As one of the best HVAC contractors in Toledo, Ohio, we specialize in finding the right HVAC system for our clients. Our HVAC technicians know every HVAC unit on the market, and whether you are looking for something straightforward like your traditional gas furnace, a complicated zone setup with a ductless mini-split, or even a geothermal system that will offer resale value, our team is the heating and cooling contractor who can help. With that in mind, we have brought together our top professionals to create a comprehensive guide to choosing the right HVAC system for your home.
Things to Consider
Home Size and Layout
When deciding on the right heating and cooling system, your home’s layout may be one of the most important factors to consider. For instance, if you have existing ductwork or a larger home (over 2,000 square feet), you will most likely want to consider a centralized system to evenly heat and cool the home. Comparatively, if you have a smaller home or no existing ductwork, a ductless mini-split could be a viable option for a home in Toledo, Ohio.
Climate Zone
As a Toledo-based HVAC company, we know that not all HVAC systems work in the Ohio Valley. We have frigid winters and humid summers, so finding a heating and cooling solution suited to our climate zone is important. Toledo is in the USDA Hardiness Zone 6a, which means we need heating options that can work down to -10 F. These specifics matter, as if you are looking to install a heat pump, you will also need to install additional heating, such as baseboard heaters or an electric furnace, to help out on those very cold days.
Energy Efficiency Ratings
Energy efficiency is the name of the game if you are looking to replace your existing HVAC units. Whether you are installing an air conditioner, furnace or even a ductless system, investing in a high-efficiency unit will save you money over the long term. In general, when it comes to efficiency ratings, the higher, the better. On the air conditioner side, you will want to know and understand SEER2 and SEER ratings. For furnaces, AFUE measures efficiency, and 90%+ is considered high efficiency. Finally, heat pumps are measured in HSPF2 and HSPF.
Common Systems
There are a few common HVAC systems we see here in Toledo, OH, and finding the right fit for your home for a new installation or replacement depends on several factors.
Split Systems
Split systems are the most common option on the market today and consist of an indoor furnace with an air handler for heating and an outdoor air conditioner for cooling, which uses the air handler to distribute the cooled air. These systems are efficient, can run on natural gas, propane, or electricity, and are often a little more budget-friendly than other systems on the market.
Heat Pump
Heat pump systems have been growing in popularity over the past several years due to their all-in-one operation that includes heating and cooling, and the overall cost savings of these efficient units. Here in Toledo, Ohio, heat pumps do need to be paired with an alternative heating method to ensure your home has the heat it needs to get through these bone-chilling nights.
Ductless Mini-Splits
Ductless mini-splits are a great option for those looking to retrofit an existing home or who would prefer zoned heating for an in-law suite or multiple suites within their building. This heating and cooling system is known for its quiet operation and can be installed wall-mounted, ceiling-recessed, or floor-mounted, depending on your specific needs.
Geothermal Systems
A little less common due to upfront costs, geothermal systems use the Earth’s natural heating and cooling to keep your home nice and toasty. Whether you use a vertical or horizontal loop, these systems will keep utility bills to a minimum while delivering a superior HVAC experience.
From complex geothermal systems to heat pumps and hybrid heating and cooling units, the team at Fry is here to help guide you through the HVAC installation or replacement process and ensure that you get the right-sized HVAC system for your home. There is nothing worse than investing in something as crucial as cooling and heating and not getting the right system for your needs. So, the next time you need to install a new HVAC system or replace an existing one, make sure to give Fry a call and see why we are the best residential HVAC contractor in Toledo, Ohio, firsthand.
