When it comes to heating or cooling your home, different types of HVAC units are used. Every HVAC system has different features, uses, and costs. Picking the right HVAC unit for your space is necessary to fulfill your needs.
We’ll explore different types of HVAC used in different spaces. From AC systems to heat pumps, we’ll break down the options to help you find the best fit for your needs and budget. The right HVAC unit can help you keep your home comfortable in every condition and save on energy bills. So, let’s delve in and understand which HVAC unit is best for your needs.
Understanding HVAC
HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. It helps to keep your indoors comfortable and cozy. An HVAC system works to heat your home in winter, cool it in summer, and provide proper ventilation. Different HVAC systems are used like furnaces, air conditioners, and heat pumps. Ventilation systems help bring in fresh air and remove moisture or pollutants. With an HVAC system, you can control the temperature and air quality in your home or building, making it easier to stay comfortable in every condition. Understanding how HVAC units work can help you choose the right system according to your needs.
Types of HVAC Units
Different types of HVAC units are used for different purposes. There are multiple types of cooling and heating systems used in homes and buildings that help people stay fresh indoors. Different systems are designed to suit various climates, energy needs, temperature needs, and space requirements.
Here we’ll discuss 6 best HVAC units, that are widely used to keep the spaces comfortable.
Electric Furnace/AC System
Cost: $6,000+
An electric furnace and air conditioning (AC) system is a popular choice for homes without access to gas lines. The electric-powered furnace heats the air with the use of electric coils and then distributes it in various spaces of the house. While the AC system cools the air with the use of refrigerant. This device works well in areas in which the electricity is good or fuel isn’t available. The Electric furnace may cost more to run in very cold climates. But it is environment friendly, reliable, and doesn’t produce emissions directly in the home.
Boiler/AC System
Cost: $9,500+
A boiler/AC system is common in older houses and homes, particularly in colder areas. Boilers heat water to create steam or hot water, which then warms up the home through radiators or underfloor pipes. For cooling, a separate AC unit is typically used. The boiler works well in extremely cold weather. Though boilers can be more expensive, they’re energy-efficient and offer cozy heat in various spaces in the house.
Furnace/Split AC System
Cost: $6,500+
A furnace and split AC system is a rather powerful preference for houses that need both heating and cooling. The furnace burns natural gas, propane, or oil to produce heat and distributes it through ducts. The split AC system also includes an outdoor compressor and an indoor unit to cool air. This combination gives reliable heating during winter and cooling during the summer season. It is perfect for regions with both hot and cold seasons. It’s a flexible device, while set up and renovation may be expensive due to separate heating and cooling units.
Heat Pump/Air Handler System
Cost: $7,000+
A heat pump and air handler system is a versatile option that gives both heating and cooling. Heat pumps work by shifting heat from outside to inside during winter and vice versa in the summer season. This makes them energy-efficient, specifically in moderate climates. The air handler system circulates the cozy or cool air in the home. This system is environment-friendly and might save on energy bills.
Mini Split Heat Pump
Cost: $8,000+
A mini split heat pump is a ductless system ideal for cooling or heating individual rooms. It consists of an outdoor compressor related to one or more indoor devices that may be positioned in different rooms. Each indoor unit has its own temperature control. This device is quiet, energy-efficient, and easy to install because it doesn’t require ducts. It’s a splendid choice for older homes without ductwork, small apartments, or for supplementing temperature control in specific rooms.
Geothermal Heat Pump
Cost: $18,000+
A geothermal heat pump device is one of the most energy-efficient HVAC units available. It makes use of the strong temperature of the floor to heat and cool the home by transferring heat to or from the earth through underground pipes. While the installation fee is more expensive than other units, geothermal heat pumps can lead to big electricity savings over time and have a long lifespan. This device is eco-friendly and works properly in numerous climates.
Exhaust System
Cost: $500+
An exhaust system is a ventilation HVAC unit. It is used to remove stale or polluted air from a space. It works by using fans to keep the indoor air outside. It can be used in kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. By pushing out the unwanted air, exhaust systems prevent spaces like mold, mildew, and lingering odors. A simple and effective exhaust system is needed to improve air quality and keep the spaces comfortable.
Conclusion
HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. It helps to keep your indoors comfortable and cozy. Various types of HVAC units are designed to fulfill different climate, temperature, and space needs. It is important to identify each HVAC unit and its cost to choose the best according to your space needs. It is also important to choose energy-efficient HVAC units to save on electricity bills.
FAQs
Q1. Types of HVAC systems for residential?
- Split System
- Ductless Mini-Split
- Packaged System
- Geothermal System
Q2. Types of HVAC systems for commercial buildings?
- Single-Split System
- Multi-Split System
- VRF (Variable Refrigerant Flow) / VRV (Variable Refrigerant Volume) System
Q3. Most energy-efficient HVAC unit?
A geothermal heat pump device is one of the most energy-efficient HVAC units available.