When you’re choosing a new cooling and heating system for your home, you might be surprised at the array of choices available now, from basic HVAC systems to those with extensive features. The HVAC costs will depend on what you choose, but if you approach your selection with an eye toward meeting your long term goals, you can build on your investment one feature at a time.
The Basics
There’s a reason why smart HVAC systems and homes are getting so much press coverage. They save energy and in today’s energy climate, it’s more important than ever to conserve, both to help you save money and to reduce overall energy consumption. The best way to achieve lower energy use is to select a high efficiency HVAC system as the foundation and build on it as time goes by.
In this climate, look for an HVAC system that has a high SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) rating. The minimum starts at 14 and goes into the mid 20s. Each increase in the SEER indicates the system uses 10 percent less energy under laboratory testing conditions. While more efficient systems raise HVAC costs, the energy savings defray the extra expense.
The Upgrades
Over time, you can add features to the HVAC system that enhance the comfort and health of your home, like:
- A whole-house dehumidifier. Drier indoor air is healthier and feels cooler. Using a dedicated dehumidifier instead of the A/C uses less energy and gives you better humidity control all year long. During the warm months, you’ll save on cooling costs.
- Smart thermostats. Being able to manage your HVAC system remotely provides many benefits, and some smart thermostats take home management to a new level. Some sense room occupancy and adjust the temperature accordingly. You may be able to integrate a security system, home lighting, or your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms into the thermostat, as well.
In the HVAC industry, HVAC costs are related to the quality and features of the equipment. If you’d like more information, contact CCAC, providing HVAC services for Coastal Bend homeowners.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Corpus Christi, Texas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about your HVAC system, download our free Home Comfort Guide or call us at 361-678-2495.