Why HVAC Efficiency Rating Is Not the Only Important Factor

If you’re in the market for a new heating and cooling system, you’ve probably come across the term “HVAC efficiency rating.” That measures how much energy your system uses to produce a certain amount of heating or cooling. The higher the efficiency rating, the less energy your system will use, and the lower your utility bills will be.

You might think that the efficiency rating is the most crucial factor to consider when choosing a new HVAC system. But the truth is, other factors are just as important, if not more so. Here are four reasons your HVAC system’s efficiency rating only kind of matters:

1. The Efficiency Rating Doesn’t Tell the Whole Story

The efficiency rating only tells you how much energy your system uses to produce a certain amount of heating or cooling. It doesn’t tell you how well your system actually performs. For example, a system with a high efficiency rating might not do an excellent job of evenly heating or cooling your home. Or a system with a low efficiency rating might be very quiet and have features you really want.

2. The Efficiency Rating Doesn’t Take into Account Your Home’s Unique Needs

The efficiency rating is a general measure of a system’s performance. However, your home is unique, and your HVAC system needs to be sized and installed specifically for your property to work optimally. Legacy Heating and Cooling can help you choose the right system for your home and ensure that it’s installed correctly.

3. The Efficiency Rating Doesn’t Tell You How Much the System Will Cost to Operate

The efficiency rating is a measure of how much energy your system uses. But energy isn’t free. You’ll still have to pay for your system’s electricity or gas. The cost of operating an HVAC system depends on the price of energy in your area, and the efficiency rating doesn’t take that into account.

4. The Efficiency Rating Doesn’t Guarantee That You’ll Save Money

A more efficient HVAC system will typically cost more to purchase and install than a less efficient system. But that doesn’t mean that you’ll necessarily save money in the long run. Other factors may affect how much you’ll actually save with your HVAC system.

5. The Efficiency Rating Doesn’t Tell You How Long the System Will Last

The efficiency rating measures how well the system performs, not how long it will last. A more efficient system may not last as long as a less efficient system.

Other Factors Making Your HVAC Less Efficient

Here are four other factors that can make your HVAC system less efficient:

1. Dirty Air Filters

One of the most common reasons an HVAC system becomes less efficient is dirty air filters. Over time, air filters can become clogged with dust, dirt, and other debris. That can restrict airflow and cause your HVAC system to work harder to maintain the indoor temperature.

2. Leaky Ductwork

Another factor that can make your HVAC system less efficient is leaky ductwork. Ductwork is the system of pipes and vents that carries air throughout your home. Leaks in the ductwork can cause your HVAC system to work harder to maintain the indoor temperature. 

3. Poor Insulation

Poor insulation is another factor that can make your HVAC system less efficient. If your home is not adequately insulated, this can cause heat to escape and cool air to enter. That can cause your HVAC system to work harder to regulate the indoor temperature. 

4. Incorrect Thermostat Settings

Another factor that can make your HVAC system less efficient is incorrect thermostat settings. If your thermostat is not set correctly, this can cause your HVAC system to work harder to maintain the indoor temperature. 

Keeping these factors in mind can help ensure that your HVAC system runs efficiently and effectively.

Conclusion

It’s essential to consider various factors when selecting an HVAC system for your home. In addition to efficiency, you’ll want to consider the unit’s size, features, and brand reputation. With so many options on the market, it’s essential to do your research to find the best system for your needs.

At Legacy, we focus on providing top-quality HVAC systems for both new home construction and replacement/installation. We carry a wide range of products, including furnaces, air conditioners, air cleaners, thermostats, humidifiers, heat recovery ventilation (HRV) units, and unit heaters. If you need an HVAC contractor in Calgary and Edmonton, don’t hesitate to give us a call!