HVAC System Installation & Buying Guide

Aside from your home's plumbing and electrical, the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system plays the biggest role in your family's comfort. It's also one of the most costly, which is why it makes sense to thoroughly research available options before upgrading or installing an HVAC system in your home. There are several factors to consider that can not only improve your home's comfort, but may also help you save on your energy bills. Whether you're replacing an aging unit or installing an HVAC system for the first time, this HVAC buying guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

Types of HVAC Systems to Consider for Your Home

There are several types of home HVAC systems, and which one you install will depend on a few factors, including the design of your house, your budget, fuel options, and personal preference. A few of the more popular choices for HVAC systems today include split systems, mini-splits, furnaces, and boilers.

While there are eco-friendly furnace options available, including geothermal and solar panel, our focus is on three of the most popular types of HVAC systems: mini-splits, furnaces, and boilers.

Mini-Split HVAC Systems: Installation and Features

A mini-split HVAC system (also known as a ductless system) uses heat pump technology, which helps maintain the temperature of your home. Heat pumps move warm air from one location to another through a process of evaporation and condensation, as a refrigerant substance cycles through the system via a compressor pump. Mini-split systems consist of an outdoor compressor unit, and indoor air handling units.

Some pros of mini-split HVAC systems include:

· Easy to retrofit into older buildings or homes without ductwork.

· Ability to create zoned heating and cooling areas, so that you are only heating and cooling the rooms you're using, which saves on energy costs.

· Incredibly energy efficient, which makes them an eco-friendly choice.

· Provide excellent temperature distribution. Whereas a central system may not cool all rooms throughout your home evenly, a mini-split system works much better as each room has its own indoor air handling unit.

Some cons of mini-split HVAC systems include:

· Their price. A mini-split HVAC system is not a cheap choice with regards to upfront installation, but does save on monthly operating costs.

· A mini-split system also requires regular maintenance by a qualified professional, which may be hard to find since they aren't a super popular choice. The filter also needs washed monthly, or dust buildup will affect airflow.

· The indoor air handling units do stick out where mounted, which may not be ideal for someone looking for a clean aesthetic look.

· Some colder climates require an additional heating source and heat pump technology offers an extra expense.

Furnace HVAC Systems: The Most Common HVAC System Install

Furnace systems (known as forced air system or ducted system) feature a heating and/or cooling unit. Typically, this units requires installation in a basement or utility room. Plus, an HVAC system includes a series of metal ducts and registers that distribute air throughout the home. This is the most common type of HVAC system.

Some pros of forced-air HVAC systems include:

· Lower upfront costs. A gas-powered furnace and ductwork will typically costs less upfront than a ductless or boiler system, but may have higher monthly operating costs.

· Ductwork used for distributing hot and cold air, which means adding an air conditioning unit later (as needed).

· They heat and cool quickly, which is essential to maintaining a comfortable environment.

· Widely available, which means plenty of qualified professionals in the area capable of HVAC installation and service.

· Lower repair costs because of widely available parts.

Some cons of furnace HVAC systems include:

· Heat loss. Ductwork in a traditional HVAC system accounts for energy loss of up to 30%, which means you're paying for heat you're not using. However, proper duct insulation eliminates some heat loss. Plus, careful planning ensures fewer runs through cold spaces, such as attics and garages, as possible.

· They aren't easy to reconfigure, as ductwork needs must be considered. This could mean tearing down walls or cutting through floors in order to run new ducts.

· You may experience hot and cold spots with a furnace HVAC system, but this can usually be avoided with a good design.

· Forced air systems can increase your cleaning needs as they are blowing air, and thus dust and allergens, throughout the home.

· If your system burns fuel, you will need to be aware of carbon monoxide issues.

Boiler HVAC Systems: Installation Considerations

A boiler HVAC system (known as a hydronic or radiant heat system) consists of a water heating unit, distribution pipes, and radiators. Frequently, these systems remain in older homes, but offer a popular choice for new builds.

Some pros of boiler HVAC systems include:

· The piping required for a boiler HVAC system is typically smaller in size than forced air ductwork, which makes it an ideal choice for homes where installing ductwork would not be practical.

· Boiler heating systems are quite energy-efficient, making them cheaper to operate on a monthly basis.

· They heat the room more evenly than a forced-air system.

· They are not as drying to the air as a forced-air system, which is more comfortable, especially during winter months.

· With no registers to blow air from, a boiler system is much quieter than both a mini-split and a forced-air system.

Some cons of boiler HVAC systems include:

· They do not provide cooling, so if you want air conditioning you will need to install an additional system.

· They are expensive to install and repair.

· If your system burns fuel, you will need to be aware of carbon monoxide issues.

HVAC System Features: What to Look for When Buying an HVAC System

Energy or Fuel Source

This might be determined by what's available in your area, or simply a matter of personal preference. There are three main types of fuel used for HVAC systems: electric, gas, and oil. Mini-split systems are only available in electric models, whereas boilers and furnaces are available in all three fuel sources.

Electric

Electric systems are a great choice for areas that do not experience intense winter weather, and generally have lower initial upfront costs. They can be expensive to operate, depending on electricity prices, but are considered fairly energy efficient in areas that don't experience extreme cold temperatures. Electric HVAC systems are generally compact and easy to install, and easy to maintain. Most units should last anywhere from 15-20 years.

Gas

Gas systems are the most popular type, and are excellent for climates with extreme winter weather. While the upfront costs are higher with a gas HVAC system versus an electric, monthly operating costs tend to be lower. They are a very energy-efficient choice and can heat and cool your home quickly. Gas furnaces can sometimes be converted for use with propane with a conversion kit that costs about $20-$100. It's essential to have a carbon monoxide detector installed in your home if you have a gas-fueled HVAC system.

Oil

Rising oil prices mean that oil-fueled systems are not as popular as they once were, but they are still on the market and make a good choice for areas with harsh winter weather. A fuel storage tank is a must for oil-fueled systems, and regular maintenance and inspections are key. While monthly operating costs are eliminated, you will have larger quarterly or semi-annual bills when it comes time to fill the tank. You need to make sure you have enough fuel on standby so you aren't caught without heat. It's essential to have a carbon monoxide detector installed in your home if you have an oil-fueled HVAC system.

BTU Capacity

Ensuring that the HVAC system you want to purchase has the capacity necessary to heat and cool your home means that your unit will be more energy-efficient and keep your family comfortable. Aim for approximately 30-60 BTUs for each square foot of living space. Number of windows and doors, local climate, and age of your home will all factor into HVAC system load calculations. Just because a furnace has a particular BTU rating doesn't necessarily mean it is suitable for your home. Homeowners must also consider its AFUE rating.

Fortunately, Snappy's technicians perform Manual J load calculations for every HVAC installation to ensure your new system is properly sized for your specific home.

AFUE Rating

A furnace or boiler's annual fuel utilization efficiency, or AFUE rating, measures how energy efficient it is at converting its fuel source into heat over the course of a typical year. This lets homeowners easily compare different models and fuel sources.

For a furnace with an AFUE of 80%, 80% of the energy in its fuel is converted to heat, with 20% being lost through the duct system or piping. So, if a furnace has a 100,000 BTU capacity, with an AFUE rating of 80%, its maximum output is 80,000 BTUs. Purchasing an Energy Star-rated unit will ensure you're getting a high-efficiency system and is worth the investment for those living in climates that experience extreme or fluctuating weather.

In the Atlanta climate, systems with an AFUE rating of 80% or higher are standard, but ask your Snappy technician about high-efficiency 96%+ AFUE options that qualify for energy tax credits.

SEER2 Rating

For cooling efficiency, look for the SEER2 rating, which stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio 2. SEER2 replaced the older SEER standard in January 2023 and measures how efficiently an air conditioning or heat pump system cools your home over a typical season. The higher the SEER2 number, the more efficient the system. In Georgia, where cooling season runs roughly six months of the year, efficiency matters. The federal minimum SEER2 for new central AC systems in the Southeast is 15.2, but systems rated 17 or higher will deliver meaningful savings on monthly energy bills over the life of the unit.

Load Calculation

The best way to find an HVAC system suitable for your needs is to perform what's called a load calculation. This takes into consideration factors such as house size, location, foundation type, window type and location, and many others that influence home heating and cooling needs. A qualified HVAC professional is the best person to perform a load calculation for your home.

Warranty

A major perk of installing a new HVAC system is the warranty, since it means most repairs or defects will be covered for a period of time. Warranties typically range from 5-10 years, depending on the manufacturer, and are typically better on premium brands. Extended warranties are often available for additional cost.

Finally, you'll need to decide on an appropriate installation spot, ensuring there is adequate space for the unit's requirements.

There are a few other features that aren't essential, but certainly contribute to overall ease of use and comfort. They include:

· Air filtration: An integrated filtration system will help cut down on the dust and allergens within your home.

· Ignition system: This helps increase efficiency by eliminating a continuous-burning pilot light.

· Variable heat output: Available on units with variable-speed blowers, this feature increases both comfort and efficiency.

· Variable-speed blower: Reduces swings in temperature by delivering air in a more controlled, slower, and quieter manner.

· Dual heat exchanger: Draws heat from burned gas to ensure maximum efficiency.

· Zoned heating: Heat only the areas of your home you need, so you're not using energy where you don't need it.

Average HVAC System Installation Costs: How Much Should You Budget?

The cost of HVAC system installation on a new build may give homeowners a bit of sticker shock. A forced air system on a typical Atlanta-area home generally ranges from $8,000-$15,000 installed, depending on system size, efficiency rating, and ductwork requirements. A single-zone mini-split typically starts around $3,500-$6,000 installed, with multi-zone systems running higher. Boiler-based systems start around $8,000 and can exceed $15,000 for larger homes.

Costs vary based on factors such as location, local climate, type of unit, brand of unit, experience of installer, size of your home, extent of ductwork and plumbing required, and fuel source. If electrical work needs to be carried out, that will also factor into the overall costs.

You should also budget for permit fees, depending on your municipal regulations. You may also be required to have an inspection on any HVAC work, depending on local bylaws.

When purchasing an HVAC system for your home, less is not always best. It's tempting to go with the lowest priced system, but given the crucial role your HVAC system will play in your family's day-to-day life, it's worth whatever investment you can make. Same with choosing an installer -- you may be tempted to save a few bucks by hiring the cheapest-quoted company, but you need an HVAC installation contractor with the right level of experience, expertise, and the ability to provide quality service for your system over the years.

How HVAC Installation Works: A Step-by-Step Overview

Installing an HVAC system is a complicated and labor-intensive endeavor. Although you may save on the HVAC system installation fee upfront, experience is required for proper installation. Additionally, local jurisdictions may require different permitting. For instance, in Marietta and across Cobb County, HVAC installations require permits through the local building authority. A licensed HVAC contractor, such as Snappy, will pull the necessary permits and schedule the required inspection as part of the installation process.

Also, HVAC systems contain several complicated components including electrical, ducting, plumbing, and gas. Proper installation requires expertise and specialized tools of a qualified HVAC professional. It may cost more in the long run if you damage something or install it incorrectly.

Still, it's good to have a basic understanding of HVAC system installation. Here's a generalized step-by-step breakdown of the process. Note that not all steps will apply to all systems.

Step 1: Choose Your HVAC System and Plan the Installation Location

Determine the best HVAC system for your needs. Next, identify where any vents, radiators, blowers, piping, ductwork and the main unit itself will be situated. Manufacturer instructions, the load calculation, and your home's layout will influence these decisions. Ensure areas are cleaned of any dust or debris before you begin. Run piping or ductwork accordingly.

Step 2: Position and Secure the Main HVAC Unit

Follow the manufacturer's instructions to ensure adequate ventilation, drainage, and electrical needs are met. Ensure it is balanced, level, and secured.

Step 3: Connect the HVAC System to Plumbing or Ductwork

Once the main unit is adequately positioned, you can begin connecting it to the blowers, plumbing, or ducting system. Ensure that any joints are adequately sealed to prevent leaks.

Step 4: Connect Vent Pipes

Next, connect your furnace or boiler's intake and exhaust pipes. Ensure they are on a slight angle sloping towards the unit, so that any condensation drains properly.

Step 5: Connect Fuel Supply

Ensure adequate shutoff and ventilation, and when complete be sure to check for leaks.

Step 6: Connect Electrical Supply

Before starting your new system for the first time, check the instruction manual to verify your wiring.

Step 7: Connect Condensate Drain

This usually goes to a drain hole in your basement's floor.

Step 8: Check Your Work

Turn the unit on and run it through a heating and cooling cycle to ensure temperature outputs are suitable. Double-check any gas leaks or electrical, and ensure any drains are draining properly.

Again, HVAC installation remains a complicated undertaking and requires qualified professionals. The steps listed above merely provide a snapshot of what's involved in the process of HVAC installation.

HVAC System Repair and Maintenance After Installation

After the HVAC installation is complete, simple upkeep tasks like cleaning or replacing an air filter can safely be performed by any weekend DIY-er. However, major HVAC repairs are best left to a qualified professional. Plus, scheduling yearly maintenance on your HVAC system ensures everything is working properly. Additionally, standard and routine maintenance helps reduce monthly heating costs and prolongs the life of your system.

Frequent HVAC Installation Questions

How long does HVAC system installation take?

Most residential HVAC system installations are completed in one to two days. A straightforward replacement of an existing forced-air system (where ductwork is already in place) can often be done in a single day. More complex installations, such as adding new ductwork, installing a multi-zone mini-split system, or replacing a boiler, may take two to three days. Your installer will provide a timeline estimate after assessing your home.

Do I need a permit for HVAC installation in Georgia?

Yes. In Georgia and throughout the greater Atlanta area, HVAC installation work requires a permit from the local building authority, and the completed installation must pass a code inspection. A licensed HVAC contractor handles the permit application as part of the project. Be cautious of any company that suggests skipping permits to save time or cost as unpermitted HVAC work can create problems when you sell your home and may void your equipment warranty.

What size HVAC system do I need for my home?

Sizing is determined by a load calculation. A formal assessment that accounts for your home's square footage, ceiling height, insulation levels, window placement, local climate, and other factors determines the proper system size. As a rough starting point, most homes require 20-25 BTUs per square foot of living space, but that number shifts considerably based on those variables. An undersized system will run constantly and struggle to reach your set temperature. An oversized system will short-cycle, reducing efficiency and comfort. A qualified HVAC professional will perform a Manual J load calculation to determine the right size for your specific home before recommending a system.

How often does an HVAC system need to be replaced?

Most forced-air furnaces and air conditioning units are designed to last 15-20 years with proper maintenance. Mini-split systems can last 20 years or more. Boilers tend to have the longest lifespan, often 20-30 years. If your system is approaching or past these ranges or if you're facing repair costs that exceed 50% of the system's replacement value, then it's generally more economical to replace than continue repairing. An HVAC technician can assess your current system and give you an honest recommendation.

What is the most energy-efficient HVAC system for an Atlanta-area home?

For most Marietta and Atlanta-area homes, a high-efficiency heat pump system offers the best combination of year-round efficiency and performance. Heat pumps provide both heating and cooling in a single system, and modern cold-climate heat pumps perform well even when temperatures dip below freezing. For homes that already have ductwork, a high-SEER2 central air system paired with a high-AFUE gas furnace is the most common efficient configuration. For homes without ducts, a multi-zone mini-split system can be an excellent option. The right choice depends on your home's layout, existing infrastructure, and how you use energy, which is why a load calculation and an honest conversation with a licensed HVAC contractor is always the best starting point.

Ready to Move Forward with HVAC System Installation in Marietta?

This HVAC buying guide is designed to help you make a confident, informed decision. But, the right system for your home ultimately depends on factors specific to your house, your family's comfort needs, and your budget. The team at Snappy Electric, Plumbing, Heating & Air has helped homeowners across Marietta, Woodstock, Dunwoody, and the greater Atlanta area navigate every stage of the heating and cooling installation process, from load calculations and system selection to professional installation and long-term maintenance.

Contact us to request a free estimate to get started and ask about the Snappy Savings Club for ongoing maintenance discounts and priority service.