Selecting new HVAC equipment is a significant decision affecting comfort, costs, and home value for years to come. Here is what to consider.
Understand Your Options
Central AC with Gas Furnace: Traditional setup using existing ductwork. Reliable technology. Separate heating and cooling equipment.
Heat Pump: Single system providing both heating and cooling by moving heat rather than generating it. Highly efficient in the Bay Area mild climate. Options include air-source and mini-splits.
Ductless Mini-Split: Heat pump technology without ductwork. Excellent for homes without ducts, additions, or zoning needs.
Hybrid/Dual-Fuel: Heat pump with gas furnace backup for extremely cold weather. Provides efficiency of heat pump most of the time.
Sizing Matters
Proper sizing is critical. Oversized systems cycle too frequently, causing comfort and efficiency problems. Undersized systems run constantly and never reach setpoint.
Proper sizing requires a Manual J load calculation accounting for: - Home square footage - Insulation levels - Window types and orientation - Local climate - Number of occupants
Beware contractors who size based only on square footage or previous system size.
Efficiency Ratings
SEER (AC and heat pumps - cooling): Higher is better. Minimum is 14-15. High efficiency is 18-21. Premium reaches 24+.
HSPF (heat pumps - heating): Higher is better. Standard is 8-9. High efficiency is 10+.
AFUE (furnaces): Higher is better. Standard is 80%. High efficiency condensing furnaces are 95-98%.
Higher efficiency costs more upfront but saves on operating costs. Calculate payback based on your usage patterns.
Bay Area Considerations
Mild climate favors heat pumps. Heat pump efficiency remains high in typical Bay Area temperatures. Many homeowners find heat pumps more economical than gas furnaces.
Fog belt homes may not need AC. If you rarely need cooling, invest heating budget in efficiency. Consider mini-splits for occasional cooling.
Inland areas need robust cooling. Heat waves stress AC systems. Size appropriately and consider higher efficiency for heavy cooling use.
Victorian and older homes. Ductless systems may be better than trying to retrofit ductwork into historic structures.
Beyond Equipment
System performance depends on more than equipment:
Ductwork condition: Leaky ducts waste 20-30% of conditioned air. Consider duct sealing or replacement with new equipment.
Installation quality: Proper installation affects performance and longevity. Choose experienced, reputable contractors.
Thermostat: Smart thermostats optimize comfort and efficiency. Ensure compatibility with your new system.
Get Multiple Quotes
Get at least three quotes from reputable contractors. Compare not just price but: - Equipment brands and models - Warranty terms - Installation details - References and reviews
The lowest price is not always the best value. Quality installation and equipment matter for long-term satisfaction.