be designed and customized for the home in which it will be installed. Your HVAC contractor should evaluate the whole system, including the ductwork and the indoor air quality requirements. Depending on your individual needs, they should be able to make recommendations tailored to you, your property, and your lifestyle.
Are You Deciding On an HVAC System?
If you’re looking for an HVAC system for your new home, the HVAC specialists at Young’s Mechanical can help! Our team specializes in HVAC installation, maintenance, and repairs in Social Circle, Georgia, and can help you get the best deal on the right system for your needs. Give us a call today to discuss your options!
