Things to consider when buying a new HVAC system

Buying a new HVAC system for your home is one of the biggest decisions that you will ever make—not because it’s a costly investment, but it determines whether or not you will be comfortable at home. After buying a new HVAC system, everyone expects an efficient and smooth system—however, that’s not the case at times. 

So, why does this happen? 

It mostly happens if you fail to consult a professional HVAC technician before buying the new system. A certified heating and air fayetteville nc technician can help you choose the best HVAC system for your home, after taking into consideration the size and features of your home, as well as your budget and comfort concerns. When you need hvac repair fayetteville nc Honest Air is your call. With that, let’s look at a few things to consider when buying a new HVAC system. 

The type of HVAC system

The first thing to consider when buying a new HVAC system is the type of system that you want. Typically, HVAC systems come in four different types. However, two of these are the most common, and they include:

  • Split systems – these are the most common type, as they are found in most homes in the United States. Split HVAC systems are suitable for larger homes, with lots of space. These systems use a furnace, condensing unit, and coil. They are very economical and efficient. However, split HVAC systems require accessibility in the attic, basement, and crawlspace. 
  • Packaged systems – these are suitable for homes with limited space for an HVAC system. Most packaged HVAC systems include a heat pump/air conditioner combination, fan coil, evaporator, and thermostat. The components of a package system are mostly contained in a closet. 

Size

It’s important to choose the right size for your home. Although your contractor can help you solve this part of the problem, it’s essential to know why the right size matters. If you buy an HVAC system that’s the wrong size for your home, you will start dealing with new issues. If the system is very small, it won’t heat or cool your home properly. On the other hand, if the system is too large, it will have frequent on and off cycles, which will lead to wastage of energy, and increased utility bills. Therefore, it’s always a good thing to let a contractor do a load calculation for your home, even if you are replacing your existing HVAC system. 

Energy efficiency 

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER), is an energy rating system created by the U.S. government. SEER is a metric used to determine the cooling power and HVAC system generates for every energy unit it uses. Thus, SEER rating tells you how efficiently an HVAC system runs. Look for HVAC systems with SEER ratings of 13 and above. The thing with HVAC systems with high seer rating is that they are more energy-efficient and last longer. 

Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating helps to determine the heating efficiency of a furnace. Furnaces with higher AFUE ratings are considered more efficient. Heat pumps, on the other hand, have a rating similar to SEER. The rating is known as the Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF), which measures the heating portion of a heat pump. Also, heat pumps with a higher HSPF rating are more efficient. 

Now, these are important things to consider when buying a new HVAC system. Please note that for your new HVAC system to achieve the optimal efficiency indicated on the EnergyGuide Label, a professional HVAC contractor should install it. These energy efficiency ratings will be meaningless if the system is not installed properly. 

Noise levels

It’s important to ensure that your new system isn’t creating unwanted disturbances around your home. Today, the HVAC industry is working hard to reduce the operating sound of HVAC systems. Therefore, always ensure you check the noise levels of an HVAC system before making your decision. Always ask your dealer about the noise levels of the system, which are measured in decibels. Always go for a system with noise levels under 60 decibels (db.).