HVAC systems (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) may use different methods for regulating indoor temperature, and knowing how different systems work can help you choose the one that’s best suited for your home and your particular needs.

Here’s a guide to choosing the best HVAC system that will make your home feel comfortable, safe and pleasant:

Split System:

“Split system” units have a portion of the unit installed in the exterior and a portion in the interior of the home, and the air conditioning unit is used in combination with a furnace. The outdoor portion of the unit generally contains a fan, condenser, and compressor, and the internal unit houses the fan and evaporator.

Split systems are fairly energy efficient, can be retrofitted to an existing furnace. This makes it an ideal choice if you already have a gas furnace installed in your home and are looking to upgrade to central air.

Split units are, however, more expensive because the HVAC installation must be done inside and outside of the home.

Hybrid Heat Split System:

Hybrid systems are structurally similar to split systems, with components housed indoors and out, but they give an option to use both an electric heat pump and a furnace. The heat pump is a much more energy-efficient alternative, all year round. They allow you to rely on electrical heating, and you can switch to gas on extremely cold days. While they are a great choice for homes in temperate climates, heat pumps are also great in warmer weather, since they help cool and dehumidify interiors.

Hybrid systems can also be manually operated to control the heating source. The challenge is the cost of domestic gas, which may be cheap now, but can and most likely will fluctuate. For maximum energy efficiency, switching to just heat pump might be a better option.

Ductless Split System:

While traditional HVAC systems use a network of ducts to spread heated or cooled air throughout your home, this system is efficient and ideal, especially in certain remote parts of your home (such as garage and additions). Ductless systems don’t rely on ducts but on a heat pump, so they don’t suffer from duct losses and are much more energy-efficient. Also, there are no vents or ducts to worry about; all the indoor components are mounted directly onto the walls, and less dust, pet hair, pollen, and other irritating substances are distributed through the air in your home.

In addition to lowered energy costs, ductless system also offers a more flexible alternative to traditional ducts, and can be more readily installed in a home, and they’re also safer since they’re combustion-free and won’t give off carbon monoxide.

Ductless systems will require more frequent maintenance and replacement since the heat pump’s components are working year-round.

Ductless Split Heating & Air Conditioning System

Ductless HVAC are modern, energy-efficient, ductless air conditioning and heating system. They are ideal for homeowners who experience a wide range of weather extremes, from deep snow and subzero temperatures, to the heat and humidity.

Ductless splits can give you total control of your family’s heating or cooling in a problem room, section of the house, or your whole home. These systems also greatly compliment existing ducted types of HVAC systems.

Packaged Heating & Air Conditioning System

Multiple components of the split systems may pose a challenge in some homes and offices without adequate spaces, and the good option would be a packaged heating and air conditioning system. Packaged HVAC systems will have all parts of both the AC and heating systems installed outdoors, saving you space. However, these systems are generally not as efficient as split system units

Other types of heating include Baseboard Heating, Radiant Heating, Geothermal, and Oil to Gas Conversion option.

HVAC also includes Duct sealing and insulating, air cleaners, humidifiers and other home air quality products.

Whichever HVAC system you choose, the primary goal is to provide acceptable thermo comforts and good quality indoor air in your home.

At UGI Heating, Cooling and Plumbing, our comfort advisors are here to guide you with upgrading or replacing your current system, and offer energy efficient options that fit your specific needs.

Our exceptional team of technicians takes a lot of pride in making sure your home heating and cooling system is always running properly and efficiently, keeping your family warm and secure all year long.

Contact us today for more information on HVAC systems, HVAC installation and HVAC contractors in your area.