Discover a better way to buy HVAC today.
Build Your System
A ductless heat pump is a very efficient and simple heating system replacement for traditional furnaces and electric heaters; it performs the functions of heating as well as cooling. A ductless system offers very easily-controlled air-conditioning and heating that can keep the temperature in the indoor spaces of your home at comfortable levels, right round the year.
What is a Ductless Heat Pump System?
This type of system is also referred to as a ductless mini-split system and is a highly-effective way of heating and cooling your home. It becomes an excellent primary HVAC system in homes that also have electric furnaces and wall heaters. A ductless heat pump system is specifically designed to provide comfort right round the year and it works noiselessly as well. Apart from that, it allows you control & efficiency even as it cuts your electric heating expenses by almost 50%.
How Does a Ductless Heating System Work?
This system functions differently from a standard electric heater, which creates its own heat. A ductless system pulls the heat from the outdoor air and uses it in heating your home. This process can be reversed within the system, to cool your home. A ductless heat pump distributes cool or warm air far more efficiently and quietly than a conventional electric heater.
Ductless Heat Pumps- The Facts
If you are looking for a furnace replacement, a ductless system is an excellent option. Most people are aware of what these systems are, and you may have also seen the indoor units installed on the walls in homes, restaurants as well as office premises. Here is some detailed information and facts about them:
1. Highly Flexible Option
A conventional heat pump & air-conditioning system forces heated and cooled air via ducts. In comparison, a ductless system delivers air directly from the indoor units, into different zones or rooms. These are typically made of an outdoor unit and one/more indoor units, depending on the cooling and heating capacity of the system. The indoor units aren’t connected to the outdoor unit via ducting. Instead they are connected via small pipes that run through a small hole in the wall to the outdoor unit. These kinds of installations make these systems a very flexible option. The indoor units only require mounting units and access to electricity.
They may also be referred to as multi-split, split or split –ductless systems and they are a very cost-efficient way to replace space heaters, electric baseboard heaters and window units that aren’t as efficient. They can be easily installed in new construction, home additions, apartments and condos and are provide you the flexibility to control the temperatures in these individual spaces. A ductless heat pump can also be installed in structures that currently use a ducted heating system.
2. Cost-Efficiency
One of the main reasons why many homeowners opt for these as their furnace replacement is because the ductless systems are highly efficient and can significantly reduce your utility bills. They consume far less power compared to other heating systems, and are more compact in size as well. Since they deliver the heated or cooled air directly in to the room, there is no loss of efficiency.
The multi-split system can also give you the flexibility to create various zones in your home and you don’t have to cool rooms which aren’t occupied. This becomes a distinct money saver. Aside from the money you save, when you install a ductless heating pump, you may also be eligible for utility rebates/tax credits for the year during which you install this system. Regardless of how you look at it, installing a ductless heating system is a win-win for you.
3. Improved Air Quality
Since we shut the windows and doors of our homes in the colder months, often times the indoor air quality is lower than the outdoor air quality. When you have a ducted system, you have to ensure the ducting is cleaned with regularity by professionals. Despite having done this, there are times when allergens and dust tend to linger in the indoor air. In comparison, a ductless system offers multi-stage filtration, which is extremely effective in reducing bacteria, dust, allergens and pollen from the air.
4. Easy and Quick Installation
It can take several weeks to install a ducted system and the work can disrupt the daily activities in your home or office. In comparison, the installation of a ductless system is far less intrusive, based on the total number of outdoor & indoor units that have to be installed. In most instances, it doesn’t take more than a day to install the system and get it running. This means you have less hassle to deal with and don’t have to go through the inconvenience of staying without heating or cooling depending on what the outdoor climate is like.
In these systems, small pipes connect the outdoor unit with the indoor unit, and only a 3” hole is required to be made. Very simply, you don’t have to worry about any damage and rebuilding of walls and ceilings, like the kind that occurs when you get a ducted heating installed in your home or office space.
5. Environment-Friendly
Since these systems are smaller and are used to cool individual rooms or specific zones, they are very energy-efficient and the ones from the best brands always have a high-energy rating. The refrigerant used in these systems is called R410A, which is a zero-ozone depletion refrigerant. This means the ductless heating systems has a very low impact on the environment right through ‘its lifespan and it’s a great way of reducing your carbon footprint.
A ductless system is an ideal heating system replacement as well as a supplemental heating and cooling system for any other HVAC unit that is currently installed on your property. With this unit, you are assured of a comfortable indoor environment right through the year. You should discuss various options with your HVAC contractor to choose the system best –suited to your needs.
Categories for an HVAC Products Store. These categories will soon be organized in the order you would expect to find in any type of HVAC store. Here are the categories:
And more!
This covers the HVAC needs for the typical homeowner attempting to do most of the work themselves.
Air handlers, also known as fan coils, are included on several different types of central HVAC systems. They are most often used with a heat pump system. Air handlers work by using a fan blower system positioned behind a built-in evaporator coil, electric heat element, or a combination of both. When the handler activates, the air is forced through the box and across the coil system, providing conditioned air (warm or cool) on the output side of the air handler and into the duct system of a home. These air handlers can be positioned in an upright position (upflow) or a downward position (downflow). They may also be installed in a horizontal position where the air flows from side to side through the unit, most common in crawl spaces or attics.
Here are some factors to consider if you need to replace your air handler:
Refrigerant Types in the Air Handler: The air handler and HVAC unit must use the same type of refrigerant! This is generally not an issue for most replacement units, since the indoor (air handler) and outdoor (condenser) units are usually replaced at the same time. If you are only changing the condenser, you MUST make sure the air handler can support the new unit. Condensers with an SEER of greater than 13 will probably not function with an air handler that is more than 3 to 4 years old.
Sizing of Air Handlers and Fan Coils: Indoor and outdoor units should have the same capacity. If you install a 3-ton heat pump condensing unit outside, your air handler MUST have a minimum of a 3-ton blower and coil. A system should NEVER have a smaller size indoor air handler than condenser. This will result in a frozen coil. You CAN install a slightly larger air handler than condenser, if your duct system is designed to support the higher airflow. A 3-ton condensing unit would work with a 3 to 4-ton air handler. In some cases, a slightly larger air handler can increase efficiency, but only if properly calibrated by a qualified HVAC professional.
Amana is widely regarded as one of the top producers of HVAC equipment. This manufacturer has a great lineup of furnaces and an unbeatable warranty, making Amana a great value. Here’s more information about the AMH8 gas furnace including features, pricing, warranty, and installation.
Features:
Pricing for Amana units can difficult to find because Amana equipment is only available through local dealers. Amana’s 80 percent efficient furnaces are about $400 to $600 less than a comparable high efficiency furnace. Check out our reviews to learn more about the differences between high and standard efficiency units. Amana offers a 10-year limited warranty on parts and a lifetime unit replacement for the original purchaser if the exchanger fails. This is arguably one of the best warranties in the industry. Amanda requires that you register your warranty within 60 days. Please also note that Amana does not honor the warranty on any equipment purchased online or by phone unless the vender is also installing the unit.
We recommend using a qualified HVAC contractor to install this or any other heat or AC unit. Find a reputable company that will stand by their products and labor. The way the unit is installed is almost as important that the equipment itself, a poor install job means poor performance! A properly installed furnace will operate at a higher efficiency and save you money on utility fees.
Aire-Flo is a budget line of HVAC equipment produced by Lennox. The Aire Flo CG92 gas furnace is an affordable gas furnace that offers good quality and reliable service. This is a good option if you’re looking for a furnace with long, 15-plus year longevity and basic features. It is popular with homeowners and property owners who want an affordable unit with decent performance. Even though the furnace has a single-stage burner, it does have a variable-speed blower to prevent full-speed blasts of cool air at the start a cycle. The 92.1 percent efficiency is Energy Star qualified and will help reduce energy costs in any climate. Use this review to learn more about the Aire Flo CG92 Model CG92TB045D12B and compare it to others on the market. We have included information about features, pricing, and the warranty.
Here are a few of the key features:
Pricing: It will be difficult to find another furnace that is this efficient at this price point. It is a great value and a popular choice for those who want an inexpensive, reliable furnace. It often used for primary residences, second homes and cottages, garages and other “part-time” applications.
Warranty: This unit includes a lifetime limited coverage warranty for the heat exchanger and a 5-year parts warranty. This is below the industry average but fortunately this furnace has a good service record and should last up to 15 years, possibly more with good maintenance.
Quality Installation will Maximize Longevity: We recommend having this unit installed by a qualified professional. Expert installation will ensure that your unit operates as it should. The technician will have the know-how not only to install the unit, but to adjust the system to achieve the highest efficiency, based on the needs of your home.
Buying a new heat pump can be a daunting task. It’s a big financial decision that will impact your energy use and utility bills for years to come. Here are a few things to keep in mind when looking for your next heat pump.
Match the Heat Pump to your Climate
If you experience extreme heat in the summer, then you’ll want to consider a heat pump with a high SEER rating, perhaps more than 17 SEER. Moderate climates that have warm but not extreme summers, could stand to have a 15-17 SEER model. There are some places with mild summers and mild winters – like San Diego or Northern California. People living in those climates could easily go with a 13 to 15 SEER unit. If temperatures are often below 32 degrees in the winter, consider a dual fuel heat pump which alternates heating with a gas furnace. The heat pump runs when temperatures are above freezing and the furnace takes over when they go below freezing. They have the efficiency a heat pump and the functionality of a gas furnace.
Consider Brand and Model of the Heat Pump
Consider a top brand or series if you are planning to stay in your home long-term. This would include brands like Trane, Lennox, Carrier, Heil, Bryant, Maytag, or American Standard. The next-best brands are Rheem, Ruud, Armstrong, Ducane, Goodman, Amana, York, and Luxaire. Value brands are Payne, Coleman, Aire-Flo, and a few others. The top series in each brand typically features the highest-efficiency models, but the other series can have some Energy Star products, too. Check out the manufacturers website to compare products. If you are not in your permanent home, consider purchasing a lower-priced, less efficient heat pump. A mid-range unit would be a good choice.
Decide How Important Precise Climate Control is
There are models with single-stage, 2-stage, and modulating compressors. Single-stage run at full capacity all the time and can produce temperature swings and hot/cold zones in a home. Two-stage models offer gentler, more balanced heating and cooling; modulating models are as good as it gets. Modulating systems afford users extremely balanced temperatures and lower humidity in summer, especially when you the pump is matched with a variable-speed air handler. Of course, single-stage models are the most affordable and modulating heat pumps are very expensive.
Eco-Friendly Heat Pumps
All heat pumps now use eco-friendly R-410A refrigerant. If the environment is a concern, then choose the most efficient model you can afford. The most efficient models offer cooling of 20 plus SEER and 10 plus HSPF. The most efficient models are typically made by the top manufacturers.
Get Multiple Estimates from Heat Pump Dealers
Check with at least three contractors before you make your decision. Comparing prices will help you make the best possible decision for your home and potentially make the contractors compete for your business! Make sure that a qualified contractor installs your heat pump. If it is not installed correctly, it will not run at peak efficiency and may be prone to breakdowns. Choose a company with a good track record and reputation in your area.
Keep your Heat Pump Maintained
Clean and service your split system every 1 to 3 years, depending on how heavily they are used. This will ensure that your unit runs at its most repair bills during the life of the heat pump. Small repairs can be caught and taken care of before they lead to expensive ones.
What makes a good HVAC unit? It depends. What is important to you? Are you looking for something that combines high efficiency with precise control of indoor air quality? Or are you looking for something uniquely suited to your home or intended use? No matter what your motivation, we have the information you need to make the best HVAC decision.
Top-Rated HVAC Systems on the Market
There are a few models that stand out from the rest when you consider consumer HVAC reviews and independent testing. Here are five of the top-rated HVAC systems:
1. Carrier Infinity Series: This is simply one of the best units on the market today. It combines high efficiency and outstanding indoor comfort. It is controlled by the Infinity touchscreen programmable thermostat.
2. Trane XLi Series: This model offers several levels of efficiency. It has excellent performance, assisted by two compressors for precise climate control. This unit gives Carrier a run for its money!
3. Dave Lennox Signature Series: This is the top-of-the-line from one of the best brands in the HVAC industry. It is known as being a high performer with high quality.
4. American Standard Platinum Series: American Standard offers several efficiency levels to match your unit to your climate. The comfort control is outstanding and has minimal temperature fluctuation. There are humidity-control, air filtration, and home ventilation products available as well.
5. Maytag 1200 iQ Drive Comfort System: The air conditioners and heat pumps in this series are some of the most efficient available. They are built with a modulating compressor for precise and efficient climate control.
Choosing the Best HVAC Systems for Your Home
A good approach to selecting a HVAC unit is to select one that will meet the specific needs of your home. Some homeowners may be looking for the most efficient, while others want superior climate control and performance. Others may be budget-minded and want a unit with the lowest up-front cost. Whatever your motivation, here are a few factors to consider before choosing your next HVAC unit.
1. In extremely warm or cold climates, high-efficiency equipment is the most cost-effective in the long-term. The units will be more expensive up-front, but will save a great deal of utility costs over their lifespan. They typically pay for themselves after three to five years of use.
2. In moderate climates like San Diego, northern California, the Pacific northwest, and some mountainous areas in the south, the lower-efficiency equipment is the most cost-effective. It will take 10 years or more for a high-efficiency unit to pay for itself in these regions. There are still many units available that provide great comfort with mediocre efficiency. This includes the Lennox Signature or Trane XLi series.
3. If reducing your carbon footprint is important to you, then choose the most-efficient unit you can afford, regardless of where you live.
4. Consider how long you plan to stay in your current home. If you plan to move within the next five years, don’t spend a lot of money on a high-efficiency model. Get one with good quality and minimal efficiency to save on up-front costs.
5. Homeowners seeking to lower their utility bills but are content with single-stage heating and air conditioning should choose a basic HVAC systems with a 15 to 17 SEER. They should get a furnace with an efficiency in the low-90 percent range.
Amana is a high-end HVAC company and the Amana ASZC18 18 SEER heat pump is its top-of-the-line. This unit is efficient, reliable, and comes with an unbeatable warranty. It is a bit more expensive than some other comparable heat pumps, but no other units on the market today comes with the reliability and warranty of an Amana. HVAC costs vary according to the cost of living in your area, local competition, and seasons. Be sure to get several written estimates before committing to an installation company. Below is more information about the features of this model.
Efficiency Level: 18 SEER air conditioning; 9.5 HSPF heating (Energy Star qualified)
Compressor: Reliable two-stage Copeland UltraTech scroll compressor for balanced, quiet performance
R-410 Refrigerant: Yes (eco-friendly)
Equipment Features: Compressor blanket and other noise reduction accessories, pressure switches and filter dryer provide for better compressor longevity, ComfortNet communications available as an option for better system control and monitoring
Warranty: Amana offers one of the best warranties in the industry. Every unit comes with a 10-year limited warranty on parts and a lifetime limited warranty on the heat exchanger. This warranty is for the original owner and is not transferable. Amana does not honor this warranty on any equipment purchased online or over the phone unless the seller installs the unit.
Amana ASZC18 18 SEER Heat Pump Costs:
Amana ASZC18 18 SEER Heat Pump Installation Costs:
Average Installed Costs:
Protect your Investment: We recommend choosing an experienced, quality HVAC technician to install your unit. The unit will only work as well as it is installed, and a poor installation will mean higher energy bills for you and a shorter life for your unit. A good HVAC technician will have the know-how to install the unit and ability to calibrate it to your home’s specific needs so you’re getting the most for your money. If installed correctly and maintained annually, this model will keep your utility bills down with reliable service for 20 years or more.
You may think that you can’t afford a central air conditioner, but we’re here to tell you that there are several quality units that cost less than $2,000 to consider. Air conditioners that cost less than $2,000 are typically single-stage and not very efficient. These units would be a good choice for someone who lives in a mild climate where summers aren’t too hot, who is planning to move within the next five years, or who doesn’t live in the home year-round and would only use the unit on a part-time basis. Think vacation homes, cottages, guest apartments, etc. Below is more information about the top central ACs that cost less than $2,000!
1. Goodman 16 SEER SSX16 Central Air Conditioner
This is an Energy Star unit with single-stage operation. It could work well in moderate and warm climates, but not hot climates. It comes with a lifetime compressor warranty, a rarity in this industry. This unit will give you the most efficiency for the money with a 16 SEER.
2. Rheem Prestige RAPL-JEZ Central Air Conditioner
This 14 SEER unit is part of Rheem’s top-of-the-line series. It comes with a 10-year parts warranty and a 5-year unit replacement warranty on the compressor. If the compressor fails in the first five years, Rheem will replace the entire AC.
3. Amana ASX14 Central Air Conditioner
The Amanda ASX14 it built with the industry-leading Copeland Scroll compressor. The compressor is backed by a lifetime warranty and the remaining parts are covered by a 10-year parts warranty. This unit very similar to the Goodman 16 SEER SSX16, although not as efficient.
4. Armstrong Model 4SCU14LE Central Air Conditioner
Armstrong recently revamped its HVAC line and the 4SCU14LE is a great new innovation. This Energy Star unit has a 14.5 SEER rating and comes with a 10-year parts warranty that is just as good as Carrier Infinity air conditioners.
5. Ruud Ultra Series UANL-JEZ
With a 13 SEER, this is not an Energy Start units. It is a single-stage air conditioner is built with quality parts. The Ultra Series is considered Ruud’s top-of-the-line.
6. Bryant Legacy 113A Central Air Conditioner
This is another single-stage unit with a 13 SEER. Even though it is not Energy Star-rated, it offers good quality and performance. It is backed by a comprehensive 10-year warranty, which is above average for models with this efficiency.
7. American Standard Silver SI Air Conditioner
This is a quality single-stage unit with a 13 SEER. It is made by one of the top brands in the industry.
Check out our other ratings and reviews to learn more information about any of these units. You can shop and compare to determine what AC would work best in your home. Once you pick a unit, be sure to have it installed by a qualified HVAC professional. Proper installation will ensure that your unit runs with the highest possible performance and efficiency for many years to come.
The Amana Distinctions GPC14H is a quality AC with a good customer reputation. It is an ideal air conditioner for a home in a warm climate, in a home without a basement, or in a home where another source of heat is also installed. It’s lower efficiency with a 14 SEER, but that is average for a packaged unit. This model does not include a furnace but can provide heat with strips from 5kW to 20kW in the air handler. If you need a gas furnace, consider Amana’s gas packaged units.This review will include information about features, pricing, warranty, and installation.
Features
Pricing: Overall, this is an affordable unit that would work well in a warm climate. Amana makes a similar unit that is slightly more efficient with a 15 SEER, which would be even better for very warm areas. Here is the current pricing for these units:
Warranty: Amana is well-known for its competitive warranties. This model is covered by a 10-year comprehensive warranty. The unit, when properly maintained, should give you 15 to 20 years of reliable service with minimal repairs.
Professional Installation for Better Results: We recommend choosing an experienced, quality HVAC technician to install your unit. The unit will only work as well as it is installed, and a poor installation will mean higher energy bills for you and a shorter life for your unit. A good HVAC technician will have the know-how to install the unit and ability to calibrate it to your home’s specific needs so you’re getting the most for your money. If installed correctly, this model will keep your utility bills down with reliable service for 20 years or more.