CouponsComparison of Different HVAC Systems
Does it blog your mind that the USA uses more energy for air conditioning than the entire continent of Africa? This is because more than 87% of US homes are equipped with air conditioning.
Many different types of air conditioning and HVAC systems are available on the market these days. It’s essential to understand the pros and cons of each type to decide which system is best for your home. This article compares the different types to better assist you in making a decision.
Keep in mind that what might be the best system for one home might not be ideal for another. Consider your specific needs when buying a unit. Let’s take a look at some different HVAC systems.
What Is an HVAC System?
First, let’s answer the question of what an HVAC system is. HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. It’s a system that regulates the temperature and airflow in a space.
There are three main parts to an HVAC system:
1. The furnace or air handler
2. The evaporator coil
3. The condenser
The furnace or air handler is usually located inside the home. This is the part of the system that blows warm or cool air into your home’s ductwork.
The evaporator coil is located inside the air handler. As the name suggests, this is the part of the system that actually evaporates or removes moisture from the air.
The condenser is located outside of the home. This part of the system helps to cool and compress the refrigerant so it can be sent back inside to the evaporator coil.
Now that we know the basics of an HVAC system let’s compare some of the different types available on the market.
Central Air Conditioning
One of the most popular types of air conditioning is central air conditioning. This is your standard AC system, and as the name suggests, this type of system cools the entire home.
Central air conditioning is an excellent option for people who want to cool their entire home simultaneously. It’s also a good choice for people with allergies or respiratory problems because it filters and circulates the air in the house. It can also heat your home in the winter using electric resistance heating or a gas furnace.
One of the drawbacks of central air conditioning is that it can be expensive to install. It also requires a lot of maintenance and can be noisy.
Heat Pumps
A heat pump is a device that transfers heat energy from one place to another. It heats a home or office by taking heat energy from outside and transferring it indoors. When used in reverse, it cools a space by taking heat energy from inside and transferring it outdoors.
Pros of a heat pump:
Cons of a heat pump:
It is not as effective in freezing climates
It is expensive to install
Types Of Heat Pumps
Air-source and ground-source heat pumps are the two primary kinds of heat pumps. Air-source heat pumps transfer heat energy between your home and the outside air.
Ground-source heat pumps transfer heat energy between your home and the ground. Both can heat and cool your space.
Ground-source heat pumps are more efficient than air-source heat pumps and can be used in all climates. However, they are also more expensive to install.
Comparison of Different HVAC Systems
Heat pumps and conventional air conditioners operate on the same principles to maintain interior room temperatures. A compressor is used to compress refrigerant in both systems. Within the compressor, gas is compressed, raising its temperature significantly.
The condensing coil draws the warmed gas, which is now at room temperature. As the gas enters the evaporator, it expands, causing its temperature to drop. A blower then moves the cooled air through the ductwork and into the home.
The main difference between the two systems is how they generate heat. Air conditioners generate heat by using electricity to run the compressor and condensing coil. On the other hand, heat pumps use a heat exchanger to transfer heat from the air, water, or ground outside the home.
Heat pumps are more energy-efficient than air conditioners because they don’t generate heat; they simply transfer it. Heat pumps extract heat from the air and move it inside in the winter. In the summer, heat pumps extract heat from inside the home and transfer it outside.
Air conditioners are less expensive to install than heat pumps. Heat pumps are a good choice for people who want to save money on their energy bills. They are also a good choice for people who live in cold climates because they can be used to heat a home as well as cool it.
Ductless Air Conditioning
Ductless air conditioning is another popular type of air conditioning. Unlike central air conditioning, ductless air conditioners don’t require ductwork.
These ductless mini-split systems are an excellent option for people who want to cool specific areas of their homes. They’re also a good choice for people who want to save money on their energy bills because they’re more energy-efficient than central air conditioners.
One of the drawbacks of ductless air conditioning is that it can be expensive to install. It’s also important to note that ductless air conditioners don’t work well in large spaces.
Ready to Order a New HVAC System?
Heat pumps, standard AC systems, and ductless mini systems are all viable options for your home or office. It’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of each system to figure out which one is best for you.
If you need help deciding, contact King Heating Cooling and Plumbing Services. We will walk you through your options in Chicago and provide expert installation and maintenance to keep your HVAC systems running all year long. Put in your service request today.