Different Types of HVAC Systems to Consider for Your Home

Need to install or replace your home's HVAC system? Let Gladiator Services help when you call us at (201) 512-8972!

HVAC systems are crucial in keeping our homes comfortable year-round. However, there are some factors to consider before installing or replacing your home's HVAC system. Learning about the various types of HVAC systems is always a good start. 

The most popular HVAC systems come with excellent energy efficiency and a lifespan between 15 and 25 years. However, choosing a suitable unit also depends where you live and the size of your home. 

This guide will explore the various HVAC systems and which factors might influence your decision. Instead of installing a new air conditioning unit, you can also obtain an effective air conditioning repair in Mahwah, NJ.

What You Should Know About HVAC Systems 

Before upgrading your HVAC system, it's essential to know some basics. First, HVAC stands for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.

An HVAC system's primary function is allowing homeowners to control their cooling and heating temperatures. Common types of HVAC systems include:

• Ductless AC units
• Heat pumps
• Boilers 
• Central air conditioners 
• Furnaces

Sometimes you can buy both heating and cooling units in a single package. Other times, however, it makes sense to buy them separately or to have one versus both. For example, warmer climates may not require furnaces. 

How Does an HVAC System Operate? 

While many types of HVAC systems exist, they all have the same primary function: maintaining and regulating temperatures and air quality via a ventilation system. 

Heating systems like heat pumps absorb outside heat and bring it inside your home. On the other hand, furnaces use burning fuel or electricity to generate heat. 

An air conditioning unit absorbs your home's indoor heat. It then transfers it to outdoor components and removes the heat via its compressor. 

The heat then transforms into liquid refrigerant. The refrigerant transfers through the evaporator coil and condenser to become cool air. Your ductwork and vents distribute this cool air throughout your home. 

The Most Popular Types of HVAC Systems 

We'll now explore the most popular types of HVAC systems for cooling and heating your home: 

A Heating and Cooling Split System 

A heating and cooling split system is a widespread type of HVAC system. Residential and commercial properties alike often use this system. Each one contains two central systems: one for cooling and another for heating. 

These systems typically have an indoor unit like a furnace inside a garage, basement, attic, utility closet, crawl space, etc. They may also have an outside air conditioning unit.

Two standard configurations are: 

• An air handler and heat pump: An air pump system is excellent for regions with hot climates that don't experience cold temperatures. A heat pump doesn't generate heat, making it very energy-efficient. Instead, the air handler circulates absorbed heat through your ductwork.
• A furnace and an AC unit: People sometimes call these systems forced air systems. People call them forced air systems because the furnace uses blower fans for circulating air throughout a home's ducts. 

The main advantage of these two systems is that they're cost-effective and easy to repair or replace. However, they sometimes disperse allergens, dust, and odors throughout your home. 

A Hybrid Split System 

Hybrid split systems also have excellent energy efficiency. Homeowners can choose between electric or gas power for heating their homes. Using these hybrid systems is especially useful in climates with dramatic temperature fluctuations during winter. 

You can easily control this type of HVAC system using a thermostat. Furthermore, by upgrading to a smart thermostat, you can remotely control your hybrid split system. Altogether, many homeowners choose this system for its energy efficiency and higher warmth capacity. 

However, these systems use a forced air process. So, you may need to deal with allergens, odors, and dust circulating throughout your home. 

Ductless Mini Split Systems 

Some homes may benefit from a ductless mini split HVAC system. This system works by installing various small units throughout your home. Then, you can determine which rooms need individual heating and cooling. 

The installation process involves mounting the units on your home's walls. Your technician will then connect your units to an outside compressor. While you can install these mini split systems quicker than a conventional unit, the individual units cost more. 

The reasons homeowners choose a mini split system include: 

• They only want to cool or heat a specific room at a time.
• They don't use all the rooms in their home and want to reduce their energy bills.
• They and their family prefer having individual temperature control across the home.

However, one drawback of these systems is that installing one in a freezing climate is complex and expensive. Maintenance can also be costly, depending on the area. 

Packaged Heating and Air Conditioners 

Packaged heating and air conditioners feature heating and air conditioning in one. Typically, homeowners install these systems in their attic or on their home's highest floor. A single unit can quickly heat or cool a house while being energy-efficient. 

Warmer climates tend to use these units the most. Since the unit generates heat electrically, these systems are often weaker than other heating options available. Yet, more robust units that use electric and gas heat exist, giving off more power. 

One advantage of these units is that they don't create much noise. However, fewer options exist on the market. They are also less energy-efficient than ductless systems. 

Gladiator Services Can Help You Decide 

Many different HVAC systems exist. Choosing the right unit depends on factors like: 

• The size of your home
• Your budget 
• Whether you can repair your existing unit
• Your location's climate 

The most expensive unit may not always be the best option. Our Gladiator Services technicians can help you select the correct types of HVAC systems in Mahwah, NJ. We will consider your home's needs alongside your budget. 



Learn more about the importance of air conditioner efficiency and which unit to choose by calling Gladiator Services at (201) 512-8972!