There are three ways it can be configured:
Independent Heating and Air Conditioning (AC) Equipment - These are individual parts that work separately. They are usually controlled with a built-in thermostat or on/off button. These type of heating systems are perfect for individual rooms or small spaces.
Central Heating and Cooling System – An outdoor AC condenser and an indoor furnace work together through a duct system. The HVAC supply air by circulating it through a centralized air handler (a.k.a. “blower”). The furnace’s main job is to warm up the air, and the AC condenser’s job is to cool it down. Some system also has humidity control built-in. With proper humidity level, your Heating and Cooling equipment do not have to work as hard to maintain the desired temperature.
Mini-Split System – This is basically a ductless central system. Unlike the central system, an air handler is needed in each room or zone. The benefit of a mini-split is that you don’t need to plan and run complex ducts to move the air. This solution is ideal for buildings where you don’t have the space or access to lay ducts.
Electric heaters use electricity as a fuel source to heat the air while gas heaters use natural gas. There are pros and cons to using either solution.
Electric Heater
Gas Heater
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. It measures the cooling efficiency of your heat pump and air conditioning system.
Fun fact: SEER = cooling output of an A/C unit / total electric energy needed over a cooling season.
The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient it is. Note that the printed SEER rating on the product is the maximum efficiency, and not necessarily the actual efficiency. The ratings range from 13 to 22.
You will not find a SEER rating on individual heating and cooling products:
Most states offer rebate programs for new high efficient HVAC equipment. It typically requires a certain score to qualify. Please check with your local utility company for more information.
Fun fact: The minimum SEER rating for southern states is 14. In northern states, it’s 13.
Don't lean toward the cheapest heater. With an efficient system, you are guaranteed to benefit from energy saving for years to come. If you are not sure which electric heater is best for you, call us. We are here to help.
Comparing BTU and watts is like comparing apples to oranges.
BTU - British Thermal Units which is the unit measure of Energy.
Watts - The unit measure of Power
Fun fact: Power = Energy / Time.
The right comparison is BTU/hr or BTUH to watts.
To convert BTUH to watts, the formula is 1 BTUH = .293 watts. For example, a 5000 Watts Unit Heater is the same as a 17,000 BTUH version.
Manufacturers use both or either of these units to classify their products. You can use this newfound knowledge to compare similar heaters side by side.
Depending on the type of filter you have and the outdoor air quality, it can range from 30 days to as long as a year. However, with a good quality filter, it can last up to 90 days without being replaced or cleaned. Some reusable filter simply needs to be hosed down. While most people preferred the disposable version for convenience purpose.
During pollen seasons, you might want to change it more frequently.
We recommend that you inspect your air filter every 30 days and change it as needed. It’s a five-minute step that can keep your system running efficiently and make sure your family is breathing in healthy, clean air.