How to Find a Suitable HVAC System

When it comes to keeping your home comfortable year-round, nothing is more critical than selecting the right heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system. This choice affects your daily comfort, monthly utility bills and general home efficiency. Then again, with so many system types, sizes and efficiency ratings, finding the ideal fit can be confusing. This guide takes the stress out of the process by walking you through the primary factors to consider when choosing an HVAC system.

Types of HVAC Systems

Starting out—think about your climate, the size of your home and your personal comfort preferences to help determine what type of HVAC unit you need. Here’s a closer look at a few of the most popular systems.

Conventional Furnace and Air Conditioner Combination

The most widely selected choice in the U.S. is to use a forced-air furnace and air conditioner in a single system. Air is drawn in through return ducts, conditioned (heated or cooled) and then circulated via supply ducts. Furnaces may use natural gas, electricity, oil or propane, offering flexibility depending on your local energy sources. On the other hand, air conditioners for the most part are powered by electricity.

Air-Source Heat Pumps

Heat pumps offer a more efficient heating solution than electric furnaces, making them particularly popular in homes where electricity is the main or only energy source. These systems run in a similar manner to air conditioners but can also reverse their operation to generate heat. If you are living in an area with hot summers and mild winters, a heat pump could be great. Cold-climate styles are also designed for efficient operation in harsher weather.

Ductless Mini-Splits

Ductless mini-splits are a kind of air-source heat pump. They supply heating and cooling without requiring ductwork. These types of heat pump are ideal for heating and cooling specific rooms, including home offices or additions. Multiple indoor units can also hook up to a lone outdoor unit for whole-house comfort when desired.

Comprehensive Systems

Packaged systems are an all-in-one solution where every component is housed in a single unit, generally installed outside. These are excellent for compact homes or specific spaces that need customized temperature control.

Geothermal Heat Pumps

Known for being good for the environment and extremely energy efficient, geothermal heat pumps, also referred to as ground-source heat pumps, are a highly innovative option. Much like their air-source counterparts, they use electricity and refrigerant to deliver heat. But, they exchange heat with the ground, which keeps a fairly consistent temperature all the time, offering unrivaled efficiency. Installation includes setting up an underground loop system, which involves careful consideration of local zoning and environmental laws.

Select a Size

Wrong sizing is a common problem when selecting an HVAC system. An oversized unit will cycle on and off frequently, lowering efficiency and increasing wear and tear. On the other hand, a unit that doesn’t have enough capacity may not be able to provide a comfortable temperature on the hottest and coldest days. To pick the right size, consult an HVAC professional like the team at Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We can assess your home’s features, layout and climate to recommend a system that’s the perfect match for your home.

Find the Best Energy Ratings

Energy efficiency is important for several reasons—it impacts your monthly energy bills, carbon footprint and regulatory compliance. The government has set minimum HVAC efficiency ratings, but you can go above and beyond the regulations to increase your savings and reduce your environmental impact. Look for air conditioners with a high seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) and furnaces with high annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE).

Think About Your Budget

Balancing the original cost with long-term efficiency and other benefits is fundamental 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 provide considerable energy savings and improved comfort for years, making the unit a good fit for your finances. That’s why it’s important to consider the overall cost of ownership when budgeting for your new HVAC system. A pro from a reliable company like Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing can run the numbers to help you make an informed decision.

Think About 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 function more efficiently and have a longer service life. Additionally, replacing the filter, monitoring the unit for leaks and other maintenance tasks are crucial for optimal performance. Always work with a skilled expert who understands the needs of different HVAC systems.

Prioritize Indoor Air Quality

A good HVAC system does more than manage the temperature; it also provides healthy indoor air quality. Most companies offer units with features like built-in air purifiers, humidifiers and dehumidifiers, which can substantially improve the air you breathe. These features are extremely important for people with allergies or respiratory challenges.

Choose Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for Heating & Air Conditioning in Canada

When you’re ready to improve your home’s comfort and efficiency, turn to Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for help choosing and installing a new HVAC system. Our ACE-certified technicians offer fast, long-lasting solutions for all your comfort needs. We back our work with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, so you can rely on us to make a genuine difference in your comfort and health. For a system tailored to meet your home and family’s distinct needs in Canada, contact Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing today by calling 866-397-3787!