At HVAC-ENG, we know that choosing the right HVAC equipment supplies for your home can be overwhelming.
A well-designed HVAC system is key to maintaining a comfortable and healthy living environment year-round.
In this post, we’ll break down the essential HVAC equipment you need to consider for your home, from air conditioning and heating to ventilation and air quality solutions.
What Air Conditioning Equipment Do You Need?
Selecting the right air conditioning equipment for your home is essential for comfort and energy efficiency. Let’s explore the main types of AC systems and their benefits.
Central AC Units: Powerful Whole-Home Cooling
Central AC units cool your entire home through a network of ducts. These systems are highly efficient, using 30% to 50% less energy to produce the same amount of cooling as air conditioners made in the mid 1970s.
When choosing a central AC unit, focus on the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating. A higher SEER rating indicates better energy efficiency. As of 2023, new central air conditioners must have a minimum SEER rating of 14 in the northern United States and 15 in the southern states.
Ductless Mini-Split Systems: Flexible and Efficient
Ductless mini-split systems are perfect for homes without existing ductwork or for adding cooling to specific rooms. These systems consist of an outdoor compressor unit and one or more indoor air-handling units.
Ductless systems offer impressive efficiency and are more energy efficient than central air units, potentially lowering bills. They also provide zone control, allowing you to cool only the rooms you use.
Window Units: Budget-Friendly Cooling
Window units are a cost-effective option for cooling single rooms or small spaces. While less efficient than central or ductless systems, they can be an excellent choice for temporary cooling needs or smaller budgets.
When selecting a window unit, consider the room size and the unit’s cooling capacity (measured in BTUs). A good rule of thumb is to use 20 BTUs per square foot of living space. For example, a 300 square foot room would require a 6,000 BTU air conditioner.
Portable Air Conditioners: Cooling on the Go
Portable air conditioners offer flexibility and convenience. These units can be moved from room to room, making them ideal for renters or those who need temporary cooling solutions.
Like window units, portable air conditioners are less efficient than central or ductless systems. However, they can be a practical option for specific situations (such as rooms where window units aren’t feasible).
Energy Efficiency Considerations
Regardless of the type of air conditioning equipment you choose, prioritize energy efficiency. Look for ENERGY STAR certified models, which use about 15% less energy than standard models. This efficiency can potentially save you $85 over the lifetime of the unit.
As we move forward, it’s important to consider how your cooling system integrates with your overall HVAC setup. Let’s explore the heating equipment that complements your air conditioning choices.
How to Choose the Right Heating Equipment for Your Home
Selecting the appropriate heating equipment will maintain a comfortable and energy-efficient home. Let’s explore the main types of heating equipment and their benefits.
Gas Furnaces: Efficient and Cost-Effective
Gas furnaces are a popular choice for many homeowners due to their efficiency and relatively low operating costs. Modern high-efficiency gas furnaces can achieve AFUE ratings of up to 98.5%, meaning nearly all the fuel converts into usable heat. When selecting a gas furnace, look for ENERGY STAR certified models, which can be up to 15% more efficient than standard models.
The U.S. Department of Energy reports that upgrading from an old 56% AFUE furnace to a new 90% AFUE model in an average cold-climate house can potentially save 1.5 tons of carbon dioxide emissions each year if you heat with gas.
Heat Pumps: Versatile Year-Round Comfort
Heat pumps offer both heating and cooling capabilities, making them an excellent choice for moderate climates. These systems work by transferring heat from the outside air or ground into your home during winter and reversing the process in summer.
According to the Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnerships, ductless heat pumps can reduce your electricity use for heating by 60% compared to electric resistance heating. When choosing a heat pump, pay attention to the Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF). The higher the HSPF, the more efficient the unit. As of 2023, the minimum HSPF for new heat pumps is 8.8.
Boilers: Consistent Warmth for Older Homes
Boilers often provide consistent heat through radiators or radiant floor systems in older homes. While less common in new constructions, modern boilers can be highly efficient. Look for condensing boilers, which can achieve efficiency ratings of 90% or higher.
The Energy Saving Trust estimates that upgrading an old G-rated boiler to a new A-rated condensing boiler (with a programmer, room thermostat, and thermostatic radiator controls) could save you about £300 a year on your energy bills.
Radiant Heating Systems: Comfortable and Efficient
Radiant heating systems provide warmth directly to floors, walls, or ceilings. These systems can be more efficient than forced-air systems because they eliminate duct losses. Radiant floor heating is particularly popular for its ability to provide consistent, comfortable heat.
The U.S. Department of Energy states that radiant heating is more efficient than baseboard heating and usually more efficient than forced-air heating because it eliminates duct losses.
Choosing the right heating equipment depends on various factors, including your home’s size, local climate, and energy costs. Always consult with a qualified HVAC professional to determine the best heating solution for your specific needs. Proper sizing and installation are key for optimal performance and efficiency, regardless of the system you choose.
Now that we’ve covered heating equipment, let’s turn our attention to another critical aspect of your home’s HVAC system: ventilation and air quality equipment.
How to Improve Your Home’s Air Quality
Select the Right Air Filters
Air filters serve as the primary defense against airborne contaminants. The Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rating indicates a filter’s effectiveness. We recommend filters with MERV ratings between 8 and 13 for most residential applications. As the MERV rating increases, the filtration becomes finer, allowing fewer airborne contaminants and dust particles to pass through.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency advises checking your filter every month and replacing it at least every three months. Homes with pets or in areas with high pollution may require more frequent changes.
Control Humidity for Comfort and Health
Proper humidity levels are essential for both comfort and health. The ideal indoor relative humidity range falls between 30% and 50%. Excessive humidity can promote mold growth, while insufficient humidity can cause dry skin and respiratory issues.
Whole-house humidifiers and dehumidifiers integrated into your HVAC system provide the most comprehensive solution. Whole-house dehumidifiers are more effective in removing moisture from the air, removing many more gallons per day compared to portable units.
Purify Your Air
Air purifiers can eliminate contaminants that your HVAC filter might miss. We suggest purifiers with High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters, which can remove 99.97% of airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns.
For homes with specific air quality concerns, consider purifiers with additional features. UV-C light purifiers can eliminate airborne bacteria and viruses, while activated carbon filters effectively remove odors and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Ensure Proper Ventilation
Proper ventilation plays a key role in maintaining good indoor air quality. The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) recommends that homes have a ventilation rate of 0.35 air changes per hour or 15 cubic feet per minute (cfm) per person, whichever is greater.
Exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms are essential for removing moisture and odors. For kitchens, select fans that can move at least 100 cfm of air. Bathroom fans should change the air in the room 8 times per hour.
For whole-house ventilation, consider a Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV) or Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV). These systems can provide fresh air while recovering up to 80% of the energy that would typically be lost through exhaust air.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the right HVAC equipment supplies for your home impacts your comfort, energy efficiency, and long-term costs. Each component, from air conditioning units to heating systems and air quality equipment, plays a vital role in creating a comfortable and healthy living environment. We at HVAC-ENG recommend consulting with qualified HVAC professionals who can provide personalized solutions tailored to your specific needs.
Investing in high-quality HVAC equipment and professional installation can lead to significant long-term benefits. Energy-efficient systems can reduce your utility bills, while proper maintenance can extend the lifespan of your equipment and prevent costly repairs. A well-designed HVAC system also contributes to better indoor air quality, enhancing the overall health and well-being of your household.
For more in-depth information on HVAC systems, design methodologies, and equipment specifications (including HVAC equipment supplies), we invite you to explore our comprehensive resources at HVAC-ENG. Our platform offers valuable insights and tools to help you make informed decisions about your home’s HVAC needs. We strive to provide you with the knowledge to create a comfortable, efficient, and healthy living space for years to come.
