If you’re in the market for a new HVAC system, you might wonder what four 4 main types of systems there are. This article will cover the pros and cons of each one so you can choose which is best for your home or business.
Packaged systems have all significant components in one outdoor unit. They can cool and heat with gas or electricity.
Split System
A standard HVAC split system is an all-in-one solution that heats and cools your home. A compressor unit is outdoors, while an indoor cabinet holds an evaporator coil and air handler to distribute cool air. The evaporator coil is connected to a refrigerant line set that moves cooled refrigerant through the ductwork and into your home. This type of HVAC system is best suited for new construction or remodeling projects that do not already have existing ductwork.
These systems may include a gas furnace, providing extra heat in moderate climates when a heat pump falls short. This combo is a hybrid heat system, offering the best of both worlds. These HVAC systems use traditional ducts and thermostats but can switch between gas and electrical heat for efficiency.
Split system units vary in size, cooling one room or whole homes. This suits apartments and rentals, more affordable than central AC.
When picking a split system, choose a skilled contractor to assess your home’s needs. They should use recognized methods like ACCA’s Manual J or Manual D for ductwork to evaluate room-by-room requirements. If they fail to do so, you may end up with a poorly sized system that wastes energy and money. A poorly sized HVAC system can also reduce lifespan, increasing operating and maintenance costs.
In addition to cooling, split system units can provide additional benefits, such as reduced noise and a lower utility bill. They are less invasive for remodeling projects, as the piping is smaller than with a Rooftop Packaged Unit. These units are also quieter than packaged systems, making them a great choice for families who want to enjoy peace and quiet.
Packaged System
Most people understand their HVAC’s crucial role: it maintains comfort by cooling or heating. Whether through ductless, split, or packaged units, it must extract heat and humidity, using ducts to circulate air at home. Packaged systems excel due to consolidated components in one cabinet. This saves space and eases maintenance access, suiting those with limited indoor space or who prefer minimal indoor equipment like boilers.
An added perk of packaged systems is roof installation, preserving indoor space. This suits apartments or basement-free homes. Yet, exposure to elements requires robust protection from water and debris, such as leaves or grass clippings.
In addition, the fact that all of the equipment is housed outside makes the system quieter than its split counterparts. This is because all the noise comes from a single location instead of multiple locations with a traditional split system. A final benefit of packaged systems is their compatibility with zoned heating and cooling. This permits selective temperature control, lowering energy expenses by conditioning specific home areas separately.
Finally, installing a packaged system is usually faster and less expensive than a split system. This is because the parts are all assembled at the factory, making them a ready-to-go system upon delivery.
Ductless System
Ductless systems (also known as mini splits) are a good choice for homes that don’t have air ducts or for new home construction. They consist of indoor wall-mounted units that connect to an outdoor compressor through a small hole in the wall. This allows for more independent control of each house or building area. They are popular for hotels and venues that allow guests to choose their own temperature, but they’re also a good option for homes that need to add an extra room or garage to the existing property.
Ductless systems trump conventional central air in energy efficiency, leading to substantial cost and time savings. They achieve this by cooling specific spaces rather than the entire structure, lowering energy consumption. Furthermore, they effectively mitigate humidity.
Flexibility is another highlight of ductless systems. They can be set up anywhere, even in attics or crawl spaces, benefiting homes lacking room or funds for duct installation. Moreover, their installation is simpler than ducted systems, avoiding wall removal or intricate ductwork. For those seeking convenience, ductless systems excel as they provide both heating and cooling. This eliminates the need for switching between window AC units and space heaters. Installing a ductless system ensures precise room temperatures in every part of the house.
To enhance a ductless system, consider integrating a zoned heating and cooling setup. Zoned systems utilize manual or automatic dampers in air ducts to adjust airflow across zones. Bedrooms can be cooler for better sleep while living areas and offices remain comfortable. This boosts energy efficiency by directing conditioned air where needed and away from unnecessary zones.
Hybrid System
The hybrid system is an excellent option for people looking to save energy. The system uses gas and electricity to power the air conditioning and heater. It also has a multistage system that can provide more heating and cooling control. This way, you can reduce your utility bills by lowering the temperature when it’s unnecessary. This is especially useful in the summer when temperatures can get high.
The HVAC system holds vital importance for homes and businesses, ensuring comfortable indoor temperatures that promote respiratory health and prevent other ailments. Additionally, it contributes to environmental cleanliness by eliminating airborne pollutants and toxins.
Diverse HVAC systems fall under four main categories: heating equipment, ventilation equipment, air distribution systems, and refrigeration systems. These systems can be grouped as central or local, with central HVAC situated in separate equipment rooms and local HVAC integrated within or near buildings. Among these, the split system is highly favored, boasting both indoor and outdoor units. Common in homes and small businesses, split systems deliver several advantages. They’re straightforward to install and maintain and available in various sizes for diverse spaces.
Another type of HVAC system is the ducted system, typically found in larger commercial buildings or apartment complexes. This system has ducts connected to the air conditioning and heating units, allowing them to control multiple rooms simultaneously. This type of system is difficult to repair or replace, but it offers many benefits for business owners.
Lastly, zoning system excel in residences or apartments needing precise heating and cooling control. By employing dampers in ducts, these systems regulate airflow to distinct zones. For instance, if your child is away, you can lower their room temperature to the rest of the home. This slashes energy expenses while ensuring your child’s comfort.
