When it comes time to upgrade your HVAC unit, you may be overwhelmed at the many available options. Choosing the right HVAC unit is important to guarantee comfort and efficiency. Consider the following features when buying a new HVAC unit for your Hillsborough County, Florida, home.
Efficiency Ratings
Fortunately, most new HVAC units are made with high-efficiency ratings. A cooling unit’s efficiency is listed as the seasonal energy-efficiency rating (SEER). Most air conditioning units today will have a minimum SEER of 15 or higher. The higher you go in SEER rating, the more efficient your unit will be.
Furnaces are rated with Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE), with new units reaching as high as 98.5 percent in efficiency. An efficient unit means that it is able to effectively heat and cool your home without wasting resources. This often translates to significant utility cost-savings.
Current Household Setup
Your home’s current setup could also dictate the HVAC unit that you choose. Size is an important factor to consider so that you know your unit will fit in its designated location. Additionally, you want to choose a unit that is large enough to effectively heat or cool your entire home. This is a great time to consider the pros and cons of your previous unit’s size and then adjust accordingly.
Larger homes may need larger units, whereas using a larger unit in a smaller home can be inefficient. Matching your unit to your home’s size will play an important role in improving its efficiency. Another household setup factor to consider is whether you will go with a duct or ductless HVAC unit. Ductless units tend to be smaller in size which is a great choice if you are short on space.
However, if your home is already set up with ducts, then it might make more sense to choose a duct unit instead. Having an experienced HVAC contractor evaluate your home’s current setup can help you make the right decision.
Cost of Unit
The price of an HVAC unit should not be your deciding factor. The cheapest unit may end up costing you more in the long run with expensive parts, frequent repairs, and low efficiency. On the other hand, the most expensive unit may not be worth the increased price tag. This is also a great time to consider purchasing a maintenance plan. A maintenance plan ensures that you stick to a regular tune-up schedule, protecting your new unit and maximizing its efficiency.
Before choosing a unit, it is best to consult with a professional who can advise you on the expected cost of maintenance and the efficiency expectations. You are going to have this HVAC unit for many years to come, so it is important to choose one that offers you more than a one-time low cost. There are ways to cut costs on your new unit without sacrificing quality.
Available Add-Ons
In addition to the high-efficiency ratings of newer HVAC units, there are also many add-ons that can increase your efficiency even more. Pairing the right HVAC unit with a programmable thermostat not only gives you higher efficiency but can also offer you a home that has a consistent temperature and is comfortable all year long. Choosing the right air filter can also make a significant difference in efficiency and air quality. While fiberglass filters are the cheapest and most common type of filter used, they are not the most efficient.
Instead, pair your new HVAC unit with a programmable thermostat and a higher-MERV filter for the best results. A whole-house humidifier is another optional add-on, depending on the HVAC unit that you purchase. Pairing the right humidifier with your new HVAC unit will eliminate dry air by adding moisture to it.
There are many options available when replacing your HVAC unit. Before you purchase one, consider your efficiency needs, the current HVAC setup of your household, the cost of the unit, and any additional add-ons that you might need. Call Senica Air Conditioning today at 866-881-5935 to discuss your new HVAC unit needs with a professional.
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