Whenever new technology becomes available in the field of heating and cooling, it can be challenging to tell whether a smart HVAC system will live up to its hype in the real world. While some advances in HVAC technology work best in large scale applications, others do make a difference in residential settings with regard to energy consumption and greater indoor comfort.
The three technologies that are worth considering for an HVAC upgrade for your home include:
- Zoning systems. Many homes benefit from zoning systems that combine varying degrees of smart technology, but even the most mechanically basic is worth the hype. A zoned HVAC system senses which areas of your home need conditioned air and delivers it only to those spaces.
It uses separate thermostats, mechanical dampers in the ductwork, and a central control panel to open and close the ductwork segments. The U.S. Department of Energy reports that a zoning system equipped with programmable thermostats reduces energy bills up to 30 percent. - Variable-speed technology. In climates like ours, a smart HVAC system with variable speeds make a lot of sense. Summers are hot and winters chilly, which means that your HVAC system runs frequently during both seasons.
An HVAC unit that a variable-speed compressor and air handler adjusts its running speed to the amount of conditioned air your home needs. It will run on its lower speeds most of the time, which saves energy, improves air quality, and condenses more humidity from the air.
When you’re looking at systems with variable-speed technology, look for those with inverter technology in the compressor and an electronically commutated motor (ECM) in the air handler. - Programmable thermostats. Wi-Fi thermostats and those with motion and humidity sensors can save you money and improve comfort, especially if you’re away from home frequently. You can monitor and control your system remotely, and change its settings depending on the weather and home occupancy patterns.
These features in a smart HVAC system are worth exploring as upgrades or for a complete system upgrade. For more information, contact Jackson & Sons, providing HVAC services for Eastern North Carolina homeowners.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Eastern North Carolina (including Wayne, Johnston, Greene, Lenoir, Pitt and Duplin Counties) about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).
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