Top Features to Look for in a New HVAC System

HVAC services in O'Fallon, MO

Picking the right HVAC system for your home is crucial to your indoor comfort and energy bills. This is why we always recommend letting a professional help you with the selection process. There are several must-have features that maximize efficiency and ensure long-term reliability.

SEER Rating (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio)

A SEER rating shows how energy efficient an air conditioner is. The higher the rating, the more efficient the AC. Over time, the higher efficiency will save money on cooling costs. We suggest installing an AC with a SEER rating of at least 14.

AFUE Rating (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency)

This rating is applicable to gas furnaces and provides information on their heat production in relation to its fuel consumption. Your system is very efficient if its AFUE value is high. The AFUE of most new furnaces ranges from 80% to 98%.

ENERGY STAR Certification

HVAC systems that satisfy the stringent energy efficiency standards established by the EPA will have ENERGY STAR certification. These systems not only help save money on power costs, but they also improve the environment.

Wi-Fi Thermostat

With a Wi-Fi or smart thermostat, you can manage the temperature of your house from a mobile device from any location. Those with built-in learning capabilities can even learn your heating and cooling routine and make automated adjustments to save power. If you get one with smart scheduling, you can preset temperature changes based on your daily routine without needing to constantly adjust it yourself. Wi-Fi thermostats are available in many types, so you’ll need to verify compatibility before buying one. One of our experts can help you choose a model that works seamlessly with your HVAC.

Zoning Capabilities

With zoning, you can divide your house into many “zones” and regulate the temperature in each one independently. This works great if you have different comfort preferences among family members. Plus, because it only heats or cools the rooms that are in use, it contributes to energy savings. HVAC zoning also works well for homes with multiple floors or large open spaces that heat or cool unevenly.

Advanced Filtration or UV Lights

A high-quality filtration system can significantly reduce airborne allergens, including pollen, dust and dust mites. Some systems even use ultraviolet (UV) lamps to eradicate pathogens. Members of your household who suffer from asthma or allergies will find this particularly useful.

Humidity Control

Keeping the right humidity level is important for both comfort and preventing mold. HVAC systems with integrated moisture control work great for keeping balanced humidity all throughout the home. Whether you want a built-in dehumidifier or humidifier depends on where you live. For those in O’Fallon, MO, the high humidity tends to make the air feel warmer and stickier. An HVAC with a built-in dehumidifier will pull excess moisture from the air and help your home feel cooler and more comfortable.

Professional Sizing

Professional sizing is of the utmost importance when selecting a new HVAC system. Systems that are too large end up short-cycling and wasting energy. A system that is too small will run continuously; this will lead to increased wear and tear, higher utility bills and poor comfort levels. With professional sizing, you can rest easy knowing your system is the right size. It will run efficiently, last longer and provide optimal comfort for your space.

Variable-Speed Compressor

A variable-speed compressor can modify its operating intensity to suit your household’s specific requirements. This improves the efficiency of the HVAC and ensures that your house stays at a consistent temperature. Not all homes or existing ductwork support variable-speed technology. You’ll need to have a professional confirm compatibility to avoid installation and performance problems.

Quiet Operation (Low Decibel Rating)

Nobody wants a noisy HVAC system. To ensure a silent operation, try to choose units with a low decibel (dB) rating. Those without a low rating will rumble loudly and vibrate as they start up. You might also notice a banging or clanking sound when they shut off or change cycles.

Remote Diagnostics & Monitoring

If you get an HVAC system with remote monitoring, an expert can detect issues immediately, sometimes, without ever stepping foot into your home. Some of the different problems they can address with remote monitoring include:

  • Compressor failure
  • Refrigerant leaks
  • Dirty or clogged filters
  • Faulty thermostat readings
  • Malfunctioning sensors

Smart Home Integration

If you prefer using smart home systems like Alexa or Google Home, you’ll want an HVAC that can sync with them. This integration allows you to control your system remotely and adjust settings with voice commands. With automated scheduling or geofencing, you can even set the temperature based on your location or automatically adjust when you leave or arrive. This does much more than improve indoor comfort levels. It also reduces wear and tear and helps the HVAC last longer and experience fewer breakdowns.

Auto Restart After Power Outage

Power outages are quite common in O’Fallon, especially during storms and severe weather events. When this happens, you need an HVAC system that can auto-restart to its last settings once the power comes back on. This will quickly restore comfort and prevent temperature fluctuations. It also takes away the worry of having to reset the system yourself.

Eco Mode Settings

There are options on some systems to reduce power use while you’re not home or when the weather is nice. These settings help save money on your electricity expenses without sacrificing how comfortable you are. You typically access the eco-mode settings on the thermostat.

Condensate Overflow Protection

Both the AC and furnace have condensate drain lines. As they operate, moisture collects and drains away from the unit. Without overflow protection, you risk clogs and water backing up into your home. If this happens, the water can damage your floors and walls. It will also increase the likelihood of mold growth. When the mold spreads, it may cause structural damage to your home. To keep this from happening, make sure to install a unit with condensate overflow protection.

Two-Stage Operation

With two-stage operation, the HVAC will have two levels of output: low and high. It will run on low most of the time to improve energy efficiency and provide enhanced humidity control. When demand increases or outdoor temperatures become extreme, it will switch to the high-output mode. This ensures it can quickly reach and maintain your desired indoor temperature.

Professional Installation

No matter the type of HVAC you choose, you must have it installed professionally. This is key to avoiding problems with uneven heating and cooling. It also prevents excessive energy use and premature repairs. Moreover, it guarantees the HVAC meets all applicable codes and regulations; this is paramount to keeping the warranty valid and mitigating safety hazards. In short, professional installation protects your comfort and investment for years to come.

Get With the Pros

Hoff Heating & AC is all about helping homeowners like you select the right HVAC system. We offer installations, repairs and tune-ups so that your system stays fully functional and efficient year-round. Call Hoff Heating & AC now to book professional HVAC services in O’Fallon.