When the time comes to purchase a new HVAC system for your home, it’s best to speak to the architect or designer if you can reach them. They know details about the home that may be of benefit when you choose which system to buy.
You will also need to speak to HVAC contractors to learn about available options. In certain situations, a heating engineer may be of benefit. Reach out to this professional when installing an HVAC system if the home has unique demands that previous HVAC systems could not meet.
Conduct a Needs Assessment
As these conversations take place, determine exactly what your needs are when it comes to this system. Men and women on a tight budget should make a list of all the features they want and prioritize them. For example, radiant floor heating might be desired. Once this list is in place, the HVAC contractors can help you find a system that can meet your essential needs and possibly have some, if not all, of the desired features.
When conducting this assessment, consider other systems that might work in conjunction with the HVAC system. For instance, you might want to add a filtration system to the home. The HVAC contractor can provide an estimate for this system. Other homeowners might wish to extend the existing HVAC system and the contractor can provide an estimate for this, as well.
Temperature Considerations
Most experts only recommend the installation of central air conditioning if local temperatures regularly rise above 85 degrees Fahrenheit. If they don’t cross this threshold routinely, room air conditioners or other cooling devices should suffice. Nevertheless, many homeowners opt for central air conditioning automatically, as they know it will help them sell the home when they choose to move. Individuals with asthma and allergies need a home with central air, as they benefit from the system’s filtering of particulates in the air.
Unit Size
Ensure the selected unit is properly sized for the home. If the HVAC system is too big for the house, it will cycle frequently. This not only raises your energy costs but also puts stress on the system. This stress could lead to repeated mechanical failures.
Ask the HVAC contractor to walk you through the heat load calculation. They will use a mathematical formula that takes into consideration the home’s size, the local climate, any insulation present in the building, the number of windows, and more. Once the heating load has been determined, the selected system should have a capacity that is less than 25 percent greater than this figure.
Opt for Fewer Features
To keep the cost of the HVAC system down, opt for fewer features. Another option is to consider expanding on the existing system if it is still functional. The expansion can help heat and cool areas of the home not being serviced without the need for a completely new system.
Warranty Considerations
While buying a system with a short warranty will save money in the short run, owners usually find they end up spending more over the life of the system. Look for a system with a long warranty. The manufacturer will stand behind its product, as mechanical failures may be their responsibility. Most furnaces come with a 20-year warranty, and most boilers feature a 30-year warranty. Heat pump warranties vary, but the warranty on these devices is typically much shorter than seen with other HVAC units.
Work with a local HVAC contractor to find the right system for your needs. A local provider will be available if help is needed once the installation is complete. You will quickly come to appreciate having their help in the future.
