ARLINGTON, Texas — Replacing a heating or cooling system can be overwhelming — especially when you’ve never purchased one before. And customers can get lost and confused in all the HVAC language. Here’s a quick overview that might help you explain it to them:
Equipment type
There are four types of systems: split system, heat pump, ductless mini-split, or packaged heating/cooling system.
o Split System: Split-system central air conditioning is a popular residential cooling and heating choice. If they already have a furnace, it is inexpensive and efficient to install. A split system includes an outdoor unit with a compressor and condenser and an indoor unit with an evaporator coil and blower. Indoor units are often connected to a furnace or heat pump.
o Heat Pump: This system does double duty—heating and cooling of an indoor space. It pulls heat from the outside air into the home in winter. Then, in the summer, it pushes warm air out of the home to create cool relief.
o Ductless Mini-Split: This system is ideal when the home lacks ductwork. It is installed directly in the area of the home where it’s needed. A ductless mini-split also is a smart choice when needing to complement an existing ducted system.
o Packaged Heating/Cooling System: This system makes sense when the home lacks sufficient space for all of the components of a split system. It includes the compressor, condenser, and evaporator all in one unit and is often installed on the roof or near the foundation.
SEER or HSPF rating
The efficiency of an air conditioner is measured by its Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio or SEER. Its Heating Seasonal Performance Factor or HSPF measures the efficiency of a heat pump’s heating system. In both cases, the higher the number, the greater the unit’s efficiency.
Unit size
Residential units typically range between 3 tons and 5 tons. As a contractor, you should be able to recommend the size that is best for the customer’s heating and cooling needs.
Installation process
An air handler could be installed several ways, including horizontally in the attic or with an upflow in a closet. Again, as a contractor, you should be able to recommend the best solution
Installation quality
Even if a customer buys the best system on the market, it won’t operate as efficiently as it should if it’s not installed by qualified technicians who know exactly what they’re doing. Make sure your technicians are properly trained and have the skills and experience to get the job done right.
Content provided by Texas Air Authorities. The company serves homes and businesses in the Arlington, Texas, area. Texas Air Authorities is proud to be a family-owned and family-operated company with roots that have run deep in the heart of Texas for nearly 20 years.
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