How to choose the right heating and cooling system for your home. - https://youtu.be/vYnzov7Wqpg via Tumblr How to choose the right heating and cooling system for your...
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Let us begin with this question – What is HVAC?In the world of heating and cooling industry, HVAC is an acronym that stands for heating, ventilation and air conditioning - all three functions in one system. Most modern homes already include a central HVAC system which provides cooled, warmed, or dehumidified air distributed throughout the home using a series of tubes also referred to as ducts. If you are looking for the most convenient and quiet way to get your home warmed or cooled as needed, getting an HVAC system installed is the way to go. HVAC systems use more energy and can cost a lot of money compared to the other appliances that you have. This is why HVAC systems are usually one of the biggest, if not the biggest purchase you will make for your home. It usually takes up 44 percent of the energy bills that you pay. But with proper maintenance, an upgrade of your system, proper insulation and thermostat settings, and weatherization, you may still be able to reduce the expenses. If you are still in the process of deciding on getting a central HVAC installed in your home, always look for units with Energy Star labels. These are the most energy efficient systems that are recommended for all homeowners.Central Air ConditioningAir conditioners in an HVAC system are usually paired with either a gas or an oil furnace that distributes heat through the same ducts that the air conditioner uses to produce cool air. There are also HVAC systems that are called heat pumps which include both heating and cooling functions. A heat pump uses electrical energy and can heat up to 3 times than the energy it consumes. The use of a heat pump can reduce the use of electrical energy (for heating) for up to 30-40 percent. Heat pumps are recommended for homes in moderate climates. Air conditioners and heat pumps make use of some different mechanisms, but both function on the same basic principles.How do HVAC systems work?Most central HVAC systems and heat pumps are referred to as ‘split systems’. This is because the condenser is located outside while the evaporator coils are inside. These units extract heat from the inside (if cooling the room) and transport it outside. This will leave the cold air inside to be circulated by the fans.This is how it works:Your outside unit contains the compressor. This compressor turns the refrigerant into a high-pressure gas with high temperature. While going through the coils outside, it will start losing heat. It will then condense and will pass through the evaporator coils but still with high temperature and high pressure. As it passes through the evaporator coils, it will be allowed to expand causing the refrigerant to have low pressure and low temperature. It absorbs the heat from the air that was originally circulating in your ductwork, leaving only cooler air that will be distributed to all your rooms. The refrigerant with low temperature and pressure will then go back to the compressor to repeat the cycle. Since it absorbs the heat while the refrigerant is passing through the coils, it also dehumidifies the air. During cold weather, the same process happens. This time, it takes the heat from the outside and transfers it inside. You may think that it’s cold outside so there would be no heat. Air with -200 degrees temperature does not contain heat. Air with temperature higher than that still has heat.2 Types of HVAC Systems:
How to Rate HVAC EfficiencyCentral HVAC systems efficiency is rated by Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. SEER rating appears on the black and yellow EnergyGuide sticker that is located outside the unit. Typically, SEER ratings can range from 13 to 23. The higher the number, the more efficient the unit is. If a unit is included in the top 25% of the efficient models, it will also have the Energy Star label. SEER rating for Energy Star-labeled units is at least 14.5. These units should also have a minimum Energy Efficiency of 12 for split-system units and 11 for packaged units. Heating efficiency of heat pumps is rated by Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF). The higher the rating, the less energy it consumes.Levels of SoundMost consumers do not think about noise when choosing their HVAC units – until they have the unit all set up and running. Although some of the noise comes from the unit outside, it is best to know the sound level of the unit as it may interfere with your home’s peace. When shopping for a unit, also take into consideration the level of sounds from each model. Sound levels of outdoor units are measured in “bels” which is scaled from 0 to 13. O rating is the sound that is barely perceptible and 13 is the highest. The sound levels for heat pumps and air conditioners range from 8 to 9 bels but there are some that are quiet and are rated at 6.8 bels. Note that units with 9 bels are 10 times louder that units with 8 bels.Talk to the ExpertsThere is a lot to consider when choosing a central heating and cooling system. It is important to talk to a reliable HVAC company so you can discuss the best options they have in store for you.via Tumblr All About Central Heating and Cooling Systems |