WHAT FACTORS INFLUENCE SYSTEM COST?

Considering costs and benefits

Beyond the purchase price
Choosing which heating and cooling system is appropriate for your home is one of the most important decisions you will make. When considering which system is most cost-effective, the purchase price is not the only thing to consider. A system that has a higher efficiency rating is more expensive, but will result in saving more money in the long run.

There are several aspects of your home which will affect the decision making for choosing the best system. Depending on the needs of your home, there is a product and method of installation to meet each need. Consider the following aspects which will affect the cost and installation method of your home’s new system.

Home Construction
The way your home is constructed can affect the size (capacity) of your air conditioning and heating system. For example, insulation can play a role. R-values tell you the insulation’s resistance to heat flow: the higher the R-value, the more resistant. Insulation with higher R-values can help decrease the system size you will need for your home. Lower R-values may mean that the capacity of your system has to be increased in order to keep your home comfortable.

Homes with well-insulated windows, doors, walls, roofs, attics, floors, basements, and crawl spaces, along with sealed exterior cracks and seams, typically require less air conditioning and heating than homes that are not as well insulated. As a result, the heating and air conditioning system can much more effectively and efficiently keep your home comfortable. You will save money and your home’s system will have a longer life.

Home Location
The region where you live will also affect the size of your heating and air conditioning system. For example, a home located in the southern half of the United States will require a larger capacity air conditioning system than a similar home in the northern half of the United States. Of course, a home located in the northern half of the United States will need a larger heating capacity requirement than a home in the South.

Home Direction
The direction your home faces is another consideration in determining system size. For example, a home with more exterior wall areas that face south and west will need greater air conditioning capacity than one with more exterior wall area facing north and east. If your home has a large window area that faces south or west, you will need greater air conditioning capacity, as well.

Ductwork
Ductwork is the air distribution system in your home that directs and delivers heated or cooled air. It has a significant impact on system performance and plays an integral role in determining your home’s room-to-room comfort. If you have rooms in your home which are too hot or too cold, it may be time to replace your home’s aging system including the ductwork. With a properly designed and installed duct system, your home’s comfort and energy saving will be irreplaceable.