How to Choose an HVAC for Your Home
Your HVAC system is designed to make your indoor climate comfortable, no matter what the outside temperature is. There are many criteria to consider as you choose an HVAC for your home.
Consider Your Climate
The climate of your area will define what kind of HVAC system will best suit your needs, depending on the majority of its demand to either heat or cool your home. Professionals can advise on the best type of appliance you need. If you live in a place where winters are cold, a furnace or heat pump will be your first consideration. A furnace uses gas to warm up the air before diffusing it into the house and a heat pump uses outside air to both warm and cool the air going into your home. If the climate is warm and humid, you need an HVAC to lower home temperature and control humidity. If you have added rooms to your home after initial construction, you might want to customize the system in one of the rooms. If so, ductless systems are recommended.
Choose Energy-Efficient
If you are looking for a quality HVAC that will lower your electricity bills, take a look at the SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio). This ratio measures energy efficiency through rigorous performance standards. The higher the rating, the more efficient the system will be. The initial cost to purchase energy-efficient cooling and heating appliances is higher than others but will allow you to save money in the long term because of lower operating costs.
Balance With Your Budget
Your budget is a big factor in any major purchase. It is essential to consider the price of the unit as well as the cost of installation. To avoid surprises, have an experienced contractor help you choose the right system based on your specific needs and what you can spend.
Suit to Size
To get the best performance from your HVAC system, make sure the size of your equipment is compatible with the size of the building. An oversized system may cause unnecessary temperature changes and increase energy costs. In the long run, it may cost more than what you should have spent. If undersized, it can put too much pressure on the system and cause it to break faster, causing a waste of money and energy. To determine the right size, a load calculation can be useful. Specialists measure square footage, verify insulation, roof, windows, and wall structure to build an estimate, then they match the system size to that result.
Keep Children Safe
Image via Flickr by pedrosimoes7
When you have your HVAC system installed, be sure to choose a location where children can’t access it. The risks for accidental injuries include cuts on sharp edges, burns on hot surfaces, and contact with electrical wire. Major components should be located in a closet, the basement, or the attic. The outdoor condenser of the HVAC system should have a protective cage around it to prevent children from climbing on it and injuring themselves.
HVAC systems are designed to last for about 20 years and it is a long-term investment that requires planning and attention to detail. By taking the time to evaluate all the options, you can enjoy an efficient system that doesn’t break the bank and keeps everyone in your home comfortable.
