Whether you are planning to install a new air conditioning system in your home or office, there are some things you should know about it. Among these are the size of the system, its efficiency rating and the condition of the ductwork.
1. Cost factor plays a major role
Whether you are looking to purchase a new HVAC system or you are considering retrofitting an existing building, cost is an important consideration. However, there are several factors that affect your HVAC system costs.
The cost of your HVAC system will depend on the size of the unit. The more units you have, the more expensive they will be. Depending on the type of business you run, the type of equipment you purchase will also impact your costs. The quality of the HVAC system is also important. Low quality HVAC systems can end up being an energy hog, reducing the energy efficiency of your HVAC system. Ensure that you get only the best equipment from Headwaters Heating and Cooling.
2. Size of the system
Getting the right size HVAC system is a key to indoor comfort and energy savings. Using the right unit for your home will also help ensure optimal air quality and less noise. A properly sized system will also keep your utility bill from skyrocketing.
To determine the right size, consider the size of your home. The square footage of your home is a key factor in calculating the right size. You’ll also want to take into account your local climate. If you live in a hot climate, you may need a larger air conditioner than you would if you lived in a cooler climate.
The proper sizing also includes humidity control. This is important since too much energy can create humidity problems. It can also wear out your HVAC system more quickly.
3. Ductwork condition
Whether you are installing a new heating, cooling, or ventilation system, you should consider the condition of your ductwork. Poorly installed ducts will not only reduce the performance of your system, they may also cause airflow issues and lead to higher energy bills.
If you have ductwork that has been in your home for more than 15 years, it may be time for a replacement. The average home loses 20-40% of the air it should be receiving from its HVAC system due to leaks, holes, and bad connections. If you suspect that your ducts are in need of repair, call a professional to inspect them.
Leaky ducts allow debris, dust, and other particles to enter your home. Leaking ducts can also make your home less comfortable. They also decrease the lifespan of your HVAC system.
4. Efficiency rating
Choosing an energy efficient HVAC system can save you hundreds of dollars in annual cooling and heating costs. However, choosing the wrong size system can also make your home uncomfortable.
The Department of Energy (DOE) recommends maintaining your HVAC system to make sure it is in good working order. The Energy Star program gives you credible information on the efficiency of products. You can see the blue “Energy Star” label on approved products.
The energy efficiency ratio (EER) is a better way to judge a cooling system’s performance. It is calculated by dividing the output cooling energy by the input electrical energy. This metric is typically used to evaluate smaller air conditioning units.
The SEER rating is a measure of a system’s efficiency over a particular period of time. It is similar to the car’s gas mileage. It is calculated using specific laboratory conditions.
5. Air purification
Having an air purification system installed in your HVAC system is one way to ensure that your air is clean and healthy for you and your family. Air purification systems can help remove dust, dirt, germs, and viruses. This can help improve your air quality and provide you with improved comfort. It is important that your air filter has a high MERV rating to ensure that your air is filtered to a high degree. The MERV rating also means that your filter will be more effective at removing contaminants.