Use our Best HVAC System Guide to Find the Best Heating and Air Solutions for Your Home or Business.

Your Guide to Choosing the Best HVAC Brands and Units

HIGHLIGHTS

AC Unit Selection Checklist

How To Prevent Mold

Ensuring The Best Air Quality

Keys To Choosing The Best HVAC System

Hidden Factors To Consider

A Comprehensive Guide on How To Choose The Best HVAC System

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Choosing the Right HVAC System Part 1:

Things to Consider When Choosing an HVAC System

Selecting the right HVAC system for your home or business is crucial for maintaining a comfortable and energy-efficient indoor environment. With a wide range of options available, including central air conditioners, heat pumps, furnaces, and ductless mini-splits, navigating the world of HVAC systems can be overwhelming. However, by understanding your specific needs, considering energy efficiency, and working with a reliable HVAC contractor, you can find the best type of system for your home or space.

In today’s rapidly evolving world, where sustainability and comfort are top priorities, HVAC systems play a vital role in regulating temperature and ensuring optimal indoor air quality. These systems are indispensable components of residential, commercial, and industrial spaces, making them essential for maintaining a comfortable and healthy indoor environment.

Whether you’re starting a new building project, making home improvements, or simply looking to improve the performance of your current heating and cooling system, it’s crucial to avoid common mistakes when buying. Overlooking factors such as the size of your home, your climate, and your budget can lead to inefficient and costly HVAC systems that fail to meet your needs.

Common Mistakes Made When Choosing the Best HVAC System

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore information about HVAC systems such as the different types, the importance of energy efficiency, and valuable tips on proper installation and ongoing maintenance. We’ll also highlight the most common mistakes to avoid when buying an HVAC system, such as:

• Failing to properly assess the size of your home or space
• Neglecting to consider your climate and insulation needs
• Choosing a system with low energy efficiency ratings (SEER)
• Attempting DIY installation instead of hiring a licensed HVAC technician
• Overlooking the importance of regular maintenance and filter changes

By following these guidelines and working with a professional HVAC contractor, you can reach the goal of selecting an efficient and reliable HVAC solution, ensuring that your entire system provides optimal comfort and indoor air quality in every season throughout your home or business.

Heating and Air Cooling Systems – Common Pitfalls

Of the common mistakes mentioned above, buying an incorrectly sized HVAC system can be the most detrimental, as it can lead to several serious consequences.

Oversized Heating and Cooling System Issues

HVAC System Short-Cycling

If the heating or cooling system is too large for the home, it will cool or heat the space too quickly, then shut off. Because it runs for such a brief period, it doesn’t effectively remove humidity or achieve a uniform temperature distribution throughout the space. This leads to frequent on and off cycles, or “short cycling.” This, in turn,  results in increased wear and tear on the equipment, higher energy bills, and reduced comfort due to uneven temperatures. This also reduces the system’s ability to properly dehumidify the air, making the home feel clammy and uncomfortable.

Compounded Inefficiencies

An oversized system will also lead to wider temperature swings, especially in perimeter rooms. The excess cooling or heating produced by an oversized system leads to uneven distribution and fluctuating temperatures, leading to a compounding inefficiency effect as people often use additional portable heating and cooling devices to compensate for their poorly designed system.

Undersized HVAC System Issues

Inability to Reach Desired Temperature

A solution too small for heating and cooling your home may struggle to meet the thermostat setting, especially on very hot or cold days. Some rooms may feel hotter or colder than others. A properly sized HVAC system should be able to reliably maintain the air quality and comfort of your indoor spaces with the utmost efficiency.

Inconsistent Temperatures

With an undersized system, some rooms may be too warm while others are comfortable, leading to fluctuating temperatures throughout the home or building.

Excessive Humidity

If the capacity to properly dehumidify the air is not possible due to undersizing, the indoor environment will feel muggy and damp, even if the temperature seems right.

Constant Running

If undersized, the HVAC system must work harder. It will run continuously without cycling off, never reaching the thermostat set point. This wastes energy and shortens the system’s lifespan. To determine if an HVAC system is properly sized, a professional should perform a load calculation taking into account the square footage, insulation, windows, and climate. Choosing the right size system is crucial for comfort, durability, and the efficiency of your HVAC system.

Additional Effects of Failing to Choose the Right HVAC System

Lack of Home Comfort and Air Quality Issues

Oversizing will lead to wider temperature swings, especially in perimeter rooms. Short-cycling also reduces the system’s ability to properly dehumidify the air, making the home feel clammy and uncomfortable. Undersized systems may struggle to maintain a consistent temperature, leaving some rooms too hot or cold.

High Energy Bills Impacting Total System Cost

An undersized HVAC system has to work harder to try and meet the cooling or heating demand as it attempts to maintain the temperature of the air throughout your home, thereby using far more energy than necessary. This can lead to unusually high utility bills. Conversely, an oversized system will cycle on and off frequently, also wasting energy.

Reduced Equipment Lifespan

The excessive wear and tear caused by short-cycling or overworking can significantly reduce equipment lifespan. This means more frequent and costly repairs or replacements down the line.

Safety and Indoor Air Quality Issues

Improper installation of a furnace can lead to dangerous situations, such as carbon monoxide buildup due to venting issues or fire hazards from faulty wiring. Poor drainage designs can also cause water damage and mold growth, negatively impacting indoor air quality. To avoid these consequences, it’s crucial to have a professional HVAC contractor perform a thorough load calculation to determine a solution that is best for your home and budget. This analysis will take into account factors like square footage, insulation, and climate. Choosing an energy-efficient model and ensuring proper installation by a licensed technician are also key to getting the best performance and value from your HVAC system.

Choosing the Right HVAC System Part 2:

Identifying Your Needs

Assessing the Size of the Space You Need to Heat and Cool

Determining the size of your home or building is a crucial first step in selecting the right HVAC system. The square footage and number of rooms directly impact the heating and cooling load, which determines the necessary BTU capacity.

Measuring Room Dimensions

To calculate the square footage of each room, measure the length and width in feet, then multiply them together. For example, if a room measures 10 feet by 12 feet, the square footage would be 120 square feet (10 x 12 = 120).

Calculating Total Square Footage

Add up the square footage of all rooms and common areas to get the total square footage of the home or building. Don’t forget to include spaces like hallways, closets, and finished basements or attics.

Considering Ceiling Height and Stories

The number of stories and ceiling height also affect the load calculation. Homes with higher ceilings or multiple stories will require more BTUs to heat and cool. Measure the ceiling height in each room and note the number of floors to provide this information to your HVAC contractor.

Consulting with Professional HVAC Companies

For the most accurate square footage assessment, consult with a licensed HVAC contractor. They can perform an on-site evaluation and provide a precise calculation of your home’s total square footage and heating/cooling load. By accurately determining the size of your home or building, they can help you choose the best solution and ensure that your new HVAC system is properly sized to provide efficient and effective heating and cooling. This is a crucial first step in selecting the right system for your needs and budget.

Considering Your Climate and Insulation Needs

Your local climate plays a significant role in proper sizing. Homes in hot, humid climates require more cooling capacity than those in milder regions. The quality and amount of insulation in walls, attics, and crawl spaces impact the heating and cooling load as well.

Evaluating Your Climate

Consider the typical temperatures and humidity levels in your area throughout the year. Extreme heat can push systems beyond their optimal operating conditions, causing efficiency to drop.

Higher humidity levels require air conditioners to expend more energy to dehumidify the air, further reducing cooling efficiency.

As temperatures rise, the cooling load increases, putting additional strain on HVAC systems and leading to reduced efficiency and higher energy costs.

Assessing Insulation Levels

The amount and type of insulation installed in your home walls, attic, and crawl spaces affect heat transfer and, consequently, your HVAC load. Homes with inadequate insulation will require larger types of HVAC units to maintain comfort. Have an insulation contractor or HVAC professional evaluate your home’s insulation levels and recommend improvements if needed.

Insulation Materials and R-Values

The R-value of insulation measures its ability to resist heat transfer. Higher R-values indicate better insulation and greater energy efficiency.

Choosing the right insulation materials for HVAC applications, such as fiberglass, foam board, or mineral wool, can significantly improve thermal performance and reduce energy consumption.

Identifying Air Leaks

Air leaks around windows, doors, and other openings can significantly impact HVAC efficiency. Hire a professional to conduct a blower door test, which measures air infiltration and identifies problem areas. Sealing air leaks with caulk or weatherstripping can reduce HVAC loads and improve comfort.

Considering Window Characteristics

Aside from air leaks, window type is another important factor in properly identifying HVAC type and sizing. The size, orientation, and type of windows (single vs double-pane) affect heat gain and loss. South and west-facing windows allow more solar heat in during the day, increasing cooling needs. Energy-efficient windows with low-E coatings can reduce heat transfer and lower HVAC loads. By carefully considering your climate and insulation needs, you can ensure that your new HVAC system is properly sized and configured to provide optimal comfort and efficiency.

By carefully considering the climate and investing in proper insulation, homeowners and building owners can ensure that their HVAC systems operate at peak efficiency, reducing energy costs and environmental impact. Consulting with a professional HVAC contractor is the best way to evaluate these factors and make informed decisions about insulation and system requirements.

Pulling it All Together – Calculating Your HVAC System Requirements

Once you have the square footage, insulation, and climate details, you can estimate the BTU capacity needed for heating and cooling. As a general guideline, homes require about 25 BTUs per square foot. However, this is just a rough estimate and doesn’t account for other important factors.

Determining What Size HVAC System is Best for Your Calculated Needs

Choosing the correct HVAC size is critical for comfort, efficiency, and system longevity. As mentioned earlier, an oversized system will short-cycle, wasting energy and failing to properly dehumidify. An undersized system will struggle to maintain the desired temperature, leading to higher bills and wear and tear.

Consulting with Professional HVAC Companies

Working with a professional to assess your home’s unique needs is the best way to select the ideal HVAC system. A licensed HVAC contractor can perform a Manual J load calculation which is a comprehensive assessment that considers all the relevant factors you’ve uncovered in your analysis, including insulation, windows, occupancy, and climate. This is the most accurate way to determine the right sized solution for your needs and enables them to recommend the most appropriate system size and type for your home. By accurately determining your heating and cooling requirements, you can ensure that your new HVAC system is properly sized and configured to provide optimal comfort and efficiency.

Choosing the Right HVAC System Part 3:

Types of HVAC Systems, Ratings, and Specifications

There are several types of HVAC solutions in use today. Here is a short list of the most common.

HVAC Central Air Conditioner and Furnace

A traditional residential HVAC system, commonly known as a central air conditioning and heating system, typically consists of several key components that work together to heat, cool, and ventilate a home. Some

HVAC Split Systems

A traditional HVAC Split System consists of two main components: an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. These units work together to regulate temperature and humidity levels within a designated space. The indoor unit, typically located inside the house, contains the evaporator coil responsible for cooling or heating the air. Meanwhile, the outdoor unit houses the compressor and condenser coil, which facilitate the heat exchange process.

These units are primarily known for cool air conditioning only, however, in regions that require heat they will often include a furnace. In this configuration these split systems are identical to central heating and air conditioning systems and the two terms can be considered interchangeable. They are sometimes also referred to as a hybrid electric heater system with an air conditioner for cooling.

HVAC split systems provide a reliable and efficient solution for home climate control, offering both cooling and heating capabilities in a single system. With their energy efficiency and quiet operation, split systems have become a popular choice for homeowners seeking comfort and convenience.

HVAC Hybrid Heating and Cooling Systems

True Hybrid HVAC Systems, often called a dual-fuel system, combine two or more types of heating and cooling technologies, such as an electric heat pump with a gas furnace or boiler, to optimize energy efficiency and comfort. These systems automatically switch between heating sources based on outdoor temperatures and energy costs, providing the most cost-effective heating solution at any given time.

Mini-Split Ductless Systems

Ductless mini-split HVAC systems are a variant of the traditional split system. These have seen significant growth in popularity over the past 25 years, especially in retrofit applications, room additions, and homes without existing ductwork. These systems offer individualized temperature control for each zone, energy-efficient operation, and easy installation without the need for ductwork.

HVAC Packaged Heating and Air Systems

A packaged system in HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) is a single, integrated unit typically installed outdoors, either on the roof or on a concrete slab near the building’s foundation. Combining all the components needed for heating and cooling a building, often including ventilation as well, these systems are commonly found in both residential and commercial buildings, and they differ from split systems where the components are divided between indoor and outdoor units.

System Details to Consider When Choosing the Best HVAC Brand

Now that we’ve looked at the details of the environment you’ll be heating or cooling, and did a quick run through on HVAC system types, we can move into understanding the various aspects we need to pay attention to with the HVAC system itself. While there are a handful of system types and configurations, they all have common specifications and details.

Carefully weighing several important variables is necessary to guarantee peak performance, energy economy, and long-term dependability. Making well-informed decisions that satisfy your specific requirements requires an awareness of these important factors, which range from technical specifications and economic concerns to environmental effects and the accessibility of local service providers.

Before digging in we need to cover some terms and concepts integral to understanding heating and cooling specifications, ratings, and environmental impact.

Energy Efficiency Ratings:

BTUs

BTU stands for British Thermal Unit. It is a unit of energy used in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) industry to measure the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit at a constant pressure of one atmosphere. In relation to heating and cooling systems, BTUs are used as a way to quantify the capacity of HVAC equipment.

• Heating Systems: In heating, BTUs measure the amount of heat output that a heating system can produce. For example, a furnace with a higher BTU rating can produce more heat and is suitable for a larger space.
• Cooling Systems: In cooling, BTUs measure the amount of heat that an AC system can remove from a room or home in one hour. This is also referred to as the cooling capacity of the AC unit.

When selecting HVAC equipment, it is crucial to choose a system with an appropriate BTU capacity based on the size of the space that needs heating or cooling. A system that is too large or too small can lead to inefficiencies, increased energy costs, and uneven temperatures. Generally, it is recommended that an HVAC professional perform a detailed calculation to determine the optimal BTU capacity required for a specific space, taking into account factors like room size, climate, insulation levels, window size, and occupancy.

SEER

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. It is a metric represented by a number used to measure the efficiency of air conditioning and heat pump cooling systems. SEER numbers indicate the relative amount of electricity required to provide a specific cooling output. Much like miles per gallon in a car, the SEER rating tells you how much cooling a system puts out for each unit of energy it consumes.

How SEER is Calculated:

• The SEER rating is calculated by dividing the cooling output of the AC system (in British Thermal Units, or BTUs) over a typical cooling season by the total electric energy input (in watt-hours) during the same period.

Understanding SEER Ratings:

• Higher SEER Numbers: A higher SEER number means greater efficiency. Modern air conditioning units typically have SEER numbers ranging from 13 to 25+. Older systems might have a SEER number of 6 or lower.
• Cost Implications: Generally, systems with higher SEER numbers are more expensive upfront but can provide significant cost savings in the long run due to lower energy costs.
• Minimum SEER Ratings: Different regions may have different minimum SEER numbers due to the varying climate demands. For example, as of 2023, in the United States, the minimum SEER number for new AC units ranges from 14 to 15, depending on the region.

Why SEER Matters:

• Energy Efficiency: Systems with high SEER numbers indicate more efficient use of electricity, which can lead to lower electricity bills, especially in regions with harsh summers and extensive cooling system use.
• Environmental Impact: Efficient AC units reduce peak load demand on power grids and can help reduce emissions associated with electricity production, especially in areas where non-renewable energy sources predominate.
• Comfort and Value: Investing in a high-SEER system not only ensures better cooling performance but can also increase the resale value of a home and improve indoor comfort with better system controls and features.

SEER and Heat Pumps:

• For heat pumps, SEER numbers measure efficiency in the cooling mode. Heat pumps also have HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor) ratings to measure their efficiency in heating mode.

When selecting a cooling system or heat pump, it’s important to consider both the SEER number and other factors such as the size of your home, your local climate, and the overall system cost. Often, consulting with a professional HVAC contractor can help determine the most appropriate system for your needs.

AFUE

AFUE stands for Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency. It is a measure used to rate the efficiency of heating equipment, particularly furnaces and boilers. The AFUE rating is expressed as a percentage and indicates how efficiently a heating unit converts fuel into heat over a typical year. Essentially, it measures the amount of heat produced for every dollar of fuel consumed.

How AFUE Works:

• 100% AFUE: This would mean that all the energy from the fuel is being converted directly into heat. However, this level of efficiency is not practically achievable due to energy losses such as exhaust and radiation.
• High vs. Low AFUE: An AFUE of 90% means that 90% of the energy in the fuel becomes heat for the home and the other 10% escapes up the chimney or elsewhere. Older, less efficient systems can have AFUE values as low as 50-60%, meaning that nearly half of the energy is wasted. Modern, high-efficiency systems can achieve AFUE ratings above 90%, with some reaching up to 98.5%.

Importance of AFUE in Heating and Cooling:

• Cost-Effectiveness: The higher the AFUE rating, the more efficient the heating system is, which generally translates into lower fuel costs. Homeowners investing in high AFUE-rated systems may see a reduction in their heating bills over time.
• Environmental Impact: Higher efficiency ratings also mean fewer emissions since less fuel is wasted. Thus, systems with a higher AFUE are generally better for the environment.
• Regulations and Standards: In many places, there are minimum AFUE requirements for new installations to ensure energy conservation.

Selecting a Heating Solution: When choosing a new furnace or boiler, the AFUE rating is an important factor to consider alongside other factors such as the type of fuel used (natural gas, oil, electricity), the size and layout of the home, and local climate conditions. Systems with higher AFUE ratings may cost more upfront but can provide savings in the long term through reduced energy usage.

In summary, AFUE is a critical indicator of a heating efficiency and plays a significant role in the decision-making process for purchasing new heating equipment. It does not, however, apply to cooling systems, which are typically evaluated based on different metrics like SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) for air cooling systems.

HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor):

HSPF is specific to heat pumps and measures their efficiency over an entire heating season. Like SEER, a higher HSPF rating signifies greater energy efficiency and cost savings.

ENERGY STAR Certification:

The Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) stringent energy efficiency standards are met by HVAC units with the ENERGY STAR certification. Choosing ENERGY STAR-certified products ensures superior energy efficiency, reduced energy consumption, and utility rebates or incentives eligibility.

Environmental Impact:

Reduced Energy Consumption:

Energy-efficient HVAC units consume less energy to provide the same level of heating or cooling, resulting in reduced demand for electricity or fossil fuels. These units help mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change by lowering energy consumption.

Use of Eco-Friendly Refrigerants:

Many modern HVAC units utilize environmentally friendly refrigerants with lower global warming potential (GWP) and ozone depletion potential (ODP) than traditional refrigerants such as R-22. Opting for units with eco-friendly refrigerants minimizes environmental harm and supports efforts to protect the ozone layer.

Advanced Technologies:

To maximize energy efficiency and lessen negative environmental effects, certain HVAC systems use cutting-edge technologies, including dual-stage heating and cooling, variable-speed compressors, and smart controls. These technologies enhance efficiency, improve comfort, and contribute to overall sustainability.

Life Cycle Analysis:

Consider the entire life cycle of an HVAC unit, including manufacturing, transportation, installation, operation, and disposal. Energy-efficient units with longer lifespans and minimal environmental impact throughout their life cycles offer superior sustainability benefits compared to less efficient alternatives.

By prioritizing energy efficiency ratings and considering environmental impact factors, you can select an HVAC unit that delivers optimal comfort and performance, reduces energy consumption, lowers operating costs, and minimizes environmental footprint for a more sustainable future.

Specifications and Sizing

When selecting the right HVAC unit, specifications and sizing are paramount considerations that can significantly impact the system’s performance, efficiency, and overall effectiveness in maintaining indoor comfort. Let’s delve deeper into these crucial aspects:

Heating and Cooling Capacity:

One of the primary specifications to consider is the heating and cooling capacity of the HVAC unit, measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units) or tons. This specification determines the system’s ability to heat or cool the space it serves adequately. Properly sizing the unit involves calculating the heating and cooling loads of the building, considering factors such as square footage, insulation, windows, occupancy, and climate conditions.

Of the different types of HVAC solutions available, the one you select must be capable of producing enough BTUs to efficiently meet the demands of the calculated requirements for your indoor space.

Airflow Requirements:

Another essential specification is the airflow capacity of the HVAC unit, which ensures proper ventilation and distribution of conditioned air throughout the space. Factors such as duct design, air filters, and fan speed play a role in determining the airflow capacity needed to maintain comfort levels and indoor air quality.

Energy Efficiency Ratings:

Keep a close eye on HVAC units’ energy efficiency ratings, such as the heating unit’s AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) and cooling unit’s SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio). In the course of your selection process, look for systems with high SEER and AFUE ratings as they indicate greater energy efficiency which equates to lowering energy consumption and operating costs. Energy-efficient units save money and reduce environmental impact by minimizing greenhouse gas emissions.

Compatibility with Building Infrastructure:

Consider the compatibility of the HVAC unit with existing building infrastructure, including ductwork, electrical systems, and control systems. Ensure that the unit’s specifications align with the requirements of your space and that any necessary modifications or upgrades can be accommodated seamlessly.

Noise Levels:

Evaluate the HVAC unit’s noise levels, especially if noise is a concern in residential or commercial settings. Choose models with lower decibel ratings or features such as variable-speed motors and sound-dampening technologies to minimize noise disruptions while maximizing comfort.

While many systems are suitable for homes and offices, system placement can be a critical component to managing noise levels. It’s important to note, however, that not every HVAC system offers seamless integration into your setting. From the wide range of HVAC solutions available, the right choice for your home or office will be unique to the unique specifications of your environment.

As an example, ductless mini-split units are great for zone control and new additions, but some of the mechanical components of that solution will be physically present in the space occupied. These units will produce a certain noise level in that space during operation. The little nuances like this are the things that must be considered in the quest to find an HVAC system that will not only meet your needs, but bring you many seasons of great comfort and reliable performance.