Posted on

Buying Guide To Choose The Best HVAC System

Best HVAC System

One of the most significant purchases you can make for your house is purchasing a new HVAC system or upgrading an existing one. According to Consumer Reports, an air conditioning system is used in over 75% of American households, and central air is installed in 90% of new houses. A well-functioning HVAC system fitted with an efficient air conditioning filter creates a pleasant atmosphere for you to work, rest, and enjoy your house to the fullest.

But learning everything, there is to know about HVAC systems might be frightening. It’s reasonable to feel overwhelmed and perplexed regarding HVAC units, given the vast amount of data available online.

That’s why we’ve created the best HVAC system buying guide to assist you in making an informed purchase.

Understanding An HVAC System

HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. It is a type of technology that enables you to control and manage the temperature as well as humidity in your home. With the aid of HVAC systems, users may effectively regulate a space’s heating and cooling temperatures.

Read More – HVAC Maintenance Checklist

HVAC System Types

HVAC systems come in four primary categories. You should select the one that is most appropriate for your house and budget.

  • Split System: Usually, HVAC systems are “split” into two primary sections or systems. One for the purpose of cooling and the other one for heating.
  • Hybrid System: It’s a more advanced form of the split system, with the primary difference being that it comes integrated with a hybrid electric heater system, which improves energy efficiency.
  • Ductless System: It is appropriate for residences without access to traditional ductwork and comprises an outside air conditioner that takes care of cooling and a heat pump for the purpose of both heating and cooling.
  • Packaged System: It provides superior cooling and heating in a single unit, is typically installed outside, and is utilized in houses without basements.

Factors To Consider While Purchasing

1. Home Comfort Aspects: Temperature and Air Quality

You should consider the fact how different heating and cooling systems will affect the temperature, energy use, and quality of the air within your home. For instance, have you ever thought of adding a UV light to the HVAC system to improve indoor air quality? Or using a HEPA air filter system in your HVAC unit to prevent allergens from getting inside your home? You may get the best heating and cooling system for reducing humidity and addressing airborne pollutants by doing a little research.

2. Efficiency Level

HVAC systems have become more efficient over time. As a result, rating scales are used to assess their effectiveness. Study the system ratings, including the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER), Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF), Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE), and Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER).

3. Size System

Be careful when you choose the size of the system. A properly sized system is really necessary, and it may not be present in older houses. Equipment that is too large cycles too frequently, which reduces its lifespan. Additionally, it won’t offer the comfort level and indoor air quality in the same way as a system that is appropriately sized would provide.

An HVAC professional should be able to guide you regarding the appropriate size of the system that your home requires because the calculations frequently entail taking into account a wide range of variables. It includes variables such as tree protection, exposure to the sun, and insulation, along with square footage and the height of the ceiling.  

4. Capacity

Effective heating and cooling have become possible in your house thanks to the new and efficient HVAC systems. BTUs (British Thermal Units) are used to gauge an HVAC system’s capability. Generally speaking, the capacity increases with an increasing BTU rating.

5. Compatible with Programmable Thermostats

Make sure the system you choose can be used with a contemporary, programmed thermostat. You can do this to manage the heating and cooling system from just about anywhere. By switching the device on or off when you are not using it, you will also be able to reduce your energy costs. Additionally, it will increase the HVAC unit’s lifespan. The most advanced units may be managed through a smartphone from any location, while other systems are controllable via a cable to different areas of a house.

6. Components Of Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)

HVAC systems frequently include IAQ add-ons such as humidifiers and efficient air filter systems. When installing or upgrading an HVAC unit, the majority of contractors will provide discounts on these extras. So, inquire with your contractor regarding add-ons.

7. Maintenance

Invest in a Low Maintenance HVAC system if you want it to work at its best. When negotiating the cost of installation, keep in mind to negotiate a service package too that includes frequent inspections, repairs at a lower cost, and a warranty.

8. Noise

An HVAC system may be somewhat loud, depending on its design and location of installation. To ensure the system you select is a suitable fit for your house and your level of tolerance for noise, speak with an expert HVAC contractor.

9. Price

Even if it costs more than other HVAC units, your objective when selecting the ideal HVAC system ought to be to keep your house at a pleasant temperature. Although your budget is one of the important considerations when purchasing an HVAC system, you should also take durability and energy efficiency into account.

Note that the savings made on electricity and maintenance expenses by getting the right capacity and a decent quality unit should go into any purchase choice.

10. Warranties

Consider and evaluate the warranties that manufacturers and contractors are ready to provide. When anything breaks, a warranty may save you a ton of time, money, and hassle. When purchasing new, a default warranty frequently covers some of the parts and repairs. Be careful to purchase transferrable warranties if you intend to flip a house or sell a house.

Conclusion

When choosing the ideal HVAC system for your home, there are a lot of factors to take into account. Each HVAC unit has a variety of components and add-on possibilities. The type of system you choose, its size, BTUs in relation to the size of your space, the installation procedure, overall maintenance, warranties, price, energy efficiency, and all the other factors we covered in this article are ultimately the most crucial factors to consider. You’ll be able to choose the best HVAC system by checking off each of these requirements.

Additionally, if you want to add an equally efficient air filter system to your HVAC unit, you may contact US Home Filter and get the custom air filters built for your system. It’ll improve the air quality of your house.