The Benefits of an HVAC System Vs. Heat Pump for Your Home

June 14, 2023

Choosing an HVAC system for your Boerne, TX, home is anything but simple. There are so many options and numerous terms you need to understand to make sense of everything. Whether moving into a new home or replacing an existing HVAC system, here’s what you should know about central heating and cooling systems.

Heat Pumps for Efficient Heating and Cooling

The main advantage of heat pumps is that they provide heating and cooling for year-round comfort. These systems are ideal for the local area since temperatures range from 90 degrees in the summer to 61 degrees in the winter. Unlike other heating systems that primarily use gas, the majority of heat pumps run on electricity alone, so they’re very efficient.

Air-source heat pumps deliver two units of heat for every dollar spent on energy. Homeowners in areas with harsh winter weather may require supplemental heating from an electric-resistance heat strip or gas furnace. However, this is generally not the case in Boerne or San Antonio, TX. These systems are more than adequate for most homes and commercial properties in the area.

Types of Residential AC Systems

Homeowners who don’t have heat pumps must rely on separate heating and cooling systems. For example, many homes have a stand-alone air conditioner paired with a gas furnace. Both parts of the system use the same air-handling equipment to distribute heating and cooling throughout various living spaces. Since air conditioners don’t run year-round, they might last slightly longer. Additionally, it may be easier to replace individual parts in the event of a mechanical problem.

HVAC systems are often classified according to the way that the major components, including the compressor and evaporator coils, are configured. Here are a few of the most popular options.

Split AC systems feature an outdoor compressor that is joined to an indoor air handler and evaporator coil. The air handler, or indoor unit, is typically placed in a garage, attic, closet, or utility room.
With packaged units, all the mechanical equipment is installed outside your home, which saves space. They come in a wide range of sizes and are used in residential and commercial installations.
Ductless systems, also called mini-splits, can provide heating and cooling or air conditioning only. They’re similar to traditional split systems, but one compressor can power multiple air handlers. This way, you can set different temperatures in each zone.

Getting the Best Performance from Your HVAC Equipment

Getting optimal performance from your HVAC equipment doesn’t just depend on the type of air conditioner you select. There are a variety of other considerations.

Efficiency ratings show you how much heating or cooling the system delivers in relation to the amount of energy used. Seasonal energy efficiency ratio 2 (SEER2) measures the system’s cooling performance. Heating performance is measured by the system’s heating seasonal performance factor 2 (HSPF2).
Sizing is important for efficiency and humidity control. Oversized systems cool the air too quickly without removing enough humidity. Undersized systems run longer and may struggle to keep your home comfortable during highs and lows each season.
Preventive maintenance is critical for ensuring your system’s reliability. For the best results, have your air conditioner and heater serviced biannually in the spring and fall. You can do your part by replacing or cleaning the air filters and keeping the system clean.

For optimal performance, central heating and cooling systems need to have properly sized, fully sealed ductwork. Maintaining this part of your AC system can improve your home’s air quality and energy efficiency.

Need Help Choosing an HVAC System? Get Personalized Advice!

A stand-alone AC system might be right for you if you want to heat your home with natural gas or another heating fuel. Otherwise, a heat pump can do the work of a furnace and an AC to help you keep up with the summer highs and winter lows while spending less on energy. For personalized advice about your HVAC installation or replacement, contact Climate Control Heating & Air today.

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