HVAC Systems – Important Features
You may already know that there are a number of factors you should consider when buying a new home. These include cabinets, floor treatments, plumbing fixtures, and countertops. Another feature you need to consider as they are one of the factors most people are dissatisfied about is the HVAC systems. To understand your heating and air conditioning system a lot better, here are the most important features of an HVAC system.
a. Refrigerant
In 2015, R-22 will be phased out and the ones left will have very expensive servicing, making it important to use the environmentally friendly R-410A.
b. Design and Ductwork
Making sure that the ducts are sized and balances allows you to live in a comfortable house. The most efficient ducts are externally insulated and round, while the worst are long runs of flexible ducts.
c. Efficiency
The minimum allowable efficiency for new HVAC systems is 13-SEER. The higher the SEER means the lower the electrical bills. Some HVAC systems are even rated 20-SEER, costing half as much as those with the current minimum limits.
d. Location of the Indoor Unit
Attic-mounted furnaces leak and damage the ceiling unless you take special precautions such as a drain line or condensate
pan. Closet-mounted ones are less prone to leaks and water damage. Also, they are easier to service.
e. Location of the outdoor unit
Avoid placing your HVAC units in places where it can be heard and seen such as outside a bedroom window. Also avoid placing them in areas where they can be easily damages such as under the edge of an un-guttered roof.
f. Filter Dryer
Installing a filter dryer extends the life of compressor by removing moisture and grit.
g. Balance Dampers
The worst place to adjust the amount of heat and cold is at the diffuser grille. Balance dampers should be balances by a professional contractor at a distance from the diffusers.
h. Condenser Coil Type
Aluminum and copper coils last longer and are more efficient.
i. Air-Filter Location.
Air filter should be located within your reach as they should be replaced every 3-4 months.
j. Return-Air Considerations
Each room should have an entering-air diffuser and a return-air diffuser.