How HVAC Systems Work

Choosing a System for Your Home

In the Houston and surrounding markets, there are two types of ducted system options to consider: Air Conditioners or Heat Pumps. Both are comprised of an outdoor unit and indoor equipment, typically located in the attic, but use different technologies to cool and heat your home. Another option to consider in cooling smaller spaces are mini splits.

Central Air Conditioners

Central air conditioners for your home are typically Split-System Central Air Conditioners. These have an outdoor unit containing the heat exchanger, fan, and compressor, and an indoor unit with the heat exchanger and blower. If you already have a furnace but no air conditioner, consider installing a heat pump instead of a split-system air conditioner. A heat pump can provide both heating and cooling efficiently.

Heat Pump Systems

Heat pumps offer an energy-efficient alternative to furnaces and air conditioners for all climates. Like your refrigerator, heat pumps use electricity to transfer heat from a cool space to a warm space, making the cool space cooler and the warm space warmer. During the cooling season, heat pumps move heat from your house to the outdoors, and during the heating season, they move heat from the cool outdoors into your warm house. Because they transfer heat rather than generate heat, heat pumps can efficiently provide comfortable temperatures for your home.

Mini Split Systems

Ductless minisplit heat pumps (also called “minisplits”) are an excellent option for retrofitting houses with non-ducted systems. They are also ideal for room additions where extending or installing distribution ductwork is not feasible and for very efficient new homes that require only a small space conditioning system. For maximum energy savings, choose an ENERGY STAR® certified unit and hire an experienced installer.

Single-zone Systems

A single-zone system is best if you are looking to efficiently cool and heat a single room or space.

Multi-zone Systems

Multi-zone systems allow you to set room-by-room temperature preferences for up to five zones.

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