How to Choose Between Energy-efficient HVAC Systems

Energy efficiency is excellent, both for your wallet and for the planet. You can save money in cold Indianapolis winters and during the hot, humid summers with the right heating and cooling options installed. But what do you look for when selecting from the most efficient HVAC systems?

Read on to learn from our guide to HVAC efficiency.

Why Aim for HVAC Efficiency?

Efficient HVAC systems offer a range of benefits. Here’s what installing the most efficient systems can do for you:

  • Lower heating and cooling costs. This is one of the most obvious benefits of an efficient system: They cost less money to run because they use less energy. All that leads to lower bills at the end of the month.

  • Fewer emissions. Efficient HVAC systems use less power, producing less pollution than other systems. An efficient natural gas furnace lowers emissions compared to your old one, while an air-exchange or geothermal heat pump cuts them out nearly altogether. HVAC solutions powered by electricity always produce fewer greenhouse emissions than those powered by natural gas, propane, or fuel oil.

  • Earn installation rebates and credits. The federal government offers various tax incentives to offset the costs of installing systems like air-source heat pumps, efficient central air, and the most efficient gas heaters. Incentives also cover other energy-saving home improvements, like electric water heater installation and electrical panel upgrades to accommodate your home improvements.

What to Look for in Efficient HVAC Systems

That said, not all efficient systems are created equal. While you choose your HVAC, keep these factors in mind:

  • Price. Some efficient HVAC systems have a higher upfront cost. Federal and local rebates or tax credits can offset all or some of those costs. For example, an Energy Star whole-home humidifier might cost more upfront but will save you money each month you use it. Gas furnaces, standard electric furnaces, and efficient central HVAC systems tend to be the least expensive, followed by mini-splits and air-source heat pumps. Geothermal heat pumps are the most expensive HVAC system simply because they require excavation.

  • Ducted and un-ducted options. Some systems require air ducts, which can be expensive to install if you don’t already have them. If you already have ducts, you can choose from a variety of common HVAC systems, such as central air. Some systems can run un-ducted, perfect for new build or historic homes without air ducts. Central HVAC runs well in large houses, which would require several mini-split units to heat and cool.

  • Efficiency factor. Some systems are more efficient than others. Geothermal heat pumps are 400% efficient, with air-source heat pumps reaching 300%. Even so, efficiency doesn’t always mean less expensive—but it does always mean fewer emissions. Choosing between gas and electricity can help the environment: efficient electric HVACs can reduce energy use by up to 50%, while gas upgrades usually save about 10%. Look for the Energy Star rating to be sure you get an efficient system.

    • SEER and EER. The seasonal energy efficiency rating (SEER) and energy efficiency rating (EER) are two ways to measure and rate a system’s efficiency. Look for a SEER rating between 18 and 20 (you don’t need higher since Indianapolis doesn’t have blazingly hot summers) and an EER over 13.

  • Safety. If you choose to use a gas-powered furnace over an electric-powered solution (like a heat pump), you risk potentially deadly carbon monoxide leaks.

  • Maintenance needs. Heat pumps are notable for their low maintenance requirements, while gas and propane furnaces tend to need the most maintenance and repairs. Electric HVAC systems often need a middling amount of upkeep work. However, you should still schedule annual inspections to look for any signs of worn parts, no matter your system.

Are Heat Pumps Efficient?

Yes! As stated above, heat pump energy efficiency rises 300–400% over standard central air systems. Geothermal heat pumps are the most energy-efficient HVAC system, with air-source heat pumps a close second. They require less power by redistributing heat (that already exists naturally) instead of burning fuel to create it.

Is High-efficiency HVAC Worth It?

If you care about the environment and your monthly bills, then yes. If you plan to stay in your current home for a few years, investing in high-efficiency HVAC equipment is worth it. By how much, depends on which system you choose and what you already have, but efficient HVAC pays for itself over time in the form of lower heating and cooling bills. Saving money upfront on an inefficient solution hurts the pocketbook a little more every time the system runs.

Energy-efficient HVAC Systems Installed by the Indianapolis Pros

From Zionsville to Mooresville, the HVAC experts of One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning of Indianapolis install energy-efficient HVAC systems, including mini-splits, air-source heat pumps, and standard central air. Want help choosing what’s right for you? Call us! Our expert technicians can get your new HVAC in pronto, so you can enjoy the benefits of lower heating and cooling bills. Call us at (317) 795-0373 to set up installation or book online.