For homeowners, investing in a Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system is a significant decision as it will considerably impact the energy efficiency and comfort of your home. But with so many options and complex technical jargon, choosing an HVAC unit is easier said than done.

To eliminate the confusion, here is a quick guide on the things homeowners should know before purchasing an HVAC unit-

1. Understand Your Needs

As with most appliances, the selection begins with first understanding your expectations and needs from the HVAC system. Some of the things you should thoroughly assess are the region where you live, home size, and the total number of occupants. These basic details can offer extensive clarity into the type and capacity of the HVAC unit you should consider for your home.

2. Energy Efficiency

Heating and air conditioning systems consume a lot of energy. Higher energy consumption means higher power costs and more damage to the environment. Thus, it is essential to consider the energy efficiency of the new HVAC system.

The heating efficiency of a heating system is measured in AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency). As for the air conditioning systems, they have a SEER2 (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating. For both heating and cooling units, the higher the AFUE and SEER2 ratings, the more energy efficient the system is.

(Note- The SEER rating system was used until 2022 but the new SEER2 system has been implemented since 1 January 2023).

2. System Type

HVAC systems are now available in many different variants like packaged, split, and mini-split (ductless) systems. Most homeowners generally prefer split systems that feature individual indoor and outdoor units. But if your home doesn’t have ductwork, a mini-split (ductless) system can be an apt choice.

In packaged units, all the components of the system are housed in a single unit which is generally installed outside the home. All of these different HVAC systems have their considerations and benefits. Carefully analyze your preferences and home to make a decision.

4. HVAC System Size

System size is another aspect that deserves your utmost attention. If the system is smaller than what your house needs, the energy consumption and wear and tear will be higher. On the other hand, if the system is oversized, it’ll frequently turn on/off and consume more power.

In both cases, you’ll end up spending more on your power bills and it can also lead to comfort issues and regular repairs.

5. Cost Considerations

Last but not least is the cost of the HVAC system. While most homeowners are generally concerned about the upfront costs, it is essential to also consider the long-term operating costs of the system.

So, while the cheapest HVAC system might save you some money now, it can prove more expensive in the long run as it might consume more power or require frequent repairs. Systems with a higher energy efficiency rating are more expensive but prove cost-effective on a long-term basis.

Trust a Professional HVAC Contractor to Choose the Right HVAC System for Your Home

As can be seen, there are many factors homeowners should take into consideration before choosing an HVAC system. While you can go through the process on your own if you have the knowledge and experience, it is generally better to rely on a professional HVAC contractor to make the decision.

For instance, the licensed HVAC technicians at Beeson Mechanical Service have the knowledge and skills to accurately understand the heating and cooling needs of a home. They also give special attention to the specific needs of the occupants to recommend HVAC systems that are just perfect for their needs. Contact us at 317-535-9338 to discuss your requirements.