If you’re considering a new HVAC system for your upscale home, you probably want to look at an energy efficient HVAC system, but may be concerned that the higher upfront costs might outweigh the benefits of an upgraded system. An energy efficient HVAC system won’t only save you money on utility bills; it will also boost the comfort level in your home.
Let’s explore how you can reap benefits by the installation of an energy efficient HVAC system.
Get energy efficient HVAC system design based on load calculations
Size does matter when formulating an energy efficient HVAC system design. The first step in the process is to accurately determine load calculations to design a properly-sized energy efficient HVAC system. An oversized system will cost you more when purchased and will also increase your energy and maintenance costs.
Learn more: Sizing HVAC Systems: Why Bigger Is Not Always Better
Most reputable HVAC contractors, like Arista Air, use computer software programs for cooling load calculations. The cooling load calculation involves two factors: the temperature of the air and the moisture in the air. Performing a room-by-room cooling load calculation is a sensible approach when designing an energy efficient HVAC system. Room-by-room calculations are preferable because the unique features of each room, such as west-facing and the number of windows, are taken into consideration.
Understand energy efficient HVAC system ratings
The Seasonal HVAC Energy Efficiency Rating (SEER) computes the energy efficiency of cooling equipment based on a seasonal average rather than specific conditions. The U.S. Department of Energy requires a minimum SEER of 13 for all new systems in the northern U.S. The latest top efficiency systems have SEER ratings topping out between 20 and 28. For those who intend on embracing green energy HVAC upgrades, by increasing from a SEER 10 to 13, you will reduce your power consumption by 30-percent.
If you live in the NYC area in a 2,000 square-foot home and your AC equipment size is 3 tons (36,000 BTU) and you replace a SEER 9 unit with a SEER 15, you can save $295 annually on air conditioning energy consumption. Calculate your own potential savings here.
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Understanding Air Conditioning HVAC Energy Efficiency Ratings
The method for measuring the HVAC energy efficiency for a heating unit is known as its Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE). Simply put, the AFUE calculates how much of the fossil fuel consumed by the heater is converted to heat for your home. Modern energy efficient HVAC products have AFUE ratings as high as 98-percent, which means 98-percent of the fuel burned by your furnace converts to heat for your home.
By upgrading from a single speed furnace with an AFUE rating of 70 to a variable speed furnace with an AFUE rating of 95, HVACOPCOST.COM estimates you can save $1035 on heat annually.
Elevate comfort levels with an energy efficient HVAC system
One type of energy efficient HVAC system, the VRF system, provides an added benefit: it promotes comfort and can address different heating and cooling needs within your home. VRF systems are capable of supplying heat and cooling and can do both simultaneously to various locations in the same building.
Instead of a large noisy central unit, a VRF system contains multiple indoor units (small air handlers) with individual controls. The VRF is an energy efficient HVAC system because its variable speed compressor only runs at the capacity needed for current conditions. While you might need cooler temperature when working out on an elliptical, a baby in a nursey may require a toasty environment, so you can achieve both cooling and heating needs under the same roof.
Besides being an energy efficient HVAC system, the VRF is a quiet system. You won’t hear loud fans blowing with a VRF system or the disquieting sounds of the system cycling on and off. VRF systems are an excellent choice if you are concerned about an obtrusive unit interfering with your interior design scheme. The VRF system’s handlers are relatively small and can fit into your room inconspicuously.
Learn more: Luxury HVAC for Luxury Residences: Why You Need VRF Technology
Add a smart thermostat to your energy efficient HVAC system
There’s no doubt that an energy efficient HVAC system can save you money on your energy bills. You can further ramp up the energy savings and reduce your expenses by installing a smart thermostat instead of a traditional model.
Smart thermostats, known as a Wi-Fi thermostats or digital and wireless thermostats, have remote connectivity, which allows you to adjust temperatures while you’re away from home. These cutting-edge devices contain sensors that control the heating and cooling systems. Wi-Fi thermostats allow you the numerous options that a standard thermostat doesn’t provide. For instance, you can program temperatures for different times of the day or for when you’re away from home or for when you return.
Learn more: What’s New With Smart Home Thermostat Technology
Maintain an energy efficient HVAC system with routine maintenance
If you’re wondering what is the most energy efficient HVAC system for you, the experts at Arista will be happy to review your specific needs and explain the options.
You can get started right now by checking out our free guide: The Ultimate Guide to Air Conditioning for NYC Luxury Residential Spaces.
After you’ve selected an energy efficient HVAC system, there is an equally critical HVAC matter to consider: preventative maintenance.
All your good and practical intentions of gaining energy efficiency and saving on energy bills will go out the window if you overlook preventative maintenance. Your system might be working, but imperceptible problems like dirty coils could lower your system’s efficiency.