Having an HVAC system helps keep your home comfortable with the changing seasons all year. If you happen to need to replace or install a new HVAC system, it’s good to know that there are different types of HVAC units and how they work. HVAC can seem intimidating and hard to figure out what will work for your home. To help you figure out the different systems, we’ll go over the most common HVAC systems and how they work.
1. Heating and Cooling Split Systems
One of the most common HVAC systems you’ll find is the heating and cooling split systems. Like the name implies, there’s two separate units that one heats and the other cools. One unit, typically the AC, is outside while the heater is inside the home in a space like the basement or utility closet. With the cooling system outside it uses the refrigerant, coils, and compressors to cool the air, while the heater uses a fan or evaporator to circulate the air. They’re controlled by a thermostat and use ductwork to circulate the air. This system is the most common because it doesn’t have any specific needs and can be widely used. A downside is the forced air can disperse dust, allergen and kitchen odors around the home. That’s why it’s important to replace your air filter every 3 months so it doesn’t keep spreading dirty air around your home.
2. Hybrid Split System
With the hybrid system there are some similarities to the split system, but they do have some differences. This system is becoming popular because of its ability to lower energy costs through electric hybrid heating. The homeowner has the ability to switch between the gas power and electric to heat their home, which is great for homes in milder climates that don’t get as cold during the winter. The system is controlled by a thermostat and uses ductwork to force the air into your home. It has the uses of a split system while also having the benefits of reducing energy bills by conserving energy. The system is expensive compared to the heat and AC split system because hybrid systems cost more. And much like the first one, it can also spread dust, odor and allergen around your home so it’s important to change your filter on schedule to reduce the spread of them.
3. Duct Free (Mini-Split)
The duct free or mini-split system is different from the ones we talked about and has its own benefits based on certain households. It’s a great option for homes that can’t use traditional duct systems and can have duct free units installed into particular areas of the home where heating and cooling is needed. The units are mounted indoors on the wall for each room and can be used independently and are attached to an outdoor compressor. It can be an expensive installation but it’s great for homes that want to heat or cool a specific room like the garage or specific rooms in the house. As well as if you don’t use all the rooms in your home and just having them in specific ones can be energy efficient. If you happen to live in a colder climate this system might not be beneficial because of it being low heat effective. They also require cleaning and maintenance more often to help avoid any repairs or replacements because they can get costly.
4. Packaged Heating and AC System
The packaged heating and cooling system is unique and beneficial for smaller homes. The system is a compact size that contains both heating and cooling in one unit and can be energy efficient. It’s installed outdoors or indoors, like the attic or storage space, depending on the layout of your home. They work by having the air from inside the home move to the unit through the air duct and can heat or cool your home. The heat is electrically generated, or a combo of gas and electric heat, and cool by air conditioning probes. The air will be sent back through a second air duct and join the duct system so it can be blown throughout the house. The system is good for homes that live in warmer climates because the heating system isn’t as powerful as other options. The unit though doesn’t last as long if it’s under harsh weather when it’s outside because of the rust and damage.
With there being different types of HVAC units, it’s important to be prepared to decide which one is perfect for your home. Your HVAC technician will help you in deciding the right one for you and have it professionally installed. It’s important that no matter what HVAC system you get that it’s maintained regularly so it works efficiently and lasts long. Our team at Omni Air HVAC can help you navigate and find the perfect HVAC system for your home. With their knowledge and expertise, our skilled technicians can install and have it maintained to keep you and your family comfortable all year long. Call us today for all your HVAC needs!