A Complete Guide to the Different HVAC Types: Pros and Cons

Shopping for a new HVAC system can be a complicated process. There are a lot of different options out there, and a lot of different features you can choose from. How do you know what kind of system is right for your needs? Here’s a guide to help you figure it out.

Energy Saving Options

If your home suffers from disparate temperatures between rooms, or your family is constantly warring over what temperature the thermostat should be, you should look into a zoning system. Great for multi-level homes or sprawling, ranch-style houses, a zoning system divides your home into several different areas, based on their individual heating and cooling needs. Each zone has its own thermostat, to ensure air is distributed only as needed. This not only saves energy, but allows the entire house to be comfortable.

You might also consider a ductless mini-split system. Eliminating the air loss that comes with ductwork leaks, a mini-split can save energy, while also providing some zoning. They’re a little expensive to heat or cool your whole house with, but they’re great for single rooms, particularly add-ons that aren’t connected to your home’s ductwork.

Other HVAC Options

In climates like Florida, with milder winters, a heat pump is another great option for a new HVAC system. It takes the heat from the air outdoors and brings it inside, while pumping the cold indoor air outside. This allows it to heat your home for less energy.

Finally, a multi-stage HVAC system can keep you comfortable by varying its energy usage depending on the temperature. A single-stage system operates at only one level, and that level is designed to keep you warm on the coldest days, or cool on the hottest days. But what about the days that aren’t so extreme?

A multi-stage sytem can provide less air on days when the temperature is milder, so as not to waste energy, while still keeping you comfortable all year long.