Have you decided to start looking for a new HVAC unit? If so, then this article is specifically for you. We will cover everything you need to know about residential HVAC, from how they work, to the different types of units available and what maintenance needs to be done on them.
We will help answer any questions or concerns you might have about your current system or give some great insight into what type of system would be best suited for your home! Read on to learn more!
Definition of Residential HVAC Systems
Residential HVAC systems are heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems specifically designed for homes. They are typically much smaller in size than commercial or industrial HVAC systems.
Although there are many different types of residential HVAC systems in St. Louis, MO, they all have one common goal: to provide comfort for the people living in the home. This involves maintaining a comfortable temperature and humidity level and providing fresh air. Simply put, a residential HVAC system is what keeps you cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
Different Types of Residential HVAC Systems
If you're in the market for a new residential HVAC system in St. Louis, MO, consider that there are a few different types to choose from. They vary in terms of size, complexity, and price. They also provide different levels of comfort and efficiency.
The most common types of residential HVAC systems are:
Central Air Conditioning Systems
A central air conditioning system is the most popular residential HVAC system. It consists of one or more outdoor units connected to an indoor unit by copper tubing. The outdoor unit(s) pump refrigerant through the tubing and into the indoor unit, where it is then cooled and circulated throughout the home.
Central air conditioning systems can cool a whole house or just one room, depending on your needs. They also come in various sizes, so you can find one that's perfect for your home.
Heat Pumps
Heat pumps are residential HVAC systems that can heat and cool your home. It works by transferring heat from one place to another rather than generating it. This makes them much more efficient than traditional heating and cooling systems.
Heat pumps are an excellent choice for homes in mild climates, where the temperature doesn't vary too much throughout the year. They can also be used to supplement a central air conditioning system in colder climates.
Split Systems
For split systems, the outdoor and indoor units are separate. This makes them a good choice for homes with limited space. The outdoor unit is typically installed on the roof or in a backyard shed, while the indoor unit is mounted high on a wall inside the home.
Split systems are popular because they're efficient and easy to install. They also come in a variety of sizes to fit any home. Mostly, they're chosen because of their affordability.
Packaged Central Systems
Meanwhile, packaged central systems are a whole-house option. The outdoor and indoor units are combined into one unit mounted on the roof or in a backyard shed. This makes them easy to install and eliminates extra copper tubing.
Packaged central systems also come in various sizes, making them perfect for any home. They're popular because they're affordable and efficient, but they don't provide quite as much flexibility as split systems do.
Ductless Mini-Split Systems
Ductless mini-split systems are an excellent option for homes with ducts. The outdoor and indoor units are connected by a small copper tubing, which sends the cooled or heated air directly to the individual rooms in your home.
They're a popular choice because they're efficient and easy to install, but they can be more expensive than other types of residential HVAC systems. This is since they require special installation.
Geothermal Systems
Geothermal systems are a great option for homes that want to go “green.” They use the earth's natural heat and cooling to provide heating and cooling for your home. This makes them very efficient and environmentally friendly.
However, geothermal systems can be expensive to install, and they're not a good choice for every home. So, it's essential to do your research before deciding if this is the right option for you.
To sum it up...
So, those are a few of the most popular types of residential HVAC systems. There are many different options available, so it's essential to choose one that fits your needs and budget.
If you're not sure which system is right for you, contact a local HVAC contractor for help. They'll be able to assess your home and give you some recommendations based on your specific needs.
What Maintenance Is Required for Residential HVAC Systems?
One of the benefits of residential HVAC systems is that they don't require much maintenance. However, you can do a few things to keep them running efficiently.
1) Keep your air filters clean.
As a general rule, you should change your air filters every month. However, this may vary depending on the type of filter you have and the size of your home.
If you don't have time to change your filters yourself, many HVAC contractors offer a filter-change service. This ensures that your filters are always clean and that your system is running at its best.
2) Don't forget about cleaning your outdoor unit.
Remember, your outdoor unit needs to clear any debris, including leaves, snow, and ice. Make sure you keep it free of anything that could obstruct the airflow or cause damage to the unit.
If you have a garden nearby, consider putting up a fence or using landscaping features to block the view of the unit. This will help keep it clean and prevent any accidental damage.
3) Perform electrical assessments.
It's a good idea to have your home's electrical system assessed by a qualified electrician every few years. This will ensure that your HVAC system is running safely and efficiently.
If you're not sure if your home's electrical system can handle a new residential HVAC system, contact a local electrician for help. They'll be able to assess your home and give you some recommendations based on your specific needs.
4) Get a tune-up.
A professional HVAC contractor can give your system a tune-up every year to ensure that it's running efficiently and helping prevent any significant problems from occurring. This is a good way to avoid expensive repairs down the road.
Residential HVAC systems in St. Louis, MO are vital for any home. They provide comfort and convenience, and they're essential for keeping your family safe and healthy. So, it's important to choose the right system for your needs and make sure you maintain it properly. For more information, contact a local HVAC contractor today.
What Size Residential HVAC System Do I Need?
This question can be challenging to answer without first consulting with a contractor. However, as a general rule, you should size your system according to the square footage of your home.
For example, a typical 2000 square foot home system would be a two-ton system. However, this may vary depending on the climate and other factors.
Choosing the right size of a residential heating and cooling system is important to maximizing comfort, improving indoor air quality, extending equipment life and minimizing energy usage.
It's important to consult with a contractor to get an accurate estimate of the size of the system you need. They will consider things like the climate, your home's insulation, and the number of people who live in your home.
What Are the Common Signs of a Residential HVAC Problem?
If your HVAC system isn't working correctly, there are a few common signs to look for. Some of the most common symptoms of a problem with your residential HVAC system in St. Louis, MO include:
- Temperature inconsistency in different parts of your home
- Poor indoor air quality
- Odd noises from the unit
- Foul odor
- Uneven heating or cooling
- Excessive leaks on the indoor or outdoor unit
- Constant need for repair
If you notice any of these symptoms, it's important to contact a contractor right away. They can help diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action. If left neglected, a residential HVAC problem can lead to expensive repairs.
Contact A Reliable Residential HVAC Service Provider Today!
At Environmental Heating and Cooling, we have provided quality residential HVAC services in St. Louis, MO for years. We are a family-owned and operated business, and we take pride in our reputation for excellence. We offer various services, including installation, repair, and maintenance.
We also offer a wide range of products so that we can find the perfect system for your home. So if you're looking for a reliable residential HVAC service provider, contact us today!
We would be happy to help you choose the right system for your needs and provide you with quality service that you can trust. Contact us to learn more!