How to Choose the Right HVAC System for Your Home

Learn how to choose the right HVAC system for your home by comparing efficiency, size, climate needs, and long-term comfort and costs.

Homeowners understand that the HVAC system they put into their home is one of the most important choices they will ever make.

If done right, you can save on energy costs, increase your comfort level and find a system that will last for decades. Get it wrong and you'll be faced with astronomical energy bills and never-ending repair costs.

Here's the catch…

Homeowners don't know what to look for in an HVAC system. Many just go with the lowest quote or the first contractor that comes along.

That's a mistake.

The good news is, finding the right HVAC system for your home doesn't have to be complicated. A few key considerations can help anyone choose a new system that's ideal for their home and budget.

What you'll discover:

• Why Your HVAC System Matters More Than You Think

• The Main Types of HVAC Systems

• Key Factors When Choosing Your System

• Finding the Right Size for Your Home

• Smart Features Worth Considering

Why Your HVAC System Matters More Than You Think

The U.S. Department of Energy notes that the average home spends about 35% of all energy use on heating, ventilation and cooling costs. That's the largest share of the pie.

Think about that for a second…

Over one third of all energy bills go directly to keeping the average home comfortable. A reliable HVAC service can help you understand these decisions and ensure your system is installed correctly. The reason is simple:

The wrong system costs money every single month.

An oversized unit turns on and off repeatedly. An undersized unit will run continuously without ever reaching the desired temperature. In both cases, the HVAC system's energy efficiency is reduced. This creates two negative outcomes for homeowners.

They see reduced comfort in their home, and they'll have to spend more money replacing equipment that didn't last as long as it should.

But on the flip side, when homeowners do things right? The Department of Energy reports that HVAC system upgrades can lead to a 20 to 50 percent reduction in energy usage. This means actual money in homeowners' pockets every month.

The Main Types of HVAC Systems

Before we dive into the decision-making process, it's important to understand the available options. Each system has its strengths, depending on the home, climate and budget.

Central Air Conditioning Systems

This is the most common configuration found in American homes. A central unit chills the air and pushes it throughout the house via ductwork. This is a great option for larger homes that already have an existing duct system.

Heat Pumps

Heat pumps provide both heating and cooling with one system. They transfer existing heat rather than generating it directly. This makes them very energy efficient. Newer heat pumps can work in even very cold climates.

Ductless Mini-Splits

Ideal for homes that lack ductwork or when adding a system to new space. Ductless systems allow homeowners to control temperatures by room. It's also great for additions or finished basements.

Furnaces

Old school furnaces work by burning fuel to generate heat. These are available in gas, oil, or electric models. Most homes will pair a furnace with a central air conditioner for year-round climate control.

Key Factors When Choosing Your System

OK… to the heart of the matter:

Selecting the right HVAC system is about balancing several factors. Jumping into this decision almost always leads to regrets later on.

Climate Considerations

First, where homeowners live is going to have a dramatic impact on the best system choice. Areas with hot and humid weather need strong cooling ability. Cold weather places demand high-performance heating.

Heat pumps are great for mild climates. But in really cold areas, homeowners may need a supplemental heating system or a cold-climate version of a heat pump.

Energy Efficiency Ratings

All HVAC equipment will have efficiency ratings attached. For air conditioners and heat pumps, check the SEER rating. The higher the SEER, the better.

The minimum required SEER rating now stands at 14-15 depending on region. But high-efficiency models are rated at 20 or higher. More upfront cost, but lower monthly bills.

For furnaces, look at the AFUE rating. This measures how much of the fuel used turns into heat vs. being lost through exhaust. High-efficiency furnaces see AFUEs of 95% or more.

Budget Reality

Let's be real…

The high-efficiency systems are going to be more expensive. But they pay for themselves through lower monthly energy bills. Homeowners need to consider both upfront and ongoing costs.

Here's another reason to consider more efficiency: improper installation can decrease HVAC efficiency by as much as 30 percent. Spending a little more on quality equipment and expert installation protects that investment.

Finding the Right Size for Your Home

This is the biggest mistake that homeowners make.

An HVAC system that's too big is not going to run efficiently. Oversized systems create uncomfortable temperature swings and extra humidity. Equipment also wears out more quickly with constant cycling.

The solution? Professional load calculation.

Technicians perform a complete analysis of square footage, ceiling height, insulation levels, window placement and local climate data. This helps them size the equipment with precision.

Don't trust a contractor who quotes you a system size without first performing a load calculation. It's a red flag every single time.

Smart Features Worth Considering

HVAC systems offer technology that was science fiction just 10 years ago.

Smart Thermostats

Smart thermostats learn your family's routines and adjust temperatures automatically. They can also save about $100 per year on energy costs while increasing comfort.

Homeowners can also control these devices remotely using a smartphone. This means you're not cooling an empty home all day.

Zoning Systems

Zoning systems allow different temperatures in different areas of the home. The master bedroom can stay cooler for sleeping, while the living room is warmer during the day.

This takes away the "too hot upstairs, too cold downstairs" problem that plagues many homes.

Variable Speed Technology

Older HVAC systems just run full speed or not at all. Variable speed equipment precisely tunes output to actual needs. This allows for more consistent temperatures, better humidity control and quieter operation.

Wrapping It All Up

The key to finding the right HVAC system for your home comes down to understanding your specific needs and then making informed decisions.

Remember these points:

• Make sure the system type matches the home's layout and existing infrastructure

• Take local climate into account when selecting new equipment

• Pay attention to energy efficiency ratings for long-term savings

• Never skip the professional load calculation

• Factor in smart features that can make life better and save money

Up to 3 million heating and cooling systems get replaced every year in the United States alone. That means a lot of homeowners are facing this decision. Those that take the time to understand their options are left with systems that perform better and last longer.

A well-chosen quality HVAC system is an investment that pays for itself in dividends for years to come. Lower energy bills, improved comfort and reduced repair calls make the research effort worthwhile.

Take the time and do it right the first time.