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Geo Thermal vs Heat Pump
It is not easy selecting the proper HVAC system for any given structure and most contractors will try to sell you more unit than you really need. Most heating systems are 2 to 3 times larger than they need to be on average (US dept of energy) which causes the unit to cycle up too often, consume a great deal of energy and require more repairs. New HVAC units can have variable speed compressor and fans that save energy as well as higher SEER levels. Undersized HVAC systems won’t cool adequately and oversized units cycle too much, waste large amounts of energy, cause dehumidification problems and require more maintenance. It is far better to have a properly sized unit that cycles up fewer times and runs longer than one that comes on frequently for shorter periods of time. Properly sized units with longer cycle periods will allow it to pull more moisture out of the air and reduce potential mold problems in addition to saving energy from cycling up less frequently.
Unit sizes and SEER levels as well as air heat pump vs. geothermal heat pumps depend on the age of the structure, quality of construction and level of energy efficiency of the building. I have seen many applications of oversized units and geothermal heat pump applications (especially in new construction) that actually lost the owner thousands of dollars over of the life of the unit in initial investment costs and or excessive energy costs. Don’t be caught short and sold more heating and cooling or a Geo Thermal Heat pump that you don’t need or continue to sink money into repairs on an old unit when a new unit will not only pay for itself but also provide you with return on investment. In fact, if your air conditioner is 15 years old it is past it’s life cycle and you will save significantly on your energy costs by replacing it with a newer, more efficient model.
A properly sized new unit will not only put cash back in your pocket it is also better for the environment. In addition, upgrading insulation (even older homes with no insulation in the walls can be insulated at minimal costs), windows and other energy saving features may have a significant impact and relatively short payback periods and allow for a smaller condenser unit.
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New Homes and Remodeling
Energy Efficient Construction
Green Building and Development Techniques
New Homes and Remodeling
Energy Efficient Construction
Green Building and Development Techniques