If it’s been a long time since you last replaced the HVAC system in your Hoover, Alabama, home, so you may be surprised at how much heating and cooling technology has changed over the years. Modern HVAC systems come with features that deliver better comfort, reliability, and energy efficiency than older models. Below is a list of features you should look for when choosing a new HVAC unit.
High SEER Rating HVAC System
Nowadays, every new HVAC system is assigned a Seasonal Energy-Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating. A model with a high SEER rating is more energy-efficient than one with a low rating. In Alabama, the minimum SEER rating is 14, but you can opt for a unit with a higher rating if you want to keep your energy bills low.
A high SEER HVAC model is usually more expensive, but can be worth the extra cost because it can help you save substantially over the long run. Models are available with SEER ratings up to 20 SEER. It’s recommended that you choose a unit with an Energy Star logo for maximum energy savings.
Variable-Speed Motor
An old HVAC system typically uses a single-speed motor to blow air throughout an indoor space. This means it only runs at full speed or not at all, which can result in uneven temperature distribution and higher energy consumption. A single-speed motor is also likely to sustain more wear and tear, which can affect the longevity of the HVAC unit.
A modern HVAC system, on the other hand, usually comes with a variable-speed motor. This type of motor offers more control over the amount of conditioned air flowing through the vents. In times of extreme temperatures, it can operate at 100% to create a comfortable environment in your home. When the weather is milder, it can raise or lower the temperature by just a few degrees. Since it doesn’t work at 100 percent all of the time, a variable-speed motor experiences less strain and reduces energy use.
Smart Thermostat
If your HVAC unit has a traditional thermostat, you’ll have to manually adjust the temperature setting from time to time to keep your home comfortable throughout the day. Failure to do so can result in discomfort and energy waste.
Many modern HVAC systems are equipped with a smart thermostat, which comes with programmable features that allow you to preset your temperature preferences for an entire day or week. This type of thermostat can also learn your schedule and behavior and adjust the temperature accordingly to deliver optimal comfort and energy savings. Another important feature of a smart thermostat is its internet connectivity. This enables you to control the temperature in your home from any location via an app on your smartphone or tablet.
Zoning System
If you live in a big house, an ordinary HVAC system may not be able to maintain a comfortable temperature throughout your indoor space. This is especially true if your house has multiple floors or areas that receive significantly more sunlight. In this case, you’ll likely experience uneven temperatures in your home even if you have a correctly sized HVAC unit. Also, your system will deliver conditioned air to rooms that aren’t being used, resulting in energy waste.
Zoning is one of the most important HVAC innovations in recent years. Zoning turns an HVAC unit into a multifaceted system that enables separate climate control settings in different areas of your home. With this feature, you can create a comfortable environment in rooms with different climate conditions and satisfy the temperature preferences of each of your family members. Additionally, you can save energy by heating only rooms that are occupied. Introducing a zoning system is as easy as installing dampers in your ducts and a thermostat in each zone.
Getting an HVAC system with these features can go a long way in making your home more comfortable and energy efficient. If you’re looking for a reputable company that offers top-quality HVAC installation services, get in touch with the helpful experts at Total Comfort Heating and Air. Call us today.
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