The Need-To-Know Guide For Choosing The Right HVAC System
Heat pumps are an excellent choice, especially for moderate climates such as those we enjoy in Georgia. They offer a supplemental heating source during lower temperatures as well as a year-round resource for your indoor comfort. One of the great advantages of a heat pump is it moves heat instead of using energy to generate it. Additionally, the heat pump is powered by electricity, creating a serious fuel consumption savings.
Here’s how a heat pump works: This mechanical-compression system can be reversed to both heat and cool your home, as needed. Your heat pump can be installed as an indoor unit called an air handler and an outdoor unit similar to a central air conditioner.
If you are adding or replacing your heat pump, you may be overwhelmed by the many options in today’s marketplace. Decide which model is right for you with these helpful tips and criteria to consider.
- Types of Heat Pumps – If you are adding a new heat pump or even if you’re replacing the old one, you’ll start by choosing which of the three main types of heat pumps works best for you. Those three types are the air source, split ductless and geothermal. Your professional HVAC technician can help you determine which of these is best for your needs, the climate you live in and your current system’s configuration.
- Climate – In almost every area of the country with its diverse climates, a heat pump will likely work efficiently. Heat pumps do tend to work best, however, in temperate climates without wide temperature swings and moderate heating and cooling needs.
- Energy Efficiency – According to the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, your new heat pump should at least 15 SEER and 8.5 HSPF. The most-efficient Energy Star-rated heat pumps are 18 to 27.5 SEER and 8.5 to 12.5 HSPF. Depending on where you live and your unique situation, you could save hundreds of dollars each year on your utility bills by installing a heat pump.
- Sizing – Size matters. Depending on your property, an undersized or oversized heat pump won’t effectively heat or cool the space and will ultimately increase your energy bills as reduce your comfort levels inside your home.
The best way to truly make a sound decision of which heat pump to add to your HVAC system is to work with a knowledgeable and experienced heating and cooling professionals such as Stiles Heating, Cooling, & Plumbing, family-owned and operated in Athens since 1974. Our techs will carefully consider each calculation and variable affecting your choice including your home’s foundation, wall thicknesses, insulation values, windows, current air filtration systems and more. Getting started is easy, just schedule a free consultation with the team at Stiles today.
Reach out to the pros at Stiles Heating, Cooling, & Plumbing.
