Did you know there were different types of HVACs or heating ventilation air conditioning units? Depending on your house and your space, there may be a better option for you. Different systems have different strengths and weakness. If you have a smaller home that may not have room for multiple units or a duct system, there still great option for heating and cooling your home! Learn more about HVAC systems, they different types available, and what will best suit your needs before you invest in a pricey unit.
1. Heating and Air Conditioning Split System
This is the most popular type of residential heating and air conditioning. A split system is an outdoor unit that is made up of a condenser and compressor, and an indoor unit made of an evaporator coil and blower, often connected to a furnace. You can also have a furnace with no air conditioner, if this is the case then a split-system is the most efficient and cheapest to install.
Split systems typically have a refrigerant that uses a series of pipes to circulate to and from the indoor and outdoor units. This system also usually has ducts that carry air throughout the structure being heated or air conditioned. There is also a thermostat involved, allowing you to control the target temperature.
2. Hybrid Heat Pump System
A hybrid heating and cooling system uses a heat pump in conjunction with a furnace. The heat pump used is powered by electricity and burns natural gas, propane, or fuel oil. This once device both heats and cools your home. It uses a heat pump to heat and cool refrigerant. Ducts are also used to circulate air throughout a structure. A hybrid system will also have a thermostat to control temperature.
The hybrid is an energy (and money saving option) as it is one unit that functions as a heater in the winter and an air conditioner in the summer. However, one downside is that when temperatures dip below 40 degrees, it is not as efficient.
3. Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump
Duct free HVAC systems are a good option for spaces where ducts may not be doable. These mini-split unites are installed in areas of the home that need heating and cooling directly. Without ducts to circulate the air, it will not reach all areas of the home or building equally. You can install up to four indoor units for each outdoor unit you have. The ductless unit involved a heating pump with a compressor, condenser, and fan, and a thermostat or control panel.
4. Packaged Heating and Air Conditioning System
Packaged heating HVAC systems contain a compressor, condenser, and evaporator in the same unit, which is usually located on the roof or near the foundation of the house. Because it’s just one unit, it can save on space. It includes an air conditioner and heat pump together with an evaporator and fan coil, and a thermostat. Some units also have air quality improvers.
