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If you’re considering a new AC system or it’s simply time to replace it, you may be wondering if it’s better to get central air conditioning or a new ductless system. The answer, of course, will depend on your personal situation. But don’t worry, we’ve listed the main factors to consider below, and once you’ve read them you should be able to figure it out pretty easily.
In case you don’t know, a ductless or mini split air conditioning system is a lot like a central air conditioner system. They both consist of two units: a condenser that sits outside the home, and an evaporator/air handler that sits inside the home. Coolant passes between the two units, carrying the heat from indoors to the outdoor unit where it is released.
With a central air system, however, the cool air is sent through the air handler on your furnace into the your ductwork, where it is carried into the rest of the house. A ductless system uses slim line-set and cable between the condenser and a unit on your wall, and no ductwork is involved.
Here are some questions we ask our customers to help them decide which type is the best match for their home and needs.
This is the main decision maker for most people. If you have ductwork in your home already, it will be more cost effective to stay with a central system.
If you have no ductwork, it will cost much less to install a ductless system. There will also be much less construction mess: all you need is a 3-inch hole in the wall to run the line-set and cable through. Ductless systems are also great for homes with new additions that aren’t connected to the ductwork that runs through the rest of the house.
When you’re indoors, a central AC is invisible. A ductless system, however, requires a vent in the ceiling or slim unit on the wall. While the manufacturers go to a lot of trouble to make the boxes as stylish as possible, there is still something to see.
If you’re very particular about your décor, a central system may be a better choice for you. But these homeowners found some pretty inventive ways of disguising them.
Most ductless systems just plain don’t have enough power to cool a large home. If you home is larger (2,500 square feet and up) go with central. From 2,000 – 2,500 square feet, the greater power of a central air system will pay off, and you’ll probably get better efficiency out of a central air system.
If your home is 2,000 square feet or less, consider ductless.
As a general rule, ductless systems are quieter. If noise levels matter to you, be sure to ask your technician for the noise level (in decibels) for any systems you’re considering. Some ductless systems are louder and some central systems are pretty quiet.
Now this is a bit of a loaded question, because with central air the quality of the ductwork and the installation job play a huge role in helping a central system reach its efficiency potential.
For example, if the ductwork wasn’t designed well (more twists and turns than needed) or if it isn’t sealed properly and air is leaking, the efficiency of a central system drops. In terms of installation quality, the technician has to do things like ensure the right level of refrigerant, a level surface for the outdoor unit, the system matches the air handler, etc.
All that being said, the best ductless systems have a higher potential energy efficiency (up to 27 SEER) than the best central systems (21 SEER).
If you have some areas of your home that get way hotter than others, or different family members who like different temperatures, a zoning system is the answer.
You can get zone control in both central or ductless, but it’s cheaper with ductless. This is because to get zoning control with a central air system, you need upgraded ductwork with internal dampers.
Some ductless systems aren’t just an air conditioner, they are what’s called a ‘heat pump’. That means when it gets cold outside it can reverse direction and bring warm air in (as long as it doesn’t drop below about -7° C).
This can be helpful if you want to use your furnace less, as heat pumps are incredibly efficient.
While this general guide should help get you started, it’s always best to talk to a heating and cooling professional to make sure you’re getting all the facts as they relate to your exact home.
Whichever system you’re leaning towards, we’ll make sure you get one that’s matched to your home size and will get you the level of comfort control you are looking for.
Heat pumps and furnaces heat your home – but in very different ways. Find out how and what’s right for you. When it comes to heating your home – you’ve got options. Unless you’re a seasoned pro (not likely) understanding how to choose between a heat pump or a furnace can feel overwhelming. Not to worry, here’s what you need to know to make the right choice.
Generally, the initial cost and installation of a gas furnace is cheaper than a heat pump. However, if your home requires cooling, a furnace will need to be matched with an air conditioner. A heat pump can do both. Altogether, your home comfort costs may be less with a heat pump. Of course, unit costs will vary depending on the size and model selected for both.
Heat pumps are more energy-efficient than furnaces because transferring heat is easier than making it. Under ideal conditions, a heat pump can transfer 300 percent more energy than it consumes. In contrast, a high-efficiency gas furnace is about 90 percent efficient. Heat pumps are powered by electricity, so you can save substantially on fuel consumption. It’s over 100% efficient in temperate climates and can serve as both a heater and an air conditioner.
Since heat pumps don’t use combustion, they don’t produce any harmful greenhouse gas emissions. This is becoming more and more important and some communities are even instituting local regulations insisting on lower-emission heat sources. Recent advancements have made many furnace models more energy efficient and lower their impact on the environment.
A gas furnace burns fuel so it can generate heat on the coldest days. If the outside air temperature routinely falls below freezing, a heat pump may have a hard time generating enough heat to keep your home warm. Supplemental systems are available to work in tandem with your heat pump and kick in on the coldest days. Unfortunately, these systems use a lot of energy – canceling out the energy efficient benefits if used too often.
The heat produced by gas furnaces feels hot and toasty compared to heat pump. In general, the air from a heat pump isn’t as hot as what you get from a gas furnace. It’s still warming your home, but it “blows cooler.” Some people don’t like that. In contrast to the hot and dry air of a furnace, heat pumps circulate air that’s naturally humid – so they won’t dry out your skin as much as the heat of furnace.
A gas-fired furnace generally has a longer lifespan than a heat pump. Furnaces with proper maintenance can last 20 years or more. A heat pump, like an air conditioner, more commonly has a lifespan of 15 years. Since a gas-operated furnace is only used for a few months out of each year, the maintenance requirements are less than those for a heat pump. A gas-fired furnace also has fewer mechanical parts than a heat pump, meaning fewer things that can break down or malfunction.
Understanding that every home and homeowner need is different, there are some general recommendations that can help you decide what heating source is right for you.
If your winters average around 30-40 degrees F, heat pumps are the perfect fit for your home. A climate like the Southeast that has milder winters works well for a heat pump. In addition, locations with low electric rates are prime candidates for heat pumps.
If your winters are bitterly cold and have temperatures consistently below freezing. Furnaces fare better in cold-weather climates because they don’t depend on the outdoor temperatures to convert to heat.
A heat pump, as part of a central heating and cooling system, uses the outside air to both heat a home in winter and cool it in summer. Basically, that means your heat pump will act as an air conditioner when things get hot and a heater when it’s cold outside – making heat pumps one versatile product. In addition to its flexibility, heat pumps are also energy-efficient. Think of a heat pump as a heat transporter constantly moving warm air from one place to another, to where it’s needed or not needed, depending on the season. In the winter, the pump extracts heat from the outdoor air or ground and distributes it to your home. In the summer, hot air from inside your home is removed – creating a cooler indoor environment.
A furnace, as part of a central heating and cooling system, burns fuel and distributes it throughout the house. All furnaces consist of four main components: 1) burners that deliver and burn fuel, 2) heat exchangers, 3) a blower and 4) a flue that acts as an exhaust for gaseous by-products. Depending on your situation, region and needs, you can choose from heating systems running on either gas or oil as fuel, or a hybrid packaged system that can use both fuel types.
Your furnace is an important part of keeping your home comfortable during the winter months, so choosing a reliable HVAC company is an important decision. At Hi Tech Central Air Conditioning & Heating Services.. Hi Tech Central Air Conditioning & Heating Services., we’ve been offering furnace services to those in Queens and the rest of Brooklyn County for over 35 years.
We offer:
So when you need service for your gas, oil, or electric furnace, call the experts at Hi Tech Central Air Conditioning & Heating Services.. Hi Tech Central Air Conditioning & Heating Services. at (718) 577-7875.
Are you building a new home or installing a furnace for the first time? There are so many options when it comes to choosing a furnace—from the energy efficiency to the size and price—so you need to know what you’re looking for! At Hi Tech Central Air Conditioning & Heating Services.. Hi Tech Central Air Conditioning & Heating Services., we can help you select a furnace that is right for your home and your budget and provide you with a quality installation. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!
Is your furnace starting to show signs of aging? Do you find yourself needing furnace repairs more than once every season? Furnaces are generally pretty reliable, but after about 10 – 15 years, they start to naturally reach the end of their lives. That’s why you have Hi Tech Central Air Conditioning & Heating Services.. Hi Tech Central Air Conditioning & Heating Services.! We can help you choose a new furnace and replace it reliably and efficiently. Call today to schedule furnace replacement in Brooklyn County!
There’s nothing more frustrating than when something doesn’t work the way it’s supposed to—or at all! If your furnace is on the fritz, it’s important that it’s fixed ASAP. Our team is trained on how to diagnose and repair any furnace problem you may be having—from minor issues to major repairs—and get you back to being snug and comfortable. Just contact us to schedule an appointment!
If you want your furnace to live a long healthy life, then you need to schedule furnace maintenance once a year. Ideally, you should have furnace maintenance performed at the end of summer or beginning of fall before heating season begins. That way, you can be sure your furnace is running in top condition and maximum efficiency.
For over 35 years, our team has been working hard to provide those in the Queens area and throughout Brooklyn County with exceptional customer service. Whether you need furnace repair, replacement, installation, or maintenance services, you can trust us to get the job done right.
To schedule furnace services in Brooklyn County, give us a call at (718) 577-7875 now!