How to Find a Suitable HVAC System
When it comes to keeping your home comfortable all year, nothing is more important than selecting the right heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system. This choice influences your daily comfort, monthly utility costs and all-around home efficiency. Then again, with so many system types, sizes and efficiency ratings, finding the ideal fit can be stressful. This guide makes the choice easier by walking you through the important factors to consider when selecting an HVAC system.
Types of HVAC Systems
Starting out—take a moment to look at your climate, the size of your home and your personal comfort preferences to help determine what type of HVAC unit you will need. Here’s a closer look at a few of the most popular options.
Conventional Furnace and Air Conditioner Setup
The most popular choice in the U.S. is to use a forced-air furnace and air conditioner in a single system. Air flows 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 resources. On the other hand, air conditioners typically run on electricity.
Air-Source Heat Pumps
Heat pumps supply a more efficient heating solution than electric furnaces, making them especially popular in homes where electricity is the main or exclusive energy source. These systems run a lot like air conditioners but can also reverse their operation to provide heating. If you are living in a place with hot summers and mild winters, a heat pump could be perfect. Cold-climate styles are also offered for efficient operation in nastier weather.
Ductless Mini-Splits
Ductless mini-splits are a variety of air-source heat pump. They create heating and cooling without the use of ductwork. These devices are ideal for heating and cooling particular rooms, including home offices or additions. Many indoor units can also hook up to a lone outdoor unit for whole-house comfort when desired.
All-In-One Systems
Packaged systems are an all-in-one solution where every element is housed in a single unit, generally installed outside. These are great for modest homes or specific areas that need customized temperature control.
Geothermal Heat Pumps
Renowned for being good for the environment and extremely energy efficient, geothermal heat pumps, also referred to as ground-source heat pumps, are a cutting-edge option. Similar to their air-source counterparts, they use electricity and refrigerant to transfer heat. That said, they exchange heat with the ground, which maintains a fairly consistent temperature all year, offering unparalleled efficiency. Installation includes setting up an underground loop system, which involves some consideration of local zoning and environmental guidelines.
Pick a Size
Improper sizing is a common problem when choosing an HVAC system. An oversized unit will cycle on and off frequently, reducing efficiency and increasing wear and tear. Having said that, an undersized system may not be able to provide a comfortable temperature on the hottest and coldest days. To find the right size, work with an HVAC professional like the team at A1 Chesney Service Experts. We can evaluate your home’s features, layout and climate to suggest a system that’s the perfect match for your home.
Review Energy Ratings
Energy efficiency is important for many reasons—it impacts your monthly energy costs, carbon footprint and regulatory compliance. The government has established 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 conditioners with a high seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) and furnaces with high annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE).
Establish Your Budget
Comparing the start-up 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 higher up-front cost, it can offer major energy savings and improved comfort for years, making the investment worthwhile. That’s why it’s crucial to consider the long-term cost of ownership when budgeting for your new HVAC unit. A pro from a trustworthy company like A1 Chesney Service Experts can run the numbers to help you make an informed decision.
Contemplate Installation and Maintenance
The overall function and life span of your HVAC system heavily depends on professional installation and regular maintenance. A correctly installed system will operate more efficiently and give you more years of service. Then, replacing the filter, monitoring the unit for leaks and other maintenance duties are essential for the best possible performance. Always work with a skilled pro who recognizes the needs of different HVAC systems.
Don’t Forget Indoor Air Quality
A good HVAC system does more than control 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 significantly improve the air you breathe. These features are extremely good options for people with allergies or respiratory challenges.
Choose A1 Chesney Service Experts for Heating & Air Conditioning in Calgary
When you’re ready to boost your home’s comfort and efficiency, turn to A1 Chesney Service Experts for help choosing and installing a new HVAC system. Our certified technicians deliver fast, long-lasting solutions for all your heating and cooling needs. We stand behind our work with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, so you can rely on us to make a real difference in your comfort and health. For a system created to meet your home and family’s distinct needs in Calgary, contact A1 Chesney Service Experts today by calling 587-315-5271!
