1. Pick a system type
| System | Best for |
|---|---|
| Central AC + gas furnace | Cold climates with cheap natural gas and existing ducts |
| Ducted heat pump | Mild to cold climates, all-electric homes |
| Dual fuel (heat pump + furnace) | Cold climates that want efficient heat plus gas backup |
| Ductless mini-split | Homes without ducts, additions, zoning |
| Packaged unit | Homes with no indoor space for equipment, common in the South |
2. Size it properly
Insist on a Manual J load calculation and, for new or changed ductwork, a Manual D duct design. An oversized system costs more and performs worse.
3. Choose efficiency
- SEER2 (cooling): minimum 13.4 in the North, 14.3 in the South.
- HSPF2 (heat pump heating): minimum 7.5.
- AFUE (furnaces): 80% to 98.5%.
Pay for higher efficiency where you use the most energy: cooling in the South, heating in the North.
4. Brands vs. installers
Many brands share components, and installation quality has a bigger impact on comfort, efficiency and lifespan than the logo. Choose the contractor first, then the equipment they install and service well.
5. Understand warranties
- Parts warranties are often 10 years, but only if the equipment is registered within 60–90 days.
- Labor warranties come from the contractor and vary from 1 to 10 years.
- Ask what voids the warranty, such as missing annual maintenance.
6. Compare quotes
Line up quotes by model numbers, efficiency, included work, warranties and total price. See how to choose an HVAC contractor.
