Installing HVAC in a New Home

Sometimes the excitement of picking out finishes for your new home leads you to forget the big picture. Make sure the big-ticket systems will work for you in the long run.

To ensure that your furnace and air conditioner are equipped to meet your needs, consider these essential factors: 

1. Insulation

Insulation dramatically affects the energy efficiency of your home. Poor insulation can make your HVAC system work harder to keep you comfortable, while well-insulated walls, floors, and ceilings can help your HVAC system run more efficiently.

Most HVAC manufacturers recommend a minimum of R-13 insulation for walls and R-19 for ceilings to ensure comfort and efficiency.

2. Unit Placement

Air conditioners and furnaces are designed to work in a specific location in one room. When you plan your new home, think about where you will install them. Most furnaces are placed in the basement, and most air conditioners are placed in the attic.

3. Ductwork

Ductwork directly affects the efficiency of your system. Good ductwork requires fewer twists and turns to deliver air to the fitting rooms, reducing energy loss from friction.

The best way to ensure good ductwork is to contact a professional to take duct measurements during the building process. Ductwork cut to fit in place is nearly always more efficient than trimmed ductwork after the walls are closed.

4. Size

The size of your home largely determines the size of your HVAC system. If you’re building a new home and the HVAC system will only be one of many installed, you need to allow for future growth. A larger unit will cost less over time, as it will run less often to keep your home at the temperature you want.

5. Efficiency Ratings

If you are shopping for a new HVAC system, consider the Energy Star rating of each unit on your list. Energy Star-rated equipment can help you save up to 30 percent on utility bills and reduce greenhouse gases and pollutants.

Although Energy Star rated equipment costs more upfront, the savings you will receive over time can help you offset the higher initial cost. If you live in a state where rebates are offered, using this money to pay for a more efficient system may also pay for itself.

6. Design

The best HVAC system for your home may not be the one that fits the best. Some features you may want in your new home can be hard to find and add to the cost of your system. Energy efficiency, access to your ductwork, and size are all important to consider when deciding on the right equipment.

7. Warranty

A good warranty can make a big difference in the quality and longevity of your new system. Most manufacturers offer a 10- to 20-year warranty for their equipment. When you buy, look for a product with a good warranty.

8. Extras

While a basic system is the most efficient, there are several bells and whistles available for your HVAC system that may affect your system’s efficiency. If you plan to install these extras, compare how much energy usage will change with the addition of each.

Conclusion

Ensuring that your new home is built to last is essential in terms of resale value, but it also helps you enjoy your home as you live in it. By taking the time to make sure the HVAC system you install will work for you well into the future, you can be confident that you have a home that will keep you comfortable for years.

At Legacy, we specialize in HVAC systems for residential new home construction (RNC) and installation and replacement of furnaces, air conditioners, air cleaners, thermostats, humidifiers, heat recovery ventilation (HRV) units, humidifiers, and unit heaters, as well as other HVAC products! We offer the most comprehensive and cost-effective HVAC products and services in Edmonton and Calgary’s surrounding areas. With many decades of experience in the field, we pride ourselves on putting quality and customers first! If you need HVAC maintenance in Edmonton, AB, we’ve got you covered. Get in touch with us today and let us know how we can help!