Replacing Your AC? Here Are Your Options
You often do not understand how important an HVAC system is until one dies. When you have lost your air conditioner or if your furnace is not working properly, you might think that now is the time to have your unit replaced with something new. You will need to know the differences between the various HVAC systems in order to find the right one.
Split Systems
The most classic HVAC system is the split system. Components of the HVAC system will be found both inside and outside of the building. A cooling-only system will only remove heat and dehumidify the air.
Packaged Systems
A cooling-only packaged system only has one unit that is placed outside. Then, the cooled air is ducted into the home. The reason the unit must be placed outside is that air conditioning units are used specifically to move heat outside.
Heat Pumps
A heat pump can be used both for heating and cooling. During the winter, the heat pump extracts heat from outside and brings it into the home. During the summer, the unit takes hot air and transfers it outside to cool the home.
Hybrid Systems
Besides relying on a heat pump, you may also use a hybrid system. This not only comes with the heat pump, but also allows you to heat your home using a gas furnace. Using the gas furnace will increase the efficiency of the unit and it is useful for colder climates.
Chilled Water
A chilled water system uses water instead of a refrigerant. Cool water is pumped through the walls of the home. As an alternative, heated water can be used during the winter to help warm the home.
Window AC
Window air conditioners are placed in a window. This is a self-contained unit in which the heat is expelled out of one end and the chilled air is released into the home. This is only effective for cooling small homes and some areas may never be adequately cooled.
Single Or Multi-Stage
HVAC systems come in single or multi-stage. If the unit operates in single-stage, this means that it will heat or cool at the maximum capacity. This can lead to your heating or HVAC system using more energy than necessary. Therefore, it may make sense to instead use a multi-stage HVAC system.
Zoned Systems
One of the annoyances of HVAC systems is that they only warm or cool one area of your home. Using a zoned HVAC system will allow your entire home to remain comfortable and will also ensure that not too much energy is used.
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