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types of hvac systems

5 Types of HVAC Systems to Consider for Your Home

Most modern homes have an HVAC system to handle heating and cooling. If you need a new HVAC system in your house, it can be challenging to know where to start.

Today, the team at Eastern Shore Heating and Air Conditioning discusses the most common types of HVAC systems you should consider for your home. 

Contact us today for reliable HVAC service professionals in Toms River, NJ!

Most Common Types of HVAC Systems

1. Split System

A split system is the most common type of HVAC system. It consists of an AC unit and a heating unit that work together to control temperatures. Typical split systems have an indoor furnace unit, often in the basement or garage, and an outdoor AC unit. 

Split systems with an AC and furnace unit are also known as forced air systems. They use various fans and motors to distribute hot and cool air through your ductwork and into your home.

Split systems are very cost-effective and easy to install and replace. They are also very energy-efficient if you live in temperate areas without major temperature fluctuations. 

The main downsides of split systems are their required space and noise. Split systems need a duct system, which can be expensive to install. Split systems can also produce a lot of noise, which could pose a problem for light sleepers. 

2. Hybrid Split System

Hybrid split systems are similar to regular split systems in containing separate heating and cooling units with a ductwork distribution system. The main difference is that hybrid split systems have gas/electric hybrid heaters. As such, homeowners can choose between running their heat on gas or electricity. 

Hybrid systems have excellent energy efficiency, as you can switch between electricity and gas for heating. You can also change usage to save money on utility bills, depending on the costs of electricity and gas. 

Many of the disadvantages are the same as regular split systems. Hybrid systems take up a lot of space and can create a lot of noise. They are also usually more expensive to install than a traditional split system. 

3. Ductless Mini Split System

Ductless mini-split systems are a low-cost alternative to traditional split systems. They have heating/cooling units distributed throughout rooms in your house.

Most of the time, these units mount into windows and walls. The main difference between split and mini-split systems is that mini-splits do not require ductwork or vents. 

Mini-split systems are a great choice if you need targeted heating/cooling in a single room and want to conserve energy as much as possible. Ductless systems also allow you to precisely control temperatures in individual rooms instead of throughout the whole house. 

One drawback of ductless systems is that they produce relatively less heat than other types of HVAC systems. They are often not a good choice for houses in colder climates. 

4. Heat Pumps

Heat pumps are an alternative HVAC system that uses pipes and pumps to extract heat from the ground or air. Unlike split systems and ductless systems, heat pumps don’t produce heat but move it from one place to another. Heat pumps have an expansion valve so you can reverse the flow of heat depending on the season. 

Houses use two types of heat pump systems: air and geothermal. Air heat pumps extract heat from the air, while geothermal pumps extract heat that radiates from the ground. Some heat pumps combine air and geothermal heat extraction.  

Heat pumps are highly energy-efficient because they don’t use gas or electricity to produce heat. They are also very low-maintenance and long-lasting. However, these devices have rather high upfront costs due to installation requirements. 

5. Packaged HVAC Systems

Packaged systems consist of singular HVAC units that contain a heating and cooling system in an air handler. In other words, these types of HVAC systems combine split systems into a single piece of equipment. 

Packaged systems are energy-efficient and easy to install in an attic or upper-floor storage space. They produce less heat than average, so they are best for homes in warmer climates that don’t require substantial heating in the winter. 

Contact the HVAC Professionals in Toms River!

Now that you’re familiar with the types of HVAC systems, visit our blog to learn what a smart thermostat is. If you’d like a free estimate in Toms River, NJ, contact Eastern Shore Heating and Air Conditioning by filling out our online form. You can also call us at (732) 800-9416!