Indiana summers are hot and the winters are cold, so the HVAC system in your modular home is important. When you build your new home, you want to make sure you install the proper unit. With all the choices out there it can be a bit confusing. So, we want to tell you about 3 HVAC Systems for Your Modular Home.
Understand the Differences
So, what are your choices? There are three options available to most homeowners.
- Furnace and Air Conditioner HVAC Systems
- Heat Pumps
- Ductless Mini-Split Systems
Let’s start with the most common, the traditional ducted HVAC System
Furnace & Air Conditioner HVAC System
Forced air systems are ducted HVAC systems and can either be gas or electric. The ductwork used for the heating aspect of your forced air system can also distribute central air conditioning throughout your home. Most HVAC Systems have Furnaces and Air Conditioners integrated into the same unit. The air is heated or cooled and pushed through the ducts by a blower.
The important thing when purchasing one of these units is to get the right size. An HVAC System that is too large, uses more power. This results in high utility bills. If the unit is too small, it will also run up your utility bills. It will run all the time and also wear out more quickly than it should.
Your modular home builder can recommend the correct size of HVAC system based on your modular home floorplan.
Heat Pump
Heat pumps are possible alternatives to the traditional HVAC System. Air is circulated and heated or cooled by heat transfer. This is then pumped through the home. Energy bills are generally lower, but many people in Indiana and Michigan find that heat pumps don’t warm their home enough. This is because the air never gets warmer than the ambient temperature.
Heat pumps are considered best for moderate climates, but even in Indiana, they can do the job, especially if you couple them with a ductless mini-split system.
Ductless Mini-Split System
These type of systems are less well-known than a furnace or heat pump. However, if you have built a modular home addition, you definitely want to consider this as an option. These units don’t require ductwork. This could save you a lot of money reworking your existing ductwork to include a room addition. All that is required is a 3-inch hole in the wall. A small unit outside the home powers another that mounts to the wall of the room you wish to heat. Ductless systems only require electrical access.
Not only are these units good for room additions, they also work well to boost the output of a heat pump during the coldest weather.
Whichever type of HVAC System you choose, keep in mind that it will add to the cost of your modular home. Shop around and consult with your modular home builder to make sure you understand all your options.
At Next Modular, we know that choosing a home is likely one of the most important financial decisions you will make. As an experienced modular home builder, we are committed to being your guiding light through this process.
