There are different types of HVAC systems you can choose from. In the past, a split system was a common option. The term split is used because it’s actually two separate systems. In this type of unit, your furnace parts are completely separate from your air conditioning components. Both systems use the same ductwork, but all of the parts needed to make it run are contained separately. In a packaged HVAC unit, everything you need to heat and cool your home is in one combined unit. An example of this is a heat pump paired with a furnace.
Packaged Units Are More Energy Efficient
Newly designed packaged HVAC systems are far more energy efficient than old models. HVAC systems use the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) to show their level of efficiency. Older systems may have a SEER of up to 10. New standards require SEER ratings to be at least 14. When the SEER rating goes up, the homeowner sees the result in lowered utility bills. A packaged HVAC unit rated at 14 will heat and cool your home at a lower cost than an older split system. Modern systems also have variable-speed inverters that are able to detect the amount of energy you need. It uses this information to keep your home at a comfortable temperature without using excess energy. This all adds up to a lower energy cost for the homeowner.
Correct Sizing Is Important
Our brains are trained to think that bigger is always better. However, using an HVAC system that is too big for your space is a costly mistake. HVAC units are rated for certain sizes of homes. Using a system that isn’t rated for your home will typically cost you more money, put too much wear and tear on your equipment, and potentially reduce your indoor air quality. Your HVAC installer will measure your space and figure out the correct-sized system that you need. An experienced professional will be able to determine if a bigger system will result in energy waste.
The one caveat to this is if you will be expanding your home at some point in time. You probably don’t want to have a new system installed once your remodeling project has been completed, especially if your HVAC equipment is still relatively new. In this case, going with the bigger system makes economic sense. You may be wasting some energy temporarily, but you will save in the long run because your system will already be installed.
Lower Installation Cost
A split system requires two installations. You must have both the heating and cooling systems installed. This may even require two separate visits from your HVAC contractor, depending on the size of the job. Installation is an intricate and lengthy process. With a packaged HVAC unit, the entire system can be installed at one time, without the need for two separate visits. Since many HVAC companies charge you for each service hour accrued, this often saves you money in installation costs compared to a split system.
Save on Fuel Costs
One of the most common packaged HVAC systems is a dual-fuel system. This system uses a heat pump for cooling and mild heating and a furnace for colder weather. It also monitors your energy usage and determines when it is more economical to run electricity versus gas.
If you only need a moderate amount of heat, such as in the fall, the heat pump can provide this. By using electricity instead of fuel, you will save between 20% and 40% on your fuel bill. When the temperatures get colder, the gas furnace will heat your home to an even and comfortable temperature. By only using the furnace when it’s really cold, you will save on the cost of gas, which is more expensive than the function of your heat pump.
Smart Controls
The newer packaged-type HVAC systems that are used by HVAC companies today often come with smart controls. With an app, you can control your HVAC system from any connected device. If you’ve left for vacation and forgot to turn the heat down, you can just log on and turn it down remotely. Homeowners end up wasting a lot of their energy costs on running their HVAC systems when they aren’t even home. The app can also tell if using a different source of heat is more economical and make programming suggestions. By setting parameters on the app, you can ensure that your house will always be comfortable without being expensive. A smart thermostat can automatically tweak your heating or cooling while you are sleeping or away from home.
Lower Cost of Maintenance and Repair
A packaged HVAC unit is manufactured by one company. This can be very convenient and save you money when it comes to maintenance. When you have two different systems, your technician may have a harder time tracking down parts to complete the repair. This is especially true when the unit is old. The manufacturer may not even make parts anymore, and a substitution may need to be made. By having a single system, your technician will have an easier time determining which parts are needed. Most HVAC technicians travel with the most commonly needed parts. If separate units are very old or made by different manufacturers, your technician may have a hard time sourcing parts.
The best way to handle maintenance on your HVAC system is to sign up for a maintenance plan through your HVAC company. [Company_name] offers service agreements where you pay a fee to have your system checked periodically. You will also receive a discount on any parts and labor that are needed, saving you even more. Once you are on a maintenance schedule, you don’t have to worry about forgetting to schedule annual maintenance. Our technicians will come at the pre-scheduled time to inspect and maintain your system.
Importance of Energy Star Certification
You see the Energy Star designation on all types of appliances today. This designation is supported through the Environmental Protection Agency. An appliance with this designation protects the climate and improves air quality. By using more efficient systems, you help both yourself and the environment. Energy Star appliances and machines have saved American consumers billions of dollars in energy costs. Your local power company may even offer you a rebate or other financial incentive to choose an Energy Star-rated HVAC system. An HVAC professional can also give you guidance regarding which system you should consider installing.
Complete Care of Your HVAC Needs
[Company_name] is a full-service HVAC company. Providing heating, air conditioning, and duct cleaning solutions, our NATE-certified technicians can do it all. We install and maintain water heaters, air purifiers, and all types of HVAC systems. For over 20 years, we have served the La Puente area, and our reputation speaks for itself. Our friendly and competent technicians are ready to meet your HVAC needs.
Give Temp Air System Inc. in La Puente a call today to get a HVAC installation today.
