Over the past decade, homeowners in the St. Louis metro area have increasingly experienced temperature extremes. Climate change is becoming more prevalent, and with it, residential HVAC systems work harder for longer periods. These changes can shorten the lifespan of your indoor comfort system. When the time comes to replace your HVAC equipment, the new system will most likely have different characteristics from what you currently have.
Changes in Sizing Factors
Correctly sizing a building is a crucial factor in recommending appropriate HVAC systems. Traditionally, professionals have used historical climate data to perform load calculations when sizing a home. This practice is now evolving. More pros now use climate prediction software, such as CoolCalc, to determine maximum cooling and heating loads. This change fundamentally alters how consumers buy HVAC systems.
Choosing the right size unit impacts system efficiency. The wrong-sized system will short-cycle, meaning it will frequently turn on and off. Short-cycling can occur when your HVAC system is oversized or undersized, and it increases your energy bills.
Shifting Climate Impacts System Sizing
Regions once considered temperate have become hotter. While our area of the Midwest has always had hot, humid summers, those conditions have intensified. In winter, longer cold spells occur, straining heating systems. To accommodate these temperatures, you may require an HVAC system with a larger capacity. Having sufficient capacity will help increase system life and prevent system overload and failure because capacity plus modulation matter in addition to size.
Increasing Focus on Peak-Load Efficiency
Energy efficiency accompanies the need for systems with larger capacity. Larger systems cost more to run, especially when used for extended periods. For cooling purposes, homeowners will want to look for systems with updated SEER/EER ratings, as these are the most highly efficient units. The most energy-efficient units have variable-speed compressors to reduce energy consumption.
Energy-efficient gas furnaces have an AFUE rating of 90% or higher. They also typically have a variable-speed blower, a modulating gas valve and a dual heat exchanger to maximize gas use. For the most energy-efficient heating and cooling, consider a heat pump, which transfers heat from one area to another. Heat pumps are generally the most efficient indoor comfort systems. However, these units must also have proper sizing to operate at peak efficiency. Moving toward electric heat pumps and solar panels to power them can also help mitigate climate change.
The Need for Advanced Controls
Every HVAC generation comes with new features, but many contemporary systems have advanced features that help adapt to climate extremes. Features like smart thermostats adjust indoor temperatures and system settings based on real-time weather data and occupancy sensors. Investing in an HVAC system with such controls helps you optimize energy use and extend its lifespan. As weather patterns become more volatile, your HVAC can adapt more easily.
Sustainability Concerns
Sustainability should also be a key factor in your HVAC selection process. Select systems that use environmentally friendly refrigerants with a lower global warming potential than traditional refrigerants. Homeowners should also look for systems designed for easy maintenance and durability. Durable systems reduce repair frequency and cost, and lower waste and resource consumption through a longer lifespan.
Changing Air Quality
Climate change also impacts indoor air quality. Rising temperatures and the lack of rain can spark devastating wildfires. Even though such events may occur thousands of miles away, upper air currents can bring wildfire smoke to our region. These particulates and other air pollutants can clog an HVAC system, making it run less efficiently.
To address the challenges of indoor air quality, consider an HVAC system with advanced filtration technologies. High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters improve air quality but may need to be supplemented. Consider adding ultraviolet germicidal lights or a built-in air cleaner to eliminate airborne pollutants and allergens. Similarly, higher summer humidity can promote mold and mildew growth. Adding a dehumidifier can help prevent these allergens from growing.
Enhance Your Comfort Today
At Bone Heating & Cooling, our professionals can help you balance system performance with environmental stewardship. Through education and careful consideration, you can ensure your HVAC system will provide indoor comfort. It will also adapt to and mitigate the effects of climate change. Count on us for sound advice on HVAC installation, and other services like repair, maintenance, and indoor air quality.
Schedule a consultation with Bone Heating & Cooling today to learn more about new HVAC installation.
