Building a dream home? Great. Have you put as much thought into your HVAC system as you have other aspects of your house? Be advised: The HVAC system is the most expensive and sophisticated appliance in your home, and how well it operates depends on the quality of the installation. Plan well.
Here are several things to think about when you talk to your consultant about planning the HVAC system in your new home.
Sizing
One of the main reasons an HVAC system doesn’t cool or heat effectively is because it’s the wrong size. If it’s too large, it short-cycles, turning on and off and wasting energy — and eventually breaking down. Too small and it runs all the time. Make sure your HVAC consultant does a thorough job of gathering specifications for your home and uses industry software to calculate the right capacity needed for heating and cooling and the right size of the equipment.
Smart Technology
You have an opportunity to include integrated smart home technology into your dwelling, so think carefully about what you want. While it won’t necessarily increase your home’s value, smart technology can be important for your comfort, convenience, and efficiency. Don’t be lured by gadgets and lots of apps; look into a home automation system where you can set up schedules, and work through one central app with buttons. Integrated home systems may last longer (with installer support) than stand-alone devices, which may become obsolete more quickly.
Ductwork Design and Capacity
Another major pitfall in HVAC design is the ductwork system. Again, your software consultant should use software to determine the right size of the ductwork to handle the movement of air in your home. Discuss the ductwork design, asking why it is the right one for your home.
Add-Ons
You may want to add other types of equipment to your system, such as ventilation for moving out stale air and adding fresh air; a dehumidification system; or an air purifier. You’re better off doing it during installation than later.
For more on HVAC design, contact CCAC. We serve Corpus Christi and the surrounding area.