Choosing an HVAC System

United Air Conditioning of Central Florida, Inc.

How To Choose an Air Conditioning and Heating System (HVAC)

• What to consider - Choosing your HVAC system may seem to be a daunting task. There's a wide variety of choices, and even with the help of a reputable contractor, you may have to do some research to find the system that is right for you. If you have a contractor you trust (United Air Conditioning of Central Florida, Inc., for instance), it is a good idea to ask them what system choice or choices they recommend. If not, you may have to make this decision for yourself before you call for estimates. Selecting the proper equipment is crucial to keep yourself and your family comfortable for years to come and would also help save you money on energy costs and repairs.
  
• Choose high efficiency - One of the most important things to consider when purchasing a unit is its efficiency. The higher the efficiency of the unit, the more it will cost you in the beginning but an investment in a higher efficiency system will give you an ROI many times over in the form of cost savings over the course of the equipment's lifespan. Air conditioner efficiency is rated in SEER or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. SEER ratings tell you how much cooling you get back for a unit of electricity. So, the higher the number, the more you get for your money. Before 1992, most units manufactured were at 6.0 SEER rating. Today, the lowest efficiency unit you can buy is 12.0, and high-efficiency units start at 13.0. If you have replaced a unit, which was rated at 6.0 with a 12.0, you would save half of the electricity cost to run the unit. Two-speed units can run at low speeds 80% of the time, which allows them to get ratings as high as 16.0+ SEER.
  
• Consider the noise level - Another important factor to consider when buying a unit is its noise level. If your unit has a low sound level, you will hardly notice it running. On the other hand, high levels may mean many sleepless nights and annoyed neighbors. Air conditioning and heating equipment are rated by a sound rating number or SRN which is based on American Refrigeration Institute tests and ranges from 6.8 bels, which is the quietest, to 13 bels, which is the loudest. Most air conditioners operate at 7 to 9 bels. It doesn’t sound like much but a unit operating at 9 bels is actually 10 times louder than a unit operating at 8 bels.
  
• Don’t forget the ductwork - While you are replacing your system, consider having your ductwork checked to see if it needs any repairs or needs to be replaced. If some rooms in your home are too hot or too cold, if the insulation on your ductwork is peeling off, or if there is a buildup of contaminants inside, consider having your ducts evaluated to see if they need a replacement. Also, the return air grilles and grilles in every room should be evaluated to see if they are properly sized and working correctly. Grilles can be purchased online or from a reputable contractor (Like United Air Conditioning of Central Florida, Inc.).
  
• Consider a programmable thermostat - If your house is empty for a part of the day, consider investing in a programmable thermostat. This will allow you to set your unit to a higher temperature while you are gone and then have it drop back to a comfortable level thirty minutes before you get home. Some people also like to set a different temperature when they are asleep as opposed to their waking hours. Most thermostats can be set for a particular day of the week. So, you can bypass your program or change it on days when you are home.
  
• Consider your comfort - There are other add-ons to your system that you might consider for increasing your comfort level and helping your system to keep you healthier. Air cleaners are great for those with allergies and will help keep your house cleaner. These range from simple electrostatic filters to more expensive electronic air cleaners and ultraviolet filters. Humidifiers can help with dry skin, sore throats, breathing problems, cracking wood, and static electricity. Thermidistats are like traditional thermostats, but they additionally monitor and control humidity. Zoning systems divide your home into several separate zones or areas with similar comfort needs with separate thermostats and dampers that automatically adjust the temperature in those zones. This allows you to cool only the area where you need it. This way, you save money. Also, you can allow different people in the same home to adjust their comfort level to suit their needs and preferences.
  
• Consider your unique needs - Since everybody’s home is unique, you will want to seek help from a reputable contractor like United Air Conditioning of Central Florida, Inc. to sort through the options. A good contractor will be able to help you balance your budget considerations, utilities available, your needs for comfort, logistical considerations, the climate in your area, and other factors.

Contact us today if you need any further assistance.