AC Replacement Hickory

Frequently Asked Questions about AC Replacement

What are the different types of air conditioners?

There are various types of air conditioners to choose from:

• Central AC Units: Ideal for whole-home cooling using ductwork to circulate cool air. They're energy-efficient and provide consistent cooling throughout your home.
• Ductless Mini-Splits: Best for homes without existing ductwork, these systems have indoor and outdoor units that provide zoned cooling. Mini-splits can offer significant energy savings and greater control over your home's temperature.
• Window AC Units: A good option for smaller spaces or apartments. Window units are generally easy to install.
• Portable AC Units: Similar to window units, but portable. Consider portability when access to windows might be difficult.
• Heat Pumps: These systems can both heat and cool. Heat pumps are energy-efficient, especially in mild to moderate climates.
• Geothermal Heat Pumps: Geothermal heat pumps use ground temperature to heat and cool your home. Though they require a significant upfront investment, the long-term energy savings are substantial.

A qualified HVAC technician can help you choose the right air conditioner for your home and recommend the best cooling system for your specific requirements and budget.

How does HVAC zoning work?

HVAC zoning creates multiple, independently controlled areas, each with its own thermostat. Rather than conditioning the whole building evenly, you can target specific rooms or areas based on occupancy. A zoning system typically involves installing dampers in the ductwork that open and close to regulate airflow to different zones. Zoning improves comfort and energy efficiency.

What size AC unit do I need for my home?

Don't guess at AC unit size! An incorrectly sized system can be very inefficient. An undersized unit will struggle to cool your home adequately, while an oversized unit cycles inefficiently, resulting in higher costs and a shorter lifespan. An HVAC professional will perform a load calculation to determine the right size for your home. The calculation accounts for factors like square footage, insulation, windows, and climate. Get in touch with an HVAC contractor through HVACCompaniesHub for a professional load calculation.

What is a heat pump, and how does it work?

A heat pump is an HVAC system that can both heat and cool. It extracts and moves heat between the indoor and outdoor air. In the summer, the heat pump works like an AC unit, just like a traditional air conditioner. In the winter, it reverses this process, absorbing heat from the outside air (even in cold temperatures) and transferring it inside to warm your home. Heat pumps are highly efficient for both heating and cooling, making them a good alternative to traditional furnaces and air conditioners, especially in mild to moderate climates.