A heating and cooling system has an average life expectancy of 10 to 25 years, but it still depends on the type of system and several contributing factors. Although you take care of your HVAC unit by keeping up with its maintenance and repairs, you will have to change it eventually when it stops functioning properly.
Since an HVAC unit can last more than a decade, replacing your old system with a new one does not happen often. Therefore, many homeowners don’t know much about HVAC system installation. Here are factors you need to consider when installing a new heating and cooling unit for your home.
Pick Which HVAC System Suits Your Home
You may not be familiar with HVAC units in general, but it is crucial for you to give some thought to the type of system you want to install for your residential property. Since each HVAC system comes in different sizes, costs, and specifications, learn the benefits and disadvantages of each type to know the ideal unit to pick. Here are the four types of HVAC systems you can choose from to put in your home:
1. Heating and Cooling Split System
As the most affordable type of HVAC unit, the heating and cooling split system is also the most popular among homeowners. It is also the most widely used because little or no modification is done to the home’s existing ductwork when the HVAC unit is installed.
This system type is split into two, one for heating and the other for cooling. The cooling system is placed outside and uses compressors, refrigerants, and coils to produce cool air. For the heating unit, it uses gas to make hot air, and it is typically placed in the basement.
2. Hybrid Split System
It is similar to the split systems, with the main difference being that it has a hybrid heating system. It can switch between using gas and electricity, which can help lower energy consumption. Like the other split systems, this particular type also uses traditional ducts and thermostats.
3. Ductless Mini-Split System
The ductless mini-split unit has two main parts: an indoor air-handling unit and an outdoor compressor or condenser unit. This system type is an excellent choice to install in individual small rooms and small apartments. The mini-split air conditioner is also easy to install than other HVAC types because of its small size. Because this system is ductless, mini-splits avoid the energy loss of about 30%, which happens to HVAC systems with ductwork.
4. Packaged HVAC System
The compact size of a packaged HVAC system makes it ideal for installation in small houses. Included in a single unit are the compressor, condenser, and evaporator. Easy maintenance and great efficiency are the excellent features of this system type.
Choose the Ideal Location To Install Your HVAC Unit
After choosing the type of HVAC unit for your home, have an HVAC technician conduct a site evaluation before the installation. After the assessment, they can recommend the best place to install your HVAC system. They can figure out where to place the ducts, thermostats, compressors, furnaces, and other HVAC components. The HVAC experts can choose to place the unit where the old one was previously installed, or they can put the brand-new system in another suitable place.
Clear the Area for Installation
Once you have figured out where to place the HVAC unit, ensure that the installation site is cleared out. That way, property damage and accidents are minimal when the technicians work. Make sure the installers have access to the room, garage, attic, basement, storage space, or other areas of the house where the HVAC system installation will occur.
If there are HVAC parts that need to be installed outdoors, clear the vegetation in the surrounding area. For HVAC components like furnaces and air handlers placed indoors, remove objects that clutter the space for installation.
Reach Out to a Skilled HVAC Contractor
The quality of installation for your HVAC system also contributes to the lifespan of your unit. If your HVAC unit is installed incorrectly, its life expectancy can shorten. As a homeowner, you need to prepare when replacing your HVAC unit with a new one. Hire a professional HVAC technician in your area to avoid improper HVAC installation.
