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Whether upgrading an old system or installing a new one, choosing the right HVAC system for your home is an important decision requiring careful consideration. While buying a new HVAC system is a significant investment, making the right choice can improve energy efficiency, reduce utility bills, and increase the value of your home. 

For homeowners in Dayton, Ohio, selecting a new HVAC system is essential for combatting the humid summers and cold winters. With fluctuating temperatures throughout the year, an efficient and suitably sized system is a top priority for year-round comfort and cost savings.

Factors like the size of your home, the number of rooms, and your budget also play a key role in finding the best solution. 

This HVAC buying guide covers system types, energy efficiency ratings, and the best HVAC brands to help you make an informed decision.

1. Understanding the Basics: Types of HVAC Systems

Choosing an HVAC system starts with understanding the different types available. The main HVAC systems used by homeowners in Dayton are:

Central Air Conditioning & Furnace Systems

The most common for Ohio homes, a central air conditioning and furnace system is a split HVAC setup that provides year-round heating and cooling through ductwork. The central AC removes heat and humidity in summer, while the furnace, powered by gas, propane, or electricity, keeps the home warm in winter. With proper maintenance, furnaces can last 15-20 years, and air conditioners 12-15 years, making this a durable and cost-effective HVAC solution.

Heat Pumps

A heat pump is a versatile, energy-efficient HVAC system that can heat and cool your home. In summer, it operates like an air conditioner, removing heat from the house, while in winter, it extracts heat from the outdoor air to warm the home. A cost-effective and eco-friendly HVAC option with adequate maintenance, heat pumps typically last 10-15 years. 

Ductless Mini-Split Systems

A ductless mini-split system is a highly efficient HVAC option for older homes without ductwork or adding zoned temperature control in different rooms. It offers quiet operation, energy savings, and improved air quality. Lasting 15-20 years, it is a versatile and cost-saving solution.

Geothermal HVAC Systems

Highly efficient and eco-friendly, a geothermal HVAC system uses stable underground temperatures to heat and cool your home. It transfers heat from the ground in winter and back into the ground in summer, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Geothermal HVAC systems are a sustainable option, offering a lifespan of over 25 years. Despite the higher initial investment, they provide long-term savings and require minimal maintenance.

Hybrid Systems

A combination of a furnace and a heat pump, a hybrid HVAC system automatically switches between the two for optimal efficiency, making it ideal for fluctuating climates. It offers year-round comfort and reduced energy costs. 

Contact the HVAC professionals at A-Abel to discuss your options and receive recommendations tailored to your specific requirements. 

2. Factors to Consider When Buying a New HVAC System

A. Energy Efficiency Ratings Matter

Your comfort and utility expenses are directly influenced by the energy efficiency ratings of the HVAC system you choose:

SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio)

SEER measures the cooling efficiency of air conditioning systems over an entire season. In Dayton, Ohio, where summers can be warm and humid, a higher SEER rating (ideally 16 or above) indicates a more efficient system that uses less energy to cool your home, ultimately saving on utility bills.

HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor)

HSPF indicates the heating efficiency of a heat pump. Like SEER for cooling, a higher HSPF value means better energy efficiency. In Ohio, where winters can range from mild to cold, an HSPF rating of at least 8.0 is recommended. For optimal energy savings, many homeowners opt for systems with HSPF ratings of 9.0 or higher, as they offer greater efficiency and can help reduce heating costs in the colder months.

AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency)

AFUE determines the efficiency of a heating system, indicating how much heat is produced for each unit of fuel. A high AFUE rating is particularly important for reducing heating costs in Dayton, where winters are cold. Most gas furnaces in the area have an AFUE rating of 80-90%, but systems with 95% AFUE or higher are ideal, converting most energy into heat and lowering energy consumption and bills.

Energy Star

Ohio homeowners can benefit from Energy Star-rated HVAC systems to lower monthly utility bills and reduce environmental impact. An Energy Star system is an HVAC unit certified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for meeting high energy efficiency standards. These systems are available for heating and cooling applications and can be purchased from certified dealers or installers; look for HVAC units that display the Energy Star label. 

By understanding ratings like SEER, HSPF, AFUE, and Energy Star, you can make informed decisions, leading to greater efficiency, lower energy bills, and a more environmentally friendly home.

B. Proper Sizing for Your Home

An HVAC system that’s too large will cycle on and off frequently, wasting energy and causing unnecessary wear and tear. Conversely, a system that’s too small won’t effectively heat or cool the home, leading to discomfort and higher energy bills. To determine the ideal system size, professional HVAC contractors use Manual J calculations, which consider home size, insulation, window placement, and local climate. 

This ensures you receive a correctly sized unit, maximizing efficiency and comfort while minimizing energy consumption and costs. Proper sizing is key to long-term system performance and savings. For homeowners, it’s best to rely on certified HVAC contractors to perform the calculation as it involves a detailed analysis of your home’s specifications.

C. Dayton’s Climate & How It Affects Your HVAC Choice

Summers in Dayton can reach temperatures of the upper 80s with high humidity, making an air conditioning system with strong dehumidification essential for maximum comfort. On the other hand, winters often drop below freezing, requiring a high-efficiency furnace to keep homes warm without excessive energy consumption. 

A hybrid system combining a heat pump for moderate temperatures and a gas furnace for extreme cold offers an ideal solution for Ohio’s fluctuating climate. It ensures year-round comfort while optimizing energy efficiency.

D. Smart & Modern Features to Look For

Homeowners can use smart thermostats like Nest or Ecobee to optimize their heating and cooling schedules. These thermostats learn their preferences and adjust temperatures to align with their daily routines. They can also be controlled remotely, ensuring maximum comfort and energy savings. 

Additionally, variable-speed technology in modern HVAC systems adjusts fan speeds for better efficiency and comfort than standard systems without wasting energy. 

Zoning systems allow for room-by-room temperature control and are particularly beneficial for multi-story homes, where temperature distribution can be uneven. With zoning, homeowners can focus on heating or cooling where needed most, improving comfort and reducing energy consumption in unused areas.

3. Comparing the Top HVAC Brands  

A-Abel installs and services reliable, high-quality HVAC brands that perform well in Dayton, Ohio’s climate:

• Carrier — A leader in heating and cooling technology, Carrier is recognized for its durable, efficient, and smart integration.
• Weil-McLain — Specializes in high-efficiency boilers, which are ideal for homes with radiant heating.
• Tempstar — A solid mid-range brand providing reliable furnaces, air conditioners, and heat pumps.
• ClimateMaster — A top choice for geothermal HVAC systems, maximizing energy savings for eco-conscious homeowners.

When buying a new HVAC system, look for reviews that focus on reliability, energy efficiency, and long-term performance. Expert installation is crucial — even the best brands can underperform if not installed by a trusted HVAC professional.  

4. Budgeting & Financing Your New HVAC System

The upfront cost of a new HVAC system depends on factors such as the type of unit, its efficiency rating, and the size of your home. Investing in the most suitable, energy-efficient system for your home can lead to significant long-term savings on energy bills. Additionally, Ohio homeowners may qualify for rebates and incentives when upgrading to a high-efficiency HVAC system. A-Abel offers flexible financing options for Dayton homeowners to make the investment more manageable.

Choosing the right HVAC system is a significant decision for homeowners, impacting comfort, energy use, and home value. Properly sized and installed, energy-efficient HVAC systems will provide long-term savings and performance.  

A-Abel is the leading HVAC company in Dayton, Ohio. Contact our licensed and experienced HVAC professionals for expert advice, installation, and maintenance.