How to Choose Heating and Air Conditioning System: All You Need to Know

The first thing to make note of when choosing an HVAC system is the different types of units and their functions. The most common HVAC system is a standard split system which involves a central air conditioner system and a furnace, however, there are other units that might meet your property and financial means better. Here are 3 of the common types of HVAC systems:

A split HVAC system has indoor and outdoor units, with the outdoor unit containing the condenser and compressor, and the indoor unit containing the evaporator and air handler. Split systems use an outdoor condenser and an indoor heating unit (often a furnace) to regulate home temperature. The air conditioner cools the air using refrigerant and sends it through ductwork.

Various configurations exist, including AC units with furnaces, heat pumps with air handlers (for warmer climates), and heat pumps with furnaces (for colder climates). Split systems are versatile upgrades for homes with existing ductwork, but new installations can be expensive and time-consuming.

A ductless split system heats or cools individual rooms without ductwork, using an outdoor unit connected to one or more indoor units. This system allows people to control the temperatures in each room without running their entire system. This option does require having large units installed on your walls or ceiling that are visible in the home.

A packaged HVAC system combines all heating and cooling components into a single outdoor unit, often installed on a roof or slab. This system best suits homes located in warmer climates. Packaged systems are easier to install if the home already has ductwork installed, however, they have shorter lifespans than split systems. These units cannot be customized and have an increased need for service calls that make them less desirable for many homeowners.

There are a number of things to ask yourself and consider to help highlight what your priorities are when selecting an HVAC system that will work best for you and your home including budget, comfort and energy efficiency. An HVAC buying guide would be incomplete without considering these important factors:

There are many different types of HVAC systems each with advantages and disadvantages based on your home and needs. For example, if you want to prioritize comfort in your living space, you might choose a heat pump in a split HVAC system.

If you want to be able to customize the temperatures in different locations of your home, a ductless split system would allow you to control each room’s temperature individually. Decide which system you think would work for you based on your home’s layout and priorities and discuss that with a technician before finalizing your decision.

An important factor that goes into deciding how to choose HVAC system includes the climate in the area that you live. For areas with harsh winters and moderate summers, a furnace combined with ductless cooling in frequently used rooms could be ideal. Conversely, in regions with extreme summers and mild winters, ductless heat pumps can efficiently cool key areas and provide minimal winter heating.

Your location also determines the minimum SEER rating standards your new HVAC system will need. All regions have slight differences in those standards, making it important that you know the minimum requirements for your area, regardless of the system you choose.

Choosing an HVAC system is more than just the beginning purchase price. Replacing your HVAC system is a significant investment covering equipment, installation, operating costs and long-term maintenance. Prices vary considerably, with some units costing double others, so careful budgeting is essential.

Expect to spend between $5,000 and $12,500, with the average homeowner paying around $7,500. The availability and cost of replacement parts, and the system’s warranty coverage are good things to research.Remember to keep in mind: your home’s size, local weather, type of systems, energy efficiency, system features, long-term costs.

When selecting your systems keep in mind these features:

• Programmable/Smart Thermostat: Smart thermostats offer remote control and monitoring of temperatures throughout your home via mobile apps for enhanced flexibility and energy savings. Programmable thermostats allow for customized temperature schedules based on daily routines, enhancing energy use and reducing costs.
• Zoning Systems: Zoning systems are ideal for larger homes, allowing customized heating and cooling in distinct temperature zones throughout the house.
• Variable Speed Motors: Variable speed motors adjust the speed of which your air meets the heating and cooling needs, resulting in more precise temperature control and improved energy efficiency.
• Air Purifications and Filtration: Advanced air purifiers and high-quality filters in HVAC systems enhance indoor air quality by removing allergens, dust, and other pollutants.

When you contemplate what HVAC system should I buy, you should keep in mind the type of unit you already have installed. Replacing your existing HVAC system with a similar type is often the most cost-effective and least disruptive option.

For example, if you don’t already have ductwork installed for central air or heating system, then you’ll likely spend about twice as much installing ducts if you want a ducted system installed. This is important to discuss what kind of labor will go into installing a new system based on what you have or don’t have already within the home.

Noise levels are another important factor. When a furnace kicks on near a common living space, it can be heard throughout the home. Ductless systems also generate some noise, both from the outdoor condenser unit and the indoor wall-mounted unit. This can be a concern for those whose priority is a quiet environment or with sensitive sleepers.

Choosing a good HVAC system for you depends on location, property features, and individual needs, consulting a local HVAC contractor in Sacramento is highly recommended.