If you are looking for a heating and cooling system for your home and are wondering which one to buy from so many options, there is no need to bother because we have shared information about different types of HVAC systems to help you buy the best one for your home. There's a rule of thumb to select an HVAC system, i.e., the best system is one that suits your requirements perfectly. Read the article to learn more about the types of HVAC systems in detail.
Understanding HVAC Systems
HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. The HVAC system enables you to control the heating and cooling temperature as per the need. HVAC systems are known by several names, such as central air conditioners, furnaces, boilers, or ductless AC units. There are two types of systems available. For weather-changing areas, a combined system with heating and cooling in one unit is available, and for predictable climate, a single system is good enough.
Various Types of HVAC Systems
Heating and Cooling Split Systems
Heating and cooling systems are the common systems with two separate cooling and heating units to maintain the indoor temperature. The heating and cooling system is controlled by a single thermostat. These systems have one outdoor unit and one indoor unit.
Advantages of Heating and Cooling Split Systems
- It is famous
- It is efficient
- Budget-friendly
- The duct system can be easily replaced without any changes
- Energy efficient
Disadvantages of Heating and Cooling Split Systems
- Dust and allergens are spread around the house due to forced air system
- Chances of kitchen food and other smells apply to different parts of the home
Hybrid Heat/Split Systems
This system is similar to the split system. As the name suggests, a hybrid split system gives flexibility to select between gas power or electric power for heating. The hybrid split system is the best choice for areas with frequent weather changes during winter. The system has a heat pump and furnace for flexibility. The heat pump controls the cooling and heating during mild outdoor temperatures, and the furnace ensures indoor heating during extremely cold weather.
Advantages of Split Systems
- Energy efficiency due to electric hybrid heater system
- It has an effective heating capacity
- Help you save energy bills in the long run
Disadvantages of Split Systems
- Ductwork is costly
- Dust and odor spreads around the house due to the forced air
- It costs more than an AC
Ductless Systems
A ductless system has many units located in rooms mounted on the home's walls and connected to an external compressor placed outside the house. The best feature of the ductless system is that you don't have independent control over the individual rooms rather than central control.
Advantages of Ductless Systems
- The best energy-saving option because it provides individual temperature control for rooms
- No additional infrastructure is required because it's ductless
Disadvantages of Ductless Systems
- Heat efficiency is low
- Not a perfect choice for cold regions
- Maintenance is high because parts are not easily available
Packaged Heating and Cooling Systems
In this system, a heating and air unit is combined and installed in the attic area of the top floor, which keeps the house heated and cool with a single unit. It is preferred in warm regions. It is available in gas and electric heat output options for powerful heating.
Advantages of Packaged Heating and Cooling Systems
- Since the mechanical component is installed outside the house and the system is installed inside the house, there's not much disturbing noise.
Disadvantages of Packaged Heating and Cooling Systems
- The options are limited as compared to ductless and conventional systems.
- Heat efficiency is low.
- It is costly
Geothermal Systems
This system uses a network of pipes known as a ground loop to pull heat from the earth. In this system, pipes are laid down below the earth's level, where water is circulated using the earth's stable temperature to maintain heating in the cold season and cooling during summers. The heating occurs when refrigerant is heated from the ground, and for cooling, heat is given to the ground to maintain a pleasant temperature.
Advantages of Geothermal Systems
- Energy efficient
- Low maintenance cost
Disadvantages of Geothermal Systems
- If the looping system needs some repair, it costs a lot
- If using an air handler, it may require duct-adding infrastructure cost
Points to Consider When Selecting the Right HVAC System for Your Home
- When replacing the old system, it is advisable to buy the existing type of system to avoid the additional cost of infrastructure.
- Check the efficiency level
- If you plan to stay longer in the house, it's advisable to install a costly system because it takes a minimum of 10 years to enjoy the benefits.
- The weather conditions of the area where you stay are important. For warm climates, opt for a furnace split system because it's affordable and cost-effective. If you plan to stay in the house for longer, then geothermal is a better option. For cold weather, the best option is a conventional gas furnace.
- Size is vital. Always select the perfect size of AC unit and furnace.
Also Read: Maintaining Ideal Conditions- HVAC Humidity Control Explained
The Best HVAC Units for Homes
Central AC System
Central air conditioning is the second most preferred choice for residential purposes after wall mounting and window AC. This system is based on the function of ducts and a blower to spread cool air in the house. The disadvantage is that it needs the company of another source of heat, such as a furnace.
Furnace
The furnace is an affordable, low-maintenance, simple, and energy-efficient choice for residential homeowners. These furnaces use natural gas for heating. The disadvantage is that they dry out the air, causing breathing problems.
Ductless Mini Splits
It is a preferred choice for homeowners who don't have ducts installed. They have two units: one is indoors, which spreads cool and warm air in the home, and the second unit is in the outdoor area to expel the exhaust. The advantage is it helps in heating and cooling, and the disadvantage is it is costly and not fit for extreme cold weather.
Heat Pump
Heat pumps are best suited for moderate climates because they function on heat transfer between indoor and outdoor air depending on the sizable temperature difference to efficiently transfer the heat. Though it is costly, in the long run, the cost is balanced. The disadvantage is its short lifespan.
Window Units
It is one of the most affordable options for homes. Those on rent opt for window units because there's no hassle of a complicated installation process, and it is easy to move.
Wall Mounted Units
It is a preferred option for temporary setup for tenants because it is affordable. It is more efficient when compared to window units and less efficient as compared to centralized units.
Conclusion
Installing an HVAC system is important to keep the homes safe and comfortable. Consider all the essential factors affecting the HVAC choice, such as the size of the house, the specific area of the house where you want to control temperature, maintenance cost, the number of years you plan to stay in the house, and your budget. After all these factors, get in touch with professionals.
