Selecting the right HVAC system is an important factor in keeping the temperature of your home comfortable all year round while keeping the costs as low as possible. Pick the wrong unit and your house might not be as comfortable or the cost of keeping your home pleasant could skyrocket.
Here are four tips for selecting the right HVAC system.
Check Your Ductwork
Before getting started, have your ductwork inspected by a knowledgeable professional to ensure that it is free of leaks and there is no buildup of debris, allergens or other potential problems. Leaks in your ductwork can cause your HVAC system to lose efficiency and increase the cost of heating and cooling your home. If there are allergens or mold in your ductwork, it can spread these unhealthy elements throughout your house. Make sure your ductwork is working properly before deciding what kind of HVAC system you wish to purchase for your home.
Be Aware of Energy Efficiency Ratings
When it comes to HVAC systems, there are many choices to make but one of the more important ones is the energy efficiency rating of your furnace. The higher the energy efficiency rating, the less time your furnace will have to run to keep your home comfortable. While a more efficient model furnace may cost you more up front, they will save you money on your energy bills each month. Keep in mind that older furnaces may have efficiency ratings as low as 56 percent while modern models have ratings as high as 97 percent. Consult a professional to determine which energy efficient model is best for your home, neighborhood, and budget.
Choose a Type of Furnace
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There are many types of furnaces available that can use different types of fuel to heat and/or cool your house. Whether you use natural gas, oil, or electricity, you need to consider what’s available in your neighborhood, the cost of each type of fuel and how effectively each fuel heats or cools your home. For example, in the relatively mild winters of Birmingham, Alabama, a system that uses a heat pump may be more than sufficient to both cool and heat your home all year round. These are among the many questions you should ask a local professional to make sure your home has the best HVAC system possible for your climate, budget, and home type.
Figure Out What Speed Your Furnace Should Run At
There are also furnaces that run at different speeds. Older models are usually single-state air handlers and only run at one speed. They are either on high or off. Two-stage air handlers can run on low or high speed and by running them on low speed you can save money. Many modern models have variable-speed air handlers which allows the homeowner to choose the best speed to keep their house comfortable. Choosing the type of furnace that is best for your home is something a professional can help you with.
Choosing the right furnace for your house is an important decision that will determine how high your energy bills will be each month and how pleasant your home’s temperatures will feel as seasons change. Keep this in mind when consulting a professional to make the most comfortable choice for your family.
