The Definitive Guide to HVAC Installation, Designed For Lowcountry Families, Part 2: Choosing The Right HVAC System
Published by Travis Baucom on
In last week’s post, Katy gave you a rundown on choosing a local HVAC company and in this week’s post I want to cover some items that are important for selecting your system.
Whether you need a new heating system, heat pump or air conditioning system – or some combination of those system types – if you end up installing the wrong system for your Lowcountry home, your family could be looking at some uncomfortable days during our peak weather seasons.
Understanding which system will work best for your particular Lowcountry home isn’t always easy.
Below I’m going to give you some items that you can make sure and cover with your local HVAC team, however to make absolutely sure you get the right system:
You should consult a professional before making your system selection.
That said, let’s jump in!
1. Understand Your Current System
It isn’t always the case that you can simply “swap” out your current system for a new system that’s very similar, but in that case one thing you can do is review what type of system you have to get an idea of what you might need.
HVAC systems can be simple – or incredibly complex so it’s not always easy to see each component you may have in your Lowcountry home.
The variety of moving parts and pieces of equipment that make up your system can be overwhelming.
I mentioned in a post last year the differences between a traditional air conditioning systems and a heat pump which can help get you started.
2. Size Matters
Getting the correct size system for your particular home is vital.
A system that’s too large may cool down your home too quickly, leaving behind some lingering humidity.
A system that’s too small may constantly run – driving up energy costs.
Again, depending on your home’s makeup and particular system configuration the size of your system can vary quite a bit, so it’s a very important factor when picking out a new system (or systems).
3. Ask About Alternative/Modern System Types
While simply “swapping” out your system with an updated version of your current system can be an option, be sure to ask about alternative or modern system types.
The HVAC industry is constantly innovating with new systems types and configurations, which leads to improved efficiency and advanced customization options for homeowners.
From different system operational speeds, to an ever-improving scale of efficiency ratings, the possibilities for your new system are almost endless.
4. For More Granular Temperature Control
A system type that has become quite popular here in the Lowcountry, ductless mini-split systems are a great way to add on additional, more granular control over the comfort settings in your home.
Without the need for ductwork, these can be added to areas of your home that don’t have existing ductwork run to them or wherever you would like to have more advanced control over temperature.
Home offices, garages, pool houses and home additions are some great examples where ductless systems would make a great option for you.
5. Accessories & Other Add-Ons
Outside of your base system components, there are also an endless amount of accessories and add-ons you can have installed.
From smart thermostats to indoor air quality components, be sure to ask if these would be a good fit for your particular home in the Charleston area.
6. When In Doubt, Ask Your Local HVAC Experts
If you’ve made it this far, you can see that choosing a new system for your home can be incredibly challenging, even for the most knowledgeable homeowners.
For this reason, this is why most homeowners opt for professional HVAC contracting expertise in selecting a system.
They have the tools, the background knowledge and local experience to understand your home’s unique comfort needs, so it gives you the best odds of getting the right system – the first time.
Along with their expertise, they’ll also have the correct licensing and insurance that will give you peace of mind when they install it.
As we like to say, your home’s HVAC system isn’t just another expense — it’s an investment in your family’s comfort.
And after getting the right team in place, getting the right system can go a long way to making that comfort investment pay off this year – and beyond – in the Lowcountry.
