Choosing the Best HVAC Unit

When it’s time to replace your HVAC unit, you’ll be scouring the internet for costs, specifications, life spans, and warranties to make sure you’re getting the best deal on your new unit. One major factor to consider is whether the unit is energy efficient. HVAC units of the past wasted energy and even damaged the ozone layer with their use of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) in refrigerants, but it has been a slow move toward environmentally-friendly units. Look for ENERGY STAR qualified units or ones that uses ozone-safe hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which cut energy use for air conditioning and heating by 20% to 50%– and turn into major savings for you.

There are 3 main types of HVAC systems: central, ductless, and heat pumps, each of which with advantages and disadvantages depending on climate and size of home. As you come closer to a decision, you might want to hire an HVAC contractor, who will help translate HVAC jargon so that you’ll know the exactly kind of unit to buy when the time comes.