Your HVAC system is an important utility. We count on our heating cooling to keep our homes comfortable all year-round. It can also be a big part of your monthly energy bills. Spending time to understand more about your HVAC system offers a lot of benefits. You can boost its efficiency and determine the right replacement equipment. We’ll share the key facts about the most common HVAC systems. After, we’ll go over how to choose the best HVAC system in South Beloit and Belvidere.
What Is HVAC?
HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning. This utility system keeps indoor temperatures comfortable. It also manages air quality through filtration and humidity control equipment. Collectively, these systems work together to keep our homes cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Your standard HVAC system will have three primary components: heating, cooling and ventilation. Some places won’t always have both heating and cooling, like temperate climates or in older homes.
Most HVAC systems work by circulating air in and out of your home. Based on the type of system, heat may be added or removed to adjust the indoor temperature. Air ducts can bring the air to every room of the house, but they’re not always necessary. Many HVAC accessories including air filtration equipment are mounted inside the ductwork for the highest possible efficiency.
There Are Different Types of HVAC Systems
HVAC technology has come a long way in terms of overall design and efficiency. Homeowners have more options than ever when selecting an HVAC system. There are several different styles, with one or more being the ideal combination for your comfort needs. These range from popular air conditioners and furnaces to alternatives such as the heat pump.
Air Conditioners
An air conditioner is a groundbreaking piece of technology that draws heat out of the air using a special substance called refrigerant or coolant. Unwanted heat and moisture are pumped out of the air and ventilated outdoors. This is extremely efficient for staying cool throughout the sweltering summer months.
Furnaces
The dependable central furnace has been the most popular way to heat your home for many years. It frequently runs on natural gas or oil, combusting the fuel to produce heat. This heat warms the air that circulates through your home while vapors are properly ventilated away. Furnaces use a pilot light or electronic hot surface ignition system to start a heating cycle.
Mini-Splits
Some HVAC systems don’t use central ductwork to deliver heating and cooling. A ductless mini-split system is one such type of equipment. An indoor and outdoor unit are instead linked by copper piping that delivers climate control. You can set up multiple indoor units to heat or cool your home. Some models offer air conditioning while some can handle both heating and cooling.
Heat Pumps
Heat pumps are an increasingly popular option for heating and cooling your home. In contrast to central furnaces and air conditioners, heat pumps don’t create their own source of climate control. Instead, they pump heat in or out of your home using air circulation. Reduced energy use can help you save on your monthly bill. Heat pumps are ideal for milder climates and can even be installed alongside other equipment.
Garage Heaters
This compact kind of HVAC system is used to keep garages warm in the colder months. Most garages are unfinished, so they can be particularly chilly to spend time in. Garage heaters use fuel like electricity, natural gas or propane to generate heat. This heat is distributed with power fans. The garage heaters themselves are often configured to be portable. They can be carried around the garage freely or fitted to the wall. Some models are even mounted to the ceiling.
How Do I Choose an HVAC System?
When choosing a new HVAC system, there are a few things to think about. You should find a balance between efficiency and your specific comfort preferences. You can narrow down possible options with the following tips:
Find the right size for your home: Bigger isn’t always better. In fact, a furnace that’s too powerful for your home can end up costing you in larger energy bills. New HVAC systems should be the appropriate size for maximum effectiveness.
Prioritize energy efficiency for long-term savings: Higher energy efficiency is one of the best ways to earn back more savings. Energy-efficient equipment puts less strain on key components and doesn’t need to work as long for climate control. Seek out models marked with the ENERGY STAR® rating for particularly efficient models.
Explore financing options and special offers: Lots of local service companies extend special financing for new installation. You may receive special offers for the system itself as well as other perks like discounts on preventive maintenance plans.
Entrust new installation to trained professionals: A new HVAC system is a great investment. You can get the most out of a new air conditioner or heat pump with seasoned technicians. They perform air conditioning installation quickly and efficiently, ensuring you enjoy maximum benefit from the beginning.
Your local expert technicians can evaluate your home and recommend the ideal HVAC system for you. If you’d like to start the process, give Fleming Heating & Air Conditioning Inc a call at 877-389-2465 today.