Installing a new air conditioning system is not just about staying cool. It is also a smart investment in your home's comfort and energy efficiency. Finding the right cooling capacity is important.
Modern HVAC systems can offer better energy efficiency. These factors can greatly affect your indoor comfort, monthly energy bills, and your home's air quality. Whether you're replacing your current HVAC system or upgrading for improved performance, understanding these important considerations will help you make a decision you'll be happy with for years to come.
In this HVAC buying guide, we will cover the top 10 things every homeowner should consider. This is before installing a new heating and cooling system. We will present the information in clear and simple steps.
When buying a new HVAC system, remember that bigger isn't always better. A large central air conditioner or gas furnace will turn on and off too often. This causes uneven cooling, more wear and tear, and higher energy bills. Conversely, an undersized heating and cooling system will constantly struggle to maintain comfortable temperatures, running non-stop and wearing itself out prematurely.
Choosing the right size involves more than just square footage. Professional HVAC companies perform a Manual J Load Calculation, which factors in:
Your home's insulation quality significantly impacts your HVAC needs. Well-insulated homes retain conditioned air better, potentially allowing for smaller units. Your contractor should check the wall insulation and attic coverage. They should also look at your air ducts for leaks or damage. This can help improve system efficiency.
The number, size, and orientation of your windows dramatically influence heating and cooling requirements. South-facing windows allow more solar heat gain in winter but can increase cooling demands in summer. Double-pane or energy-efficient windows reduce the load on your HVAC system compared to older single-pane options.
Local weather patterns determine your peak heating and cooling needs. Homes in cold climates need robust heating capacity, while hot regions require powerful cooling performance. A proper HVAC system matches your regional conditions rather than using national averages.
The number of people regularly in your home and your major appliances create internal heat loads. More occupants and heat-generating equipment (like ovens and computers) mean more cooling capacity may be needed, especially in frequently used areas of your home.
British Thermal Units (BTUs) measure how much heating or cooling power your system needs. A professional will calculate the precise BTU requirements for your space based on all above factors, ensuring your system isn't wastefully oversized or frustratingly undersized.
Pro Tip: Always ask for a load calculation before HVAC installation. This ensures your new system matches your home's cooling needs.
SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) shows how well an air conditioning unit works during a cooling season. AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) measures how efficiently a gas furnace uses fuel. With energy-efficient systems, the higher these efficiency ratings, the lower your energy bills.
With newer SEER2 standards in place, choosing energy efficient systems is even more important. Modern HVAC systems from trusted brands like Lennox, Carrier, Daikin, Trane, and Amana can reach impressive efficiency ratings — which translate to major savings on utility bills.
When evaluating energy efficiency:
Tip: Utility companies sometimes offer significant rebates for installing energy efficient systems — especially when you choose brands known for better energy efficiency.
A new HVAC system is a significant investment — and a strong warranty protects that investment.
Always check:
Top brands like Trane, Carrier, and Amana are known for offering solid, competitive warranties. A reputable HVAC company will also walk you through optional extended warranty packages for even more peace of mind.
Pro Tip: A longer or better warranty often signals better quality control at the manufacturing level and can save you from unexpected HVAC replacement costs down the road.
A new HVAC system installation is the perfect time to think about indoor air quality. Many newer units can easily integrate with add-ons that significantly improve the air you breathe daily.
These sophisticated systems work with your central air conditioner to capture and eliminate microscopic particles throughout your entire home. Whole-home purifiers clean all the air in your home. They work with your heating and cooling system. This gives you complete protection from allergens and pollutants.
Excess humidity makes your home feel warmer and creates perfect conditions for mold growth. Integrated dehumidifiers work with your cooling system. They help keep moisture levels just right. This improves comfort when cooling. They also protect your home from moisture damage and mold growth.
UV light systems installed within your air ducts or air handlers kill bacteria, viruses, and mold spores that could otherwise recirculate through your home. This technology is particularly valuable for households with immune-compromised members or respiratory concerns.
Standard filters capture large particles, but high-efficiency filters (MERV 13+ or HEPA) trap microscopic contaminants. These advanced air filters remove pollen, pet dander, and even some bacteria from your home's air supply, significantly improving indoor air quality for allergy sufferers.
Brands like Lennox provide systems with air purification features. These systems help remove allergens, bacteria, and viruses from the cool air in your home.
If you or anyone in your household has allergies, asthma, or respiratory sensitivities, don't overlook these upgrades to your central air system!
Everyone considers the purchase price when buying a new HVAC, but it's just one part of the equation. You should also think about:
The initial costs of air source heat pumps and geothermal heat pumps can be higher. This is compared to traditional HVAC systems. However, their better energy efficiency can make them more cost-effective over time, especially in moderate climates.
Tip: Always ask your HVAC company for a total cost of ownership estimate — not just the sticker price of the AC units or furnace.
System noise may not seem like a big deal — until your new central air conditioner kicks on and disrupts your peace and quiet.
Today's premium brands engineer their cooling equipment and heating systems for quiet operation, with sound levels as low as 50–60 decibels.
When choosing an HVAC unit, look for:
Especially if your outdoor unit will be placed near a bedroom or patio, low noise levels are worth paying attention to when selecting split system components.
Even the most energy efficient systems won't perform well if installed improperly. Choosing the right HVAC company is just as important as selecting the right equipment.
Past customer experiences provide valuable insight into an HVAC company's reliability and quality of work. Look for detailed reviews that mention specifics about the installation process, responsiveness to questions, and how the company handled any challenges that arose. Check multiple review sources to get a comprehensive picture of their reputation.
A reputable HVAC company will have all necessary licensing, insurance, and bonding. These credentials protect you if accidents occur during installation and indicate the contractor meets industry standards. Ask to see current documentation and verify with your state licensing board if uncertain about credentials.
Not all HVAC companies are equally skilled with all system types. Some specialize in traditional split systems while others excel with ductless installations or geothermal heat pumps. Choose a contractor with proven experience installing your specific system type, especially for specialized options like packaged systems or cold-climate heat pumps.
Quality contractors provide detailed written proposals that specify all installation costs, equipment specifications, warranty information, and projected timeline. Be wary of vague quotes with minimal detail or contractors who can't clearly explain their recommendations for your new HVAC system.
Red flag: If a contractor doesn't perform a full evaluation of your home and current HVAC system before recommending a new system, they're probably cutting corners that could impact performance.
Today's heating and cooling systems come in several varieties:
Each HVAC system type has its pros and cons depending on your home layout, existing air ducts, budget, and energy efficiency goals.
For example, ductless systems excel in homes without existing ductwork, while geothermal heat pumps offer exceptional efficiency but require higher upfront investment. Brands like Daikin are industry leaders in ductless technology, while Trane and Carrier offer outstanding heat pump systems for year-round comfort.
Tip: A good HVAC company will help you look at the pros and cons of each option. They can recommend the best HVAC system for your home based on your needs.
Modern HVAC systems can be paired with smart thermostats and home automation systems for better control, efficiency, and comfort.
Look for heating and cooling systems that are compatible with:
Using smart technology makes life easier. It can also lower your heating and cooling costs. It does this by optimizing when your system runs and sending maintenance alerts.
Saving money on your new HVAC system doesn't end at comparing base prices!
Many manufacturers and local utilities offer rebates, special promotions, and financing options to help reduce the cost of installing a new heating and cooling system. This is especially true for energy efficient systems that exceed minimum efficiency ratings.
Brands like Lennox, Carrier, and Daikin frequently run seasonal promotions on their cooling equipment and heating systems, especially during spring and fall when demand is lower.
Pro Tip: Always ask your HVAC company to check for:
It's possible to save hundreds — even thousands — of dollars if you time your purchase right.
Choosing a new HVAC system is a significant decision — but armed with this knowledge, you can approach it confidently.
To choose the right HVAC system, focus on the main areas we talked about. These areas are sizing, efficiency ratings, warranty coverage, and system types. This will help you balance the initial installation costs with long-term energy savings.
Remember that proper maintenance will extend the life of your investment. Schedule regular service for your air filters, air ducts, and mechanical components to keep your heating and cooling system running efficiently for years to come.
The most important decision you make when looking for a new HVAC system is the people you choose to work with. Partner with one of the best loved HVAC companies in Phoenix, Arizona to ensure quality installation that maximizes the performance of your new system. Contact us today!