When it comes to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, there are four main types to choose from. Split systems, hybrid systems, ductless systems, and packaged heating and air systems all have their own advantages and disadvantages. Knowing these factors can help you decide which one is best for your home or business. Split heating and cooling systems are the most common type of HVAC system used in residential buildings.
They consist of two separate components, one for heating and the other for cooling. A traditional thermostat is used to control the temperature of the entire structure. The heating unit is usually located in a basement, utility closet, or other indoor storage space and runs on gas. An evaporator or fan pushes heat through the ducts of a building.
The cooling system is located outside and is connected to the ducts of a building through a series of tubes. Compressors, coils, and refrigerant generate cold air, while a fan directs hot air out and away from the building. A hybrid split HVAC system has the same structure and cooling unit as a split system, but it doesn't rely solely on gas to generate heat. While your heater can burn gas, it can also switch to electrical power. Electric heating is often slower and less powerful than gas heating, but this option gives building owners greater control over their energy consumption and can help reduce energy costs in milder climates. Packaged heating and cooling systems are less common than split systems, but their smaller size makes them more suitable for small buildings that lack additional storage space.
The heating and cooling components are housed in a single unit and are usually stored on a roof, in an attic, or near the foundation of the building. Packaged air conditioning systems connect to the supply and return ducts of a building, often through a single hole in the wall. Depending on the climate, building owners can choose to install an integrated heat pump containing evaporator coils or an air conditioner integrated with an air controller with optional thermal separation elements. Ductless mini-split systems are installed in individual rooms and are common in multi-family homes, office buildings, and hotel rooms. These electrical units include an outdoor compressor and condenser, a refrigerant, an indoor air treatment unit, a heat pump, power cables, and a thermostat for each zone.
Copper tubes connect interior and exterior components, while a compressor can connect up to nine indoor air treatment units. Heat pumps (when combined with air treatment systems) provide excellent heating and cooling by carrying heat away from the house during the summer. A hybrid split system is a similar option to the split HVAC system mentioned above and is very energy efficient because they have a hybrid electric heating system. This gives homeowners the choice between gas energy or electric power for heating their house. These hybrid split heating and cooling systems are ideal for climates where you need to be able to choose the temperature of your home due to climate changes in your area during the colder months. The most important part of selecting an HVAC system is finding an experienced contractor who can install it correctly.
When it comes to such a large investment, it's important to compare quotes from 3 or 4 reputable local contractors before making your decision. At Blair's Air we've been serving Pinellas County and the South Tampa area since 1974 and are dedicated to providing individualized service to ensure you're 100 percent satisfied with our work. If you have any questions about HVAC services, call us today or schedule a service appointment online.
