What You Need to Look For in Your New HVAC Unit

Choosing a new HVAC system can be a daunting process, particularly if you’re unfamiliar with your options. Since most installations last between 15 and 20 years, this is a purchase you don’t deal with often. Fortunately, our knowledgeable technicians are on hand to help make this process as simple as possible. We can help you explore all your options for managing comfort in your Weston, Florida, home. Review these key considerations for selecting a new HVAC unit, and you’ll have a solid idea of where to start when you begin the shopping experience.

System Type

Modern HVAC systems come in all forms, from central heating and cooling units to small ductless installations. If you’re thinking of installing a new system, this is the perfect time to explore all your options. In our warm Floridian climate, cooling is typically the primary concern, but you may want heating as well. Packaged systems and heat pumps can offer both heating and cooling for your home.

If you have existing ductwork, a ducted system will probably be one of your first considerations, but you shouldn’t overlook the possibilities available with a ductless system. These units are extremely energy-efficient because you don’t have to worry about air loss through leaky ducts. You’ll have a single outdoor unit with several carefully placed indoor units. You can adjust your indoor units individually for customized comfort that won’t use more energy than necessary.

Proper Sizing

Sizing is a crucial consideration when you’re purchasing a new HVAC system. You should never rely on rule-of-thumb calculations to determine the best size for your new installation. Contact our professional technicians for a thorough home evaluation that can help guide your decision.

If your HVAC unit is too small, it won’t cool the home properly. You’ll notice the system runs almost constantly. The undersized air conditioner will experience excess strain from working overtime and will typically have more repair needs and a shorter lifespan. If the unit is too large, it will cycle on and off too frequently. This also creates undue stress on the system. In both cases, you’ll notice hot and cold spots around the home and experience poor energy efficiency.

When your system is sized just right, you’ll get even cooling throughout the home and low energy costs. Speak with our technicians for help finding that sweet spot with your HVAC selection.

Energy Efficiency

The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating on your air conditioner will let you know how efficient it is. Check your current HVAC system for an idea of how much improvement you’ll see from your new installation. Federal regulations call for a minimum SEER of 13 on all new HVAC units. However, you can find systems with SEER ratings of 20 or higher. Something between 14 and 17 is adequate for most homeowners, but a higher SEER number will result in lower utility bills and a lighter impact on the environment.

Choosing the best SEER is typically a careful balancing act between upfront price and long-term energy savings. Get the best system you can afford now, and you’ll see better returns on the investment in the years to come.

Noise Levels

The noise level of a new HVAC system is something homeowners often overlook prior to installation. You don’t want to end up with a new HVAC unit that creates a disruptive hum any time it’s operating, particularly if you’re sensitive to these types of background noises. The manufacturer or installation technician should be able to give you information about the noise levels of particular units. Look for an HVAC unit with a level below 60 decibels. If you’re having trouble choosing between two similar systems, opting for the quieter one can offer an easy tiebreaker.

If you’re ready to start exploring your options for a new air conditioning installation, call HI-VAC Air Conditioning Service at 954-246-4141. We offer a wide selection of Trane and Carrier products so that you can find the right choice for a home of any size. Reach out to our HVAC technicians today to learn more about picking the right system for your house.

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