HVAC System
Faced with getting a new HVAC system installed? Have you asked your friends or coworkers about how their last HVAC installation went? Were you met with glazed eyes and stammers? But choosing the right HVAC system need not be as traumatic as all that. It starts with understanding your property, finances, and needs. Next, you will want to match that up with an HVAC system installation that meets those needs. Here are the areas that you should look into:
1. Calculate Load and Size
Many of the problems that HVAC systems run into is due to load bearing issues. This means that the unit chosen is too small to cool or heat the square footage of the house it was installed in. But there are other considerations outside of property size that play into your HVAC system choice. Does your house get a lot of sun? How many windows and doors are on your property? How is your house or building constructed? All of these elements play into how large your unit needs to be in order to bear the heating and cooling load of your house. And guess what? Having a system that has too much capacity for your house size is also just as bad as having one with not enough. When a system is oversized for the house, this causes the HVAC units to turn on and off at too quick a pace, which also wears down the system. Often, your HVAC contractor will be the one to make these calculations, or your local utility may offer these services.
2. Estimate What Fits In Your Budget
Think about how much you can afford to spend on your HVAC system. The latest systems include smart thermostats which are on the pricier side to install, but promise long-term savings. Some savings run to a 10 to 15 percent cut of your utility bill. Higher efficiency systems are generally more expensive but your bills should be lower in the long run. When considering your purchase, think of all the ramifications of your decision, and not only the initial price point. A good-quality system may be pricier to begin with, but you could end up saving when compared to the maintenance required of a cheaper system.
3. Understand where You Can Save
Getting new ducts installed for AC systems can run from $4,000 to $5,000. However, not all AC units require duct installation. In some cases, old duct systems can be used. But you will want to check that your current duct system will not leak cooled or heated air. If your ducts are in poor shape, you could consider an AC blower unit, instead of duct cooling. AC blower units require one per each room of the house. Blower units are not visually appealing, but cost up to 30 percent less than a central AC system. Other ways you can save include purchasing during the off season. As HVAC installations are more expensive during the summer and less so during the winter.
4. Do Your Research
There are multiple aspects of research to be done when choosing an HVAC system. You will want to find out if your state has an energy incentive program. And how the system you are considering fares according to state efficiency standards. Researching reliable contractors is another essential step. Often at the root of horror stories are a tale of poor installation or shoddy maintenance. So choosing a well-rated contractor with good reviews from past clients is vital.
Your HVAC system is not only a major investment into your house. But also an emotional investment, too. A promise of pleasant days spent in your abode. A well-running HVAC system is something most of us do not appreciate until it breaks down and requires maintenance. Learn from others’ experiences and choose something that will hold up well and for years to come.
Featured Image Source
