How to Choose a New HVAC Unit
Is it time to replace your home’s air conditioner? When choosing a new air conditioner for your home, there are many factors to consider. Selecting an HVAC unit that is the right size and efficiency for your needs can greatly reduce its operating costs and start saving you money immediately.
Get Help Choosing Your New HVAC Unit
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make when replacing their AC is trying to choose the right HVAC system on their own. The first step in selecting a new HVAC unit is to enlist the help of an experienced air conditioning service professional. A trained professional can perform a thorough evaluation of your home and your needs to get you started on the path to selecting the right unit. He can explain your various options and the features you might want to consider—or skip—to get the most benefit for your money.
1. Assess Your Cooling and Heating Needs
Before selecting a new HVAC unit, our HVAC specialists start by evaluating your specific cooling and heating needs. Factors such as the size of your home, existing ductwork, insulation, and climate play a critical role in determining the most suitable system. Certified Climate Control provides three main types of air conditioning systems, each with its own set of benefits.
2. Types of AC Systems Offered by Certified Climate Control
Certified Climate Control offers a range of air conditioning systems designed to meet the unique cooling needs of homeowners. Whether you’re looking for whole-home comfort or customized temperature control in specific areas, we provide solutions to suit various preferences and budgets. Our options include central air conditioning systems for efficient whole-house cooling, ductless mini-splits for targeted comfort, and heat pumps that deliver year-round energy efficiency. Here’s a closer look at each type of AC system we offer to help you choose the best fit for your home.
Install a Central AC System
Central air conditioning systems are an excellent choice for homeowners who want to cool their entire home using one centralized unit. These systems operate by distributing cooled air through a network of ducts, with a central AC unit that typically consists of an outdoor compressor and an indoor evaporator coil connected to a furnace or air handler. The centralized approach ensures consistent cooling throughout the home.
One of the main advantages of central AC systems is whole-home cooling. With a single thermostat, you can easily maintain consistent temperatures in every room, creating a comfortable living environment. Additionally, central systems offer the option to enhance indoor air quality by incorporating air purification filters or humidifiers into the ductwork, which can help to reduce allergens and maintain optimal humidity levels.
If your home already has ductwork in good condition, installing or replacing a central AC system can be a practical and efficient choice. The existing ducts make the process more convenient, reducing the need for extensive modifications. However, it is important to consider duct maintenance as a part of the system’s upkeep. To ensure the central AC operates efficiently, the ductwork should be inspected for leaks and properly sealed.
While central air conditioners provide effective cooling, they can consume more energy compared to other options if not properly maintained. Regular maintenance is essential to keep the system running efficiently and to manage energy costs. By addressing these considerations, homeowners can enjoy the benefits of a central AC system while keeping energy usage under control.
Do I Need to Replace My Ductwork to Install Central AC?
If your home already has ductwork in good condition, installing or replacing a central AC system becomes a straightforward and convenient option. The existing ducts allow for an easier installation process, as there's no need for extensive modifications. This compatibility can save time and reduce costs, making central air conditioning an efficient choice for homeowners who want to upgrade or replace their cooling system without major disruptions.
Ductless Mini-Splits AC Installation
For homeowners seeking more control over the temperature in individual rooms or specific zones, ductless mini-split systems offer a flexible and efficient solution. These AC systems consist of an outdoor unit connected to one or more indoor air-handling units, each dedicated to cooling a particular room or zone. With no need for ductwork, ductless mini-splits are ideal for older homes without existing ducts or for newly added spaces where installing ducts would be impractical.
One of the main advantages of ductless mini-splits is their energy efficiency, as they avoid the energy loss associated with ductwork in central systems. The zoned cooling feature allows for precise temperature control in individual rooms, helping to reduce energy consumption in areas that are not in use. Additionally, the installation process is relatively quick and non-invasive because it doesn’t involve modifying ductwork.
However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. The indoor units are wall-mounted, which may not suit every homeowner's aesthetic preferences, as they can be more visible compared to central air vents. Additionally, while the initial installation cost can be higher than traditional systems, the energy savings from improved efficiency and reduced energy waste can help offset the upfront expense over time.
Heat Pump Installation
Heat pumps offer an energy-efficient solution that provides both heating and cooling for your home, making them a versatile choice for year-round comfort. These systems work particularly well in mild to moderate climates, offering an efficient way to manage indoor temperatures throughout the seasons.
A heat pump operates by transferring heat from one place to another based on the time of year. During the summer, it extracts heat from your home and releases it outside to cool the indoor environment. In the winter, the process reverses, with the heat pump drawing warmth from the outside air or ground to heat your home, even when temperatures drop.
The benefits of heat pumps include the ability to deliver year-round comfort through a single system, providing both heating and cooling as needed. They are also known for their energy-saving capabilities, as they are more efficient than traditional electric resistance heating, which can help lower utility bills. Additionally, heat pumps have environmental benefits, producing fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional heating methods like gas furnaces.
However, there are some considerations. Heat pumps may be less efficient in extremely cold climates, potentially requiring a backup heat source to maintain warmth during harsh winters. Additionally, while air-source heat pumps are relatively straightforward to install, ground-source models can come with higher installation costs due to the need for digging or drilling to access the ground heat source.
4. The Benefits of Professional HVAC Consultation
Consulting with an HVAC professional can help you make the right decision based on a detailed assessment of your home. Certified Climate Control offers expert advice and installation services in Alafaya and the surrounding areas to ensure you get the most efficient and effective HVAC system for your needs. Our team of experts will make sure you get the right cooling solution.
Why AC Sizing Is Important
HVAC systems are available with a variety of heating and cooling capacities. The key to getting the most for your new HVAC unit is to purchase an appliance that is the correct size for your home. Schedule an HVAC inspection to find out how large your current unit is and whether it’s the right size. An HVAC professional can help you determine the capacity your new unit must have to deliver the greatest heating and cooling efficiency for your Orlando home.
If you’re tired of scheduling frequent AC repairs, it could be time to upgrade your HVAC system. Getting the help you need from an experienced Orlando AC service professional will ensure you are pleased with your purchase.
5. Why Choose Certified Climate Control for Your New HVAC Installation?
Certified Climate Control is dedicated to delivering top-quality HVAC solutions customized to fit your specific needs. We offer a comprehensive range of options, including central air conditioning systems, ductless mini-splits, and heat pumps, and our skilled technicians have the expertise to install and maintain any HVAC unit. We focus on energy-efficient products, helping you save on energy costs while keeping your home comfortable.
Our expert team handles every aspect of HVAC installation, from initial assessment to ongoing maintenance. With a strong commitment to customer service, we aim to exceed your expectations and ensure your complete satisfaction with every service.
Choosing a new HVAC unit can seem daunting, but with the right information and professional guidance, you can select the perfect system for your home. Whether you’re considering a central AC, ductless mini-split, or heat pump, Certified Climate Control is here to help you every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a more comfortable and energy-efficient home in Alafaya.
With these tips and options in mind, you're well on your way to making an informed decision that will keep your home comfortable year-round.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a New HVAC Unit
When deciding on a new HVAC system, keep the following factors in mind:
Home Size and Layout
The size and layout of your home influence the type of HVAC system you should choose. Larger homes may benefit from central AC for uniform cooling, while smaller or older homes may find ductless mini-splits more suitable.
Energy Efficiency
Energy-efficient HVAC units can significantly reduce your energy bills. Look for systems with a high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) for cooling and a high Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF) for heat pumps.
Budget
While the initial cost of an HVAC unit is a factor, also consider long-term savings. Energy-efficient models may cost more upfront but will save you money over time. Additionally, look for any available rebates or incentives for high-efficiency systems.
Existing Infrastructure
If your home has existing ductwork, it might be more practical to install a central AC system. However, if ductwork is not present or is in poor condition, a ductless mini-split or heat pump might be a more efficient choice.
Climate Conditions
For homeowners in areas with moderate winters, heat pumps are an excellent year-round solution. In hotter climates, central AC systems may provide the necessary cooling power.
AC Maintenance
Once you have installed your new AC system, you need to know how to make it last. We cover the essential AC maintenance tips in another blog.
Replace Your AC System With Certified Climate Control
Your air conditioner is just one component of your home’s HVAC system. Even a new energy-efficient air conditioner may not produce the desired results when coupled with an older, less efficient furnace and air handling system. Once you’ve selected the air conditioner you want to purchase, look at furnaces and air handlers that offer similar efficiency and capacity. By combining well-matched HVAC components, you’ll enjoy the full benefits of your new air conditioning system.
Speak with an HVAC expert to learn more about our home climate control options!
