One of the most significant purchases you can make for your house is a heating and cooling system. According to Consumer Reports, residential air conditioning is now a standard feature in 90% of new homes in the United States. An efficient heating and cooling system will make your home a pleasant place to work, rest, and enjoy. But with so many types and brands available, it is not easy to decide which system will suit your needs. We have put together everything you need to know to help you choose a heating and cooling system for your home.
What Is a Heating and Cooling System?
Heating and cooling your home does not have to be a mystery. There are three basic elements to any system. These are a source of warmth or cool air, a way to circulate the heated or cooled air, and a temperature control. With a little understanding of how these pieces work together, you can keep your family comfortable all year long.
Types of Heating and Cooling Systems
HVAC systems are typically known by the names of some standard components. These are ductless residential AC units, boilers, central air conditioners, heat pumps, and furnaces. However, each system is different. Each depends on a home’s location, age, existing ductwork, heating and cooling requirements, and other considerations.
- Split system – Most systems are “split” between two primary units or systems (inside the home and one outside). Your location primarily determines the optimal configuration. For example, the furnace and heat pump combination work best in freezing climates.
- Hybrid system – More advanced form of the split system, it comes with a hybrid electric heating system that works in conjunction with a furnace. It improves energy efficiency by using a heat pump instead of a furnace to heat the home in milder times of the year.
- Ductless system – Includes an outdoor unit that contains the compressor and condenser. It also has an indoor air handler mounted in the room that blows the cooled air directly into the room. This type is ideal for homes without ductwork. It also works for small spaces that do not need a standard split system, such as garages and workshops.
- Packaged system – Provides residential heating and cooling in one unit. This type is typically installed outside. It works best for homes without basements or space for a heating unit inside. Furthermore, this type is also quieter (as everything is installed outside) and has lower installation costs (there is only one unit to install).
Heating and Cooling Energy Star Ratings
- Average Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) – The industry standard for determining the efficiency of oil- and gas-fired furnaces. A high rate indicates that the heating system is more efficient (the most efficient having a 98.5% efficiency rating). So, choose a furnace with a minimum AFUE rating of 78%.
- Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) – This rating determines how efficient heat pumps and air conditioners are. A higher rating means the system consumes less energy. Therefore, the most efficient brands receive a score of 22+.
- Average Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) – The industry standard for determining the efficiency of oil- and gas-fired furnaces. A high rate indicates that the heating system is more efficient (the most efficient having a 98.5% efficiency rating). So, choose a furnace with a minimum AFUE rating of 78%.
- Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF) – Measures heat pump energy efficiency. A higher HSPF rating means your heat pump consumes less energy. That makes it more energy-efficient. Remember, heat pumps with a rating of 13+ are the most efficient.
Heating and Cooling Near Me
Are you in the market for a new heating and cooling system but do not know where to begin? Then Pioneers Heating and Air can assist you! As one of the premier HVAC service providers in South Pasadena and the entire San Gabriel Valley, we commit to providing you with the best HVAC solutions for homes. We repair heating and cooling systems, install new ones, and provide more energy-efficient, quieter residential HVAC systems. Call us today, and we will sit down with you to figure out the best option for your needs and budget.
