The HVAC or Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning system is among the most critical components in the home. It is also the most intimidating for homeowners not only in deciding which unit is right for their home but ultimately to maintain. Typically, a part of HVAC maintenance is annual professional inspections that prevent defects and malfunctions, allowing for a longer lifespan. In trying to understand the differences between the various systems, speaking with a contractor may assist you in making a more educated decision.
Common HVAC Systems For Residential Properties
Homeowners trying to decide which HVAC system is better for their particular region and more suited for their specific needs may want to consult an HVAC contractor at a site such as fuseappliancerepair.com. The technicians versed in the various units can assist in their difference and unique benefits.
Among the most popular residential systems is the Standard Split.
With this unit, there is one component inside, and the other is outside. Addressing the configuration happens in several ways to meet the climatic demands:
- A majority of the systems have a gas furnace with only a slight few offering oils because the efficiency with gas can range between 80 up to 98 percent. They do better in warm climates, but the suggestion is that they are a much more cost-effective choice for environments deemed to be extremely cold. The installation of the air conditioning condenser unit takes place outside.
- The split system heat pumps are typical in the warmer regions where extreme cold is unusual. Rather than having a unit for cooling and a separate furnace for heating, the system has a heat pump set up that functions for both. It is very similar to an air conditioner only it reverses its operation when the weather turns cold. An air handler fitted with a blower motor takes the place of the furnace.
- Hybrid heat or ‘dual fuel’ systems are split systems that come with two sources of heat, which is perfect for the climates with frigid temperatures. In the moderate cold, the heat pump sources the heat, but once the temperatures drop, the unit automatically turns to the gas furnace, and the heat pump is ineffective. Go to https://freshome.com/heating-and-cooling/hvac-systems-understand-your-options/ for details on the various options.
The option requiring no duct work is the Ductless Split System.
Also referred to as a ductless mini-split system, it consists of an outside air conditioner used solely for cooling or a heat pump that offers both heating and cooling. Ductless split systems do not have furnaces as an option. The component on the inside carries a fan that dispenses the treated air. You have a choice of installation spots either on the ceiling, walls, or on the floor. One outdoor unit has the capability of providing treated air to as many as four indoor units with each of those offering regulation with a separate thermostat for climate control.
A large cabinet bearing all major components is a Packaged System.
A unit such as this has great popularity in houses that don’t have basements. The system is always installed outside. There is a blower forcing treated air into the living space and drawing the untreated air out and back into the unit. The way the air treats depends on the packaged system.
- Gas furnace with an air conditioner is the gas/electric packaged system.
- One unit that offers heat, as well as cooling, is the heat pump.
- Most of the heating and all cooling using a heat pump except when temperatures drop to below freezing and then a gas furnace for heating is the hybrid package system.
Using the earth to facilitate it is the Geothermal HVAC.
The stable temperatures of the planet are used with the Geothermal system to facilitate cooling and heating. Installation of pipes in the ground or water either collect or release heat using water containing refrigerant that circulates throughout. The consistency of the ground’s moderate temperature allows for efficient release of heat during the summer and collection of heat in the cold months. The main concern with this type of system is the expense to purchase, but the reduction in energy costs and use is massive.
Summary
Ultimately, if there is room in your budget, the geothermal system is ideal if you intend to stay in your home for the long term. The technology is reducing in cost, but it is still quite expensive as compared to the more traditional system or the ductless unit. But once installed, the savings and the efficiency are well worth it. Click to read how HVAC units operate.
Before you decide on which system is the best for you and your home, consult with an HVAC contractor. When a technician goes over the HVAC units with you, it will allow you to make an educated decision regarding one of the most critical components for your home.
