What Is the Most Energy-Efficient HVAC System?

If you’ve been trying to become more eco-friendly over the past few years, you are not alone. With climate change and inflation, there are both environmental and economic reasons to live more sustainably. Finding a more sustainable HVAC option, for example, can save you big money on your utility bills. 

So what’s the most energy-efficient HVAC system? We’ve outlined a few great options for you to consider below.

Geothermal Heat Pump

There are many different types of heat pumps. They use electricity to transfer cold air to warm places in your home and warm air to cold places in your home, depending on the season. 

A geothermal heat pump is the most environmentally friendly heat pump option because it’s powered by natural heat coming from the ground or from natural water sources.

Geothermal heat pumps provide a lot of consistency because the underground or water sources usually maintain the same temperature all year long. They can also last a really long time, with a lifetime of between 20 and 25 years.

However, it’s important to know that these pumps can be expensive to install since you’ll need to dig down between 100 and 400 feet to install the pump. Because of this, installation can cost anywhere from $2,100 to $22,000.

Air Source Heat Pump

Another heat pump that is in the running for most energy-efficient HVAC systems is an air source heat pump. It transfers air from inside your house to outside to manage heating and cooling. This type of heat pump works especially well in the summer because they are very good at dehumidifying the air that is pumped in.

On the downside, air source heat pumps don’t work as well as the temperature gets colder. They become less energy efficient, and if you live in a place with harsh winters, you’ll need a second heat source to make sure your house stays warm throughout the winter.

One advantage an air source heat pump does offer is affordability. Installation usually costs between $6,000 and $12,000, and their life span is 10 to 15 years.

Ductless / Mini-Split

Not everyone’s home comes equipped with air ducts. You may think there isn’t an energy-efficient HVAC system for these cases, but there is a solution! A ductless or mini-split system is an excellent option.

Similar to a window unit, but much more effective, a mini-split AC is a two-piece unit. One part sits inside the room and the other outside. Much smaller than a central air unit, it allows you to have temperature control individualized for each room it’s in. So, rather than cooling down the entire house, you can add AC to the rooms you want chilled while not spending money on less-used spaces.

Since mini-splits are ductless, this also means you don’t use extra energy moving air all around the house through the duct system. They also reduce humidity, provide better air quality in your home, and don’t produce the same safety concerns that window units can.

Mini-splits generally last between 10-15 years, and installation, on average, costs about $6,000. Of course, the more units you install, the more it will cost, but generally speaking, this is an affordable and sustainable option. 

High-Efficiency Furnaces

If your furnace is over 15 years old, it’s not heating your home efficiently. This means a higher energy bill and a bigger carbon footprint. An easy way to fix this is with a high-efficiency furnace. Upgrading your furnace will cut waste down to 5% and can also earn you major savings with a tax credit.

These furnaces can last 15-20 years when you stay on top of annual maintenance. Having regular checkups will help to ensure your high-efficiency furnace will last the long haul. 

Installation costs fall in the middle of the pack on this list, generally running between $4,000 and $10,000.

Sustainability Today

Now that you know all the most energy-efficient HVAC systems, you may still have some questions about what’s the best fit for your home. Our experts are here to help you select, install, and maintain whatever option you choose. Give us a call today to get started!