Choosing the right HVAC system for your Las Vegas home is a big decision. It’s about more than just keeping your house comfortable. You want to select a system that can make a difference in your energy bills, home value, and even the environment.
Whether you’re upgrading an older system or starting from scratch in a new home, this is what you need to know to find the right heater or air conditioning system to install for your smaller residence.
Types of HVAC Systems
Before you find a system for your small home, you may want to know what options are out there. There are several types of HVAC systems to consider. Each one offers something a little different.
Split Systems
Split systems are the most popular. These have an outdoor unit for cooling and an indoor unit for heating, like a furnace or an air handler. They are known for being efficient and versatile, but they do require ductwork.
Packaged Systems
Another option is packaged systems. These combine heating and cooling into a single outdoor unit. They are great for homes that don’t have a lot of indoor space for equipment. However, they are not quite as energy-efficient as split systems.
Ductless Mini-Splits
If your home doesn’t have ductwork or you’re looking to cool specific rooms, a ductless mini-split system might be your best bet. These systems use individual indoor units to heat or cool specific zones in your home. They’re efficient and offer flexibility. On the downside, they tend to cost more up-front.
Zoned Systems
These let you control the temperature in different parts of your home individually. These systems are ideal if your family has different comfort preferences or if certain areas of your home need more heating or cooling than others. While they are convenient, they can be a bit pricier to install because they require additional components.
What to Consider When Choosing an HVAC System
There are a few things to consider when installing a heating system or AC for a smaller home. Unfortunately, there are no one-size-fits-all options. However, these factors can help you narrow down your list to get the right HVAC for your space.
Home Size
Your system needs the right size to keep you comfortable throughout the year. A system that’s too small will not be able to keep up with your heating or cooling needs. On the flip side, a system that’s too large will waste energy and could wear out faster.
You want to have a professional perform a load calculation to get the size right. This process will account for your home’s square footage, insulation, number of windows, and the local climate to determine what you need.
Energy Efficiency
Choosing a system with a high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating for cooling or a high AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) rating for heating can save you a lot of money on energy bills over time. If you are not sure where to start, look for systems with ENERGY STAR certification. These systems meet strict energy efficiency guidelines. Plus, they are often eligible for rebates or tax incentives.
While it might be tempting to go for the cheapest option up-front, remember that an energy-efficient system can save you a lot of money on utility bills over time. For example, a system with a high SEER rating might cost more but will more than make up for it in terms of energy savings.
Local Climate
Since Las Vegas is in a warm climate, you will want a system that prioritizes efficient cooling to handle the scorching summers. For those chilly desert nights, a furnace or a heat pump with supplemental heating is a solid option. A hybrid system can offer year-round comfort without breaking the bank on energy costs.
Existing Ductwork and Insulation
The condition of your ductwork and insulation is something else to keep in mind. If your home already has ductwork, it should be inspected for leaks or other issues that could reduce the efficiency of your new system. A ductless mini-split system could be a good alternative if your ductwork is not in great shape.
Let’s not forget about insulation. A well-insulated home will help your HVAC system perform better by keeping the heated or cooled air where it belongs. A ductless mini-split system could be an option if your home has poor insulation. Since you can control the temperature of each room, you don’t need to rely on it to cool or heat your entire house.
Long-Term Cost Considerations
You will also want to factor in installation costs. These can vary based on the system’s complexity and whether additional work is needed, such as installing new ductwork. Even the best HVAC system will not perform well if installed incorrectly.
Hiring a licensed and experienced professional is important for the job. A good company will make sure that your system is installed to match your home’s specific requirements and can help you choose the right one. They will also be able to walk you through maintenance tips, like how often to replace filters and when to schedule professional tune-ups.
Regular maintenance is another expense to keep in mind. Systems like ductless mini-splits require less maintenance, while more complex setups like hybrid systems might need more attention. Most systems need professional maintenance at least once a year. These tune-ups can catch potential problems early, saving you from expensive repairs.
Financing Options
If cost is a concern, you might want to explore financing options or look into rebates and tax incentives for energy-efficient systems. These programs can make a big difference in reducing the up-front cost of your new HVAC system.
Comfort and Air Quality
An HVAC system does more than just regulate the temperature in your home. It also affects your indoor air quality. Air purifiers, dehumidifiers, and advanced filters can help remove allergens, dust, and moisture from the air. In turn, they can create a healthier environment for your family. For example, a system with a built-in dehumidifier can make a huge difference in your comfort if you live in a humid area. On the other hand, homes in a dry climate like ours might benefit from a system with a humidification feature.
Noise of the System
Noise levels are another factor to consider. Modern HVAC systems are much quieter than older models. However, you might want to check the decibel ratings if noise is a concern. You can also think about where the outdoor unit will be placed. Installing it away from bedrooms or other quiet areas can minimize disruptions.
When it comes time to find the right system for your home, we have you covered. Since 1998, Polar Air & Heating, Inc. has delivered exceptional HVAC services to Las Vegas and nearby communities. We offer routine maintenance, repairs, and installations for your heating and cooling systems. As an ENERGY STAR-certified company, we specialize in helping you develop energy-efficient strategies that reduce energy usage and lower utility costs. If you are in the market for a new HVAC system, we are here to help. Contact us at Polar Air & Heating, Inc. today to schedule an in-home appointment.
