You need a high-quality HVAC system if you want your home to be comfortable all year long. However, if your current system isn’t working properly or you don’t have one, it’s time to install a new model. That said, you may have questions like, “What size HVAC unit do I need in Charlotte?” Fortunately, we’re here to help. There are several factors to consider before buying an HVAC system, so let’s run through them one by one.
Size and Layout of the Home
First and foremost, you must ensure that your new HVAC can adequately heat and cool your home throughout the year. As you would imagine, a larger house needs a bigger HVAC, while a smaller home doesn’t need as much power.
Since this system handles heating and cooling, you must ensure that the air conditioner and the heater are the correct size. To size an air conditioner, you need to know how many BTUs are acceptable for your square footage.
As a rule, one ton of cooling (12,000 BTUs) is necessary for about 400 to 500 square feet. So, if you have a 1,000-square-foot home, you need at least 24,000 BTUs for your air conditioner. However, HVAC professionals must run a workload calculation to properly size your HVAC system, as this calculation considers your home structural conditions (e.g., age, materials, windows, etc.) to correctly determine the size of your equipment
Similarly, furnaces use BTUs to generate heat within the home. North Carolina can get pretty chilly in the winter, although exact temperatures and weather patterns can vary from one area to the next. Overall, a furnace should have about 20,000 BTUs for every 500 square feet. But again, a workload calculation will determine your HVAC equipment’s size.
Costs
By now, you may be asking, “What does an HVAC unit cost in Charlotte, NC?” Unfortunately, the answer depends on quite a few variables. Those factors can include elements like:
- Are you installing a brand-new HVAC system or updating an existing system?
- Do you need new ductwork installed, or does the home already have ducts in place?
- What is the specific climate of the house throughout the year?
- How old is the home?
These variables can increase or decrease the costs significantly. As a rule, repairing or updating an existing HVAC system is more affordable than installing a brand-new one, especially if we have to install new ductwork.
SEER Rating
The SEER rating stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. This ratio measures how much cooling output an HVAC system puts out over a season compared to how much electricity it uses. A higher number means the system is much more energy-efficient, so you can expect to save money on your utility bills. For example, a 20 SEER HVAC unit will be twice as efficient as a 10 SEER unit.
Although high-efficiency systems are more expensive, they usually save money over the long term. Also, since they’re so efficient at converting electricity into climate-controlled air, they last longer and require less maintenance overall.
System Type
There are five primary types of HVAC systems, each with pros and cons. Here’s a quick overview of each option:
- Furnace and A/C – This is the most common system, particularly for older homes. In this case, a furnace generates heat in the winter, and an air conditioner cools the house during the summer.
- Heat Pump – Heat pumps can work in Charlotte, but they’re built for moderate climates. Rather than generating heat (i.e., burning propane), a heat pump transfers heat from one area to another. This option is energy-efficient but may not be able to handle freezing temperatures.
- Heat Pump and Furnace – In this case, the heat pump has a supplemental furnace to generate heat for colder periods. This option can work well for Charlotte homes.
- Ductless Mini-Split – If one room or section of the house needs additional heating and cooling, a ductless mini-split may be the best choice. This option doesn’t require ductwork but only works for a relatively small area.
- Geothermal – In this case, the HVAC system uses geothermal heat to provide warmth and generate electricity. This option is the most energy-efficient, but it’s also expensive and time-consuming to install.
Let City Air Experts Help You Get the Best HVAC System
Don’t leave your comfort to chance. Trust City Air Experts for all your HVAC needs in Charlotte, NC. Whether you’re contemplating installing a new HVAC system or need HVAC repair in Charlotte, NC, our experienced team offers comprehensive guidance tailored to your climate needs and budget constraints. Starting with a thorough site inspection, we present you with viable solutions that prioritize your well-being.
Ready to experience year-round comfort? Contact us today to learn how we can elevate your indoor living experience. For a detailed look at our range of HVAC solutions, check out our services page.
Don’t let extreme weather catch you off guard. With City Air Experts, you’re always one step ahead.
