If you’re planning on buying a new HVAC system for your home, you might be overwhelmed by the many options and features available in the market. How do you choose the best system that meets your needs and budget? Here are some factors to consider before buying a new HVAC system.

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1. Size and Capacity

One of the most important things to look for in a new HVAC system is the size and capacity of the unit. A system that is too small or too large for your home can cause problems such as poor performance, high energy bills, frequent repairs, and reduced lifespan. To determine the right size and capacity for your home, you need to consider factors such as the square footage, layout, insulation, windows, climate, and number of occupants of your home. A professional HVAC contractor can help you perform a load calculation to find out how much heating and cooling your home requires.

2. Efficiency

Another factor to consider is the efficiency of the new HVAC system. Efficiency measures how well a system converts energy into heating or cooling output. The higher the efficiency rating, the less energy the system consumes and the more money you save on your utility bills. The efficiency of an HVAC system is expressed by two ratings: SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) for cooling systems and AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) for heating systems. The minimum SEER allowed for a new split system central air conditioner in the U.S. today is 14, while the minimum AFUE allowed for a new gas furnace is 80%. However, you can find systems with higher ratings that offer even more savings and comfort.

3. Air Quality

Another thing to look for in a new HVAC system is how well it improves the air quality in your home. Indoor air quality (IAQ) refers to the level of pollutants, allergens, humidity, and temperature in your indoor environment. Poor IAQ can cause health problems such as allergies, asthma, headaches, fatigue, and respiratory infections. To improve your IAQ, you should look for an HVAC system that has features such as air filters, humidifiers or dehumidifiers, ventilators or heat recovery units. These features can help remove dust, pollen, mold, bacteria, viruses, odors, and moisture from your indoor air.

4. Brand

Another factor to consider is the brand of the new HVAC system. There are many brands of HVAC systems available in the market, each with its own reputation, quality, warranty, and customer service. You should do some research on different brands and compare their features, prices, reviews, and ratings before making your decision. Some of the most popular brands of HVAC systems include Carrier, Trane, Lennox, Goodman, Rheem, and York.

5. Contractor

The last but not least thing to look for in a new HVAC system is the contractor who will install it. The installation of an HVAC system is not a DIY project; it requires skill, experience, and proper tools. A poorly installed HVAC system can cause problems such as leaks, noise, inefficiency, and safety hazards. Therefore, you should hire a licensed, bonded, insured, and reputable HVAC contractor who has experience with installing the type of system you want. You should also check their references, reviews, licensing, bonding, insurance, and sales agreements before hiring them.

Conclusion

Buying a new HVAC system can be a big investment for your home comfort and energy savings. However, by considering these five factors: size and capacity; efficiency; air quality; brand; and contractor; you can make an informed decision that suits your needs and budget.

Remember to consult with a professional HVAC contractor before making any purchase decisions.

FAQs

What is the importance of the size and capacity of an HVAC system when buying a new one?

The size and capacity of an HVAC system are crucial factors to consider when buying a new one because it affects the performance, energy efficiency, and lifespan of the system. A system that is too small or too large for your home can lead to poor performance, high energy bills, frequent repairs, and reduced lifespan.

What is the significance of the efficiency rating of an HVAC system?

The efficiency rating of an HVAC system is essential because it measures how well the system converts energy into heating or cooling output. The higher the efficiency rating, the less energy the system consumes, and the more money you save on your utility bills.

How can an HVAC system improve indoor air quality?

An HVAC system can improve indoor air quality by having features such as air filters, humidifiers or dehumidifiers, ventilators, or heat recovery units. These features can help remove dust, pollen, mold, bacteria, viruses, odors, and moisture from your indoor air.

Why is it important to consider the brand of an HVAC system when buying a new one?

It is essential to consider the brand of an HVAC system when buying a new one because each brand has its own reputation, quality, warranty, and customer service. Researching different brands and comparing their features, prices, reviews, and ratings can help you make an informed decision.

Why is it important to hire an HVAC contractor for the installation of a new HVAC system?

It is crucial to hire a licensed, bonded, insured, and reputable HVAC contractor for the installation of a new HVAC system because a poorly installed system can cause problems such as leaks, noise, inefficiency, and safety hazards. Hiring a professional with experience with installing the type of system you want can ensure that the system is installed correctly and operates efficiently.