Air Conditioning Repair in Redding, CA from Integrity HVAC

5 Tips for Choosing the Perfect Heating and Air Conditioning

Learning Air Conditioning RepairSo, you have decided to renovate your home, or build a new one, and you are in the market for a new heating and air conditioning system. With so many terms, brands, and fuel sources, this task can be daunting to the average homeowner. However, a little education and a good contractor can make a world of difference in saving you money now and in the long run. Here are five tips for choosing the right HVAC system for your home.

Size of your home

The purpose of a heating and air conditioning system is to maintain temperature and humidity. If your HVAC system is too small it will run constantly in order to keep up with your temperature demands. On the other hand, a too-large system will not run long enough to keep humidity levels in check. The first step to choosing an appropriately-sized heating and air conditioning system for your home is to know the square-footage. Industry leaders recommend an average of 20 BTUs per square foot in temperate climates.

Regional climate

The location of your new home should be considered when choosing a type of HVAC system. In the cold northeast, most homes still rely on fuel-oil boilers. Homeowners in the humid southeast often use a desiccant enhanced evaporative air conditioner that approach the dew point of the ambient air without adding humidity. Residents living in areas of moderate temperature fluctuations usually opt for heat pump systems. The most efficient heating and air conditioning option for new construction uses radiant heat.

Available fuel sources

Urban communities are often supplied with a local utility company that provides the energy sources needed for homes. While most believe that natural gas is a good HVAC fuel source, it may not be available in your area. To avoid rising electric utility costs, the installation of a kerosene or propane system may be a good option for newly constructed homes.

Tax credits

The IRS created tax credits for independently certified Energy Star products protect the environment while saving you money. These products use up to 30 percent less energy and homeowners can receive a 30 percent federal tax credit for purchasing them. New construction and existing homes, whether they are principal residences or second homes, qualify for these credits.

Rebates

If your heating and cooling systems are outdated, they may not be operating efficiently. Replacing your system with energy efficient equipment can not only save you money on energy costs. Many natural gas distributors, such as PG&E, offer rebates for energy efficient heating and air conditioning appliances. Many government agencies and and other utility companies also offer a variety of incentives to support energy efficiency. Rebates are known to support energy conservation, lessen pollution, and encourage the use of renewable energy sources.

Buying a unit that’s too small will leave you uncomfortable for most of the year, while purchasing a unit that’s too large wastes money in the initial purchase and efficiency through the lifespan of the unit. When building a new home, it is important to consider the region in which you will live, the size of your home and available fuel sources. Choosing the right heating and air conditioning system for your new home will also save you money is several different ways.