The type of HVAC system you choose will significantly impact your up-front costs and energy savings. Name-brand systems cost more than generic units but also have better warranties and service agreements.
Ductwork acts as your home’s lungs, transporting heated or cooled air to different house areas. It’s typically the most expensive component of a new HVAC installation.
Installation Costs
An HVAC system is a major financial investment. Make sure you work with a trustworthy, licensed professional who will give you fair quotes for the work. Get multiple estimates and ask many questions before signing a contract. This will help you avoid expensive repairs and save money on your energy costs.
The size of your space will determine what size HVAC unit you need. This will also affect the installation cost. Larger systems require more work for the contractor and are often more costly. A smaller HVAC unit can be more affordable if it can heat or cool your home with fewer energy costs.
An HVAC installation can include other services like insulation and ductwork. These add-ons can improve the efficiency of your HVAC system and reduce utility bills. They can also eliminate condensation, which leads to mold and mildew. Insulation typically costs from $1,000 to $2,100, and is an excellent way to lower your energy costs.
Thermostats
A well-functioning HVAC system keeps you from freezing in the winter and sweating all summer. But even the best equipment needs replacement after some time.
The size of the space you need to heat and cool determines the cost. A bigger home will require a larger HVAC unit.
You can get an idea of how much to expect by asking around for referrals and reading reviews on local HVAC companies. You should also ask about the HVAC company’s experience and whether they offer in-house financing, which is a great option for those who can’t afford to pay for a new HVAC system upfront.
Some contractors may charge by the hour, while others will have a set labor rate. Make sure you know how each contractor charges so that you can compare quotes accurately. It’s also worth considering the extra cost of a smart thermostat that can communicate with other heating and cooling system components.
Combustion Chamber
The combustion chamber is the area inside an internal-combustion engine where a mixture of air and fuel is tightly compressed before being ignited by a spark plug. The resulting explosion propels the pistons through the “suck, crush, blow” cycle of operation that generates power to drive the machine forward.
Before completing any HVAC installation, the technician should inspect the combustion chamber for localized overheating and cracks. He should also look at the first stage turbine blades and nozzle guide vanes for damage, warping, foreign object debris, and other issues.
Next, the technician should check the ductwork for leaks and obstructions. A new system will not obtain optimal performance without properly sized ductwork that is well sealed and insulated. The technician should also perform a load calculation to determine the best type and size of unit for the property. Purchasing a unit that is too large for the space will result in reduced efficiency and higher energy bills.
Ductwork
Your HVAC system needs ducts to deliver conditioned air throughout your home. These ducts are like the veins and arteries in your body, with the return air ducts carrying unconditioned air to your furnace to be cooled, and the supply air ducts sending conditioned air back into your home.
Ideally, your ductwork will be insulated and sealed to prevent energy losses from as much as 40%. It is important to hire an experienced contractor to do this work, since it is labor intensive and requires cutting into your ceilings and walls.
Leaky ducts can also cause your HVAC system to work harder, which increases the cost of operating it. Be sure to find an experienced, licensed, bonded and insured professional to do the job. Ask for references from past clients, and check out their reputation online. It is also a good idea to schedule your install during the cool season, when contractors are less busy and more willing to give you a discount.