The Ultimate Guide to Home Heating & Cooling Systems
Want to know more about heating and cooling systems? Learn what they are, how they work, all about SEER ratings, and what you need to know about the cost of home heating and cooling systems, in our quick guide.
What Are Heating and Cooling Systems
Heating and cooling systems, also known as HVAC, is a system that controls the temperature via the circulation of the heated or cooled air through a space. Most HVACs use a furnace for
heating and an AC for cooling a space. All heating and cooling systems have three primary parts:
- A heating source
- Distribution system
- Control feature
Conversely, an air conditioner works by removing the heat and blowing cool air into a room. A refrigeration system extracts the heat from the room, as well.
Types of Heating & Air Conditioning Options
- Central Air Conditioners
- Air Source Heat Pumps
- Room Air Conditioners
- Furnaces
Maintenance Tips for Cooling and Heating Systems
Regular maintenance is crucial to reducing your heating and cooling costs by up to 10%. It is also a great way to extend the life of your equipment. Some simple ways to do this include:
- Do Check-Ups
- Read the Owner’s Manual
- Clean and Replace Filters Monthly
- Keep the Area Clean Around the Outdoor AC and Heat Pump
- Check Refrigerant Lines
- Pay Attention to Nosies and Odors
Understanding Efficiency Ratings for Heating & AC Units
Heating & AC systems are measured based on their Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating. SEER is the cooling output of the system divided by its power consumption as it cools during the hottest parts of the year.
Alternatively, there is also something called the Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) and it measures the instantaneous efficiency of the unit throughout the day. Central air conditioning systems are measured with both SEER and EER ratios.
Frequently Asked Questions about Heating and Cooling Systems
How much should a new heating and cooling system cost?
For an HVAC unit, you should expect to pay around $7,500 on average. It could be as low as $5,000, however. If you require ductwork, you could be looking at closer to $22,000 for replacement.
What is the most efficient heating and cooling system for a home?
Air-source heat pumps and mini-splits are the best heating and cooling systems for energy efficiency. They offer year-round comfort.
What is the best type of heating and cooling system?
An air-source heat pump is considered among the best type of heating and cooling systems. It is versatile and produces heat and cooling in a single unit.
How much is a HVAC system for a 2000 sq ft house?
For up to a 2,000 sq ft house, the average cost is $8,829 if you opt for an HVAC unit that combines both air conditioning and gas furnace.
Is it cheaper to replace the furnace and AC together?
If you need to replace a furnace and AC at one time, the cost will likely be in the $7,500 range but could go up to $15,000.