5 Types of HVAC Systems PDF: A Full Comparison

Let’s be honest: the world of HVAC is filled with confusing jargon. Between SEER ratings, tonnage, and the different kinds of units, it’s easy to feel like you need an engineering degree just to have a conversation about a new air conditioner. But you don’t. The truth is, the basic concepts are pretty straightforward once someone explains them clearly. That’s exactly what we’re going to do here. We’ll demystify the technology and give you a plain-English breakdown of your options, so you can feel in control of the process. We’ve even created a simple types of hvac systems pdf to help you keep the facts straight as you explore what’s best for your home.

Key Takeaways

Match the system to your home: The right choice depends on your home’s specific layout and needs, so consider whether a traditional split system for whole-house cooling or a duct-free mini-split for a single problem area is the better solution.
Prioritize a quality installation: The performance of your new AC depends heavily on the installation quality. A correctly sized unit installed by a licensed professional will run more efficiently and prevent future problems.
Think long-term about the cost: The cheapest unit isn’t always the most affordable option in the long run. Consider the total cost of ownership, which includes the initial price, future energy savings, and routine maintenance, to make a wise investment.

What Are the Main Types of HVAC Systems?

When you hear the term “HVAC,” it might sound like technical jargon, but it simply stands for Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. It’s the heart of your home’s comfort system, working tirelessly to keep you cool during those sweltering Florida summers and comfortable on the occasional chilly day. Understanding the different types of HVAC systems is the first step toward making a smart investment for your home. Choosing the right one affects everything from your monthly energy bills to your family’s comfort and even your home’s indoor air quality.

In Florida, our air conditioners are true workhorses, so picking a system that is both powerful and efficient is key. The world of HVAC includes several options, each with its own set of strengths. You don’t need to become an expert overnight, but knowing the basics will help you have a more informed conversation when it’s time for an upgrade or replacement. Whether you live in a historic home with no existing ductwork or a modern house with specific energy goals, there’s a system designed for your needs. Our goal at 5 Star Air is to give you honest, clear information so you feel confident in your decision. If you’re ready to explore what a new system could look like for your home, our team is here to provide a straightforward air conditioning installation consultation without any sales pressure.

The Classic: Split Systems

You’re probably most familiar with the split system, as it’s the most common type found in homes across Florida. The name “split” comes from its design, which is divided into two main parts: an outdoor unit (the condenser and compressor) and an indoor unit (the furnace or fan coil and evaporator coil). These two components work together, connected by refrigerant lines, to pull heat out of your home and disperse it outside. This classic setup is a reliable and effective way to cool your entire house, making it a popular and trusted choice for homeowners.

The All-in-One: Hybrid Heat Pump Systems

A hybrid system is a smart evolution of the traditional split system, designed for maximum energy efficiency. It pairs an electric heat pump with a gas furnace, giving you two ways to heat your home. The system is intelligent enough to automatically switch between the two fuel sources based on which is more economical at any given time. While we don’t use our heaters much in Florida, the heat pump component is also incredibly efficient at cooling your home, which can lead to significant savings on your energy bills during our long, hot summers.

The Flexible Choice: Duct-Free Mini-Splits

If you have a room that’s always too hot, like a sunroom, garage, or a new home addition, a duct-free mini-split system could be the perfect answer. These systems don’t require any ductwork, making them incredibly flexible. They consist of a small outdoor unit connected to one or more indoor units mounted on the wall or ceiling. Each indoor unit has its own thermostat, allowing you to create different temperature “zones” throughout your house. This means you can cool just the room you’re in, saving energy and customizing your comfort.

The Compact Solution: Packaged HVAC Systems

A packaged system is a great all-in-one solution for homes where space is tight. Unlike a split system, all the essential components, including the compressor, condenser, and evaporator, are housed in a single cabinet. This unit is typically installed on a rooftop or on a concrete slab next to the house. Packaged systems are a common sight in commercial buildings but are also a practical option for certain residential homes, especially those without the crawlspace or closet space for a large indoor unit. They offer a simple, space-saving approach to home comfort.

The Eco-Friendly Option: Geothermal Heat Pumps

For homeowners focused on sustainability and long-term savings, a geothermal system is the top-tier choice. This system uses the stable temperature of the earth to heat and cool your home. A network of underground pipes circulates water to transfer heat between your house and the ground. Because the earth’s temperature remains constant just a few feet below the surface, these systems are exceptionally efficient and can dramatically reduce your energy consumption. The initial investment is higher, but the long-term energy savings and environmental benefits are unmatched, which is why many homeowners explore financing to make it possible.

How Do These HVAC Systems Actually Work?

It’s one thing to know the names of different HVAC systems, but it’s another to understand what’s actually happening behind the scenes to keep your home comfortable. You don’t need an engineering degree to get the gist of it. Let’s walk through how each of these common systems operates, so you can feel confident about the technology working for you. Understanding the mechanics can help you pinpoint which system is the best match for your home, your lifestyle, and your budget.

How a Split System Cools Your Home

Split systems are the most popular choice for residential homes, and for good reason. They are called “split” because they have two main components: an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. The outdoor unit houses the compressor and condenser, while the indoor unit contains the evaporator coil and a furnace or air handler. These two parts work together to cool your home. The system uses a special fluid, called a refrigerant, to absorb heat from your indoor air. This heat is then carried outside and released. The newly cooled air is then pushed through a network of ducts to reach every room in your house, providing consistent comfort. This is the classic setup for central air conditioning installation and replacement.

How a Hybrid System Switches Gears

A hybrid system is a clever twist on the traditional split system. It also has an indoor and outdoor unit, but it gives you two ways to generate heat: a gas furnace and an electric heat pump. The system is smart enough to automatically switch between the two fuel sources based on what’s most efficient at the moment. During Florida’s milder cool spells, the electric heat pump can handle the job efficiently. When a rare cold snap hits and temperatures drop significantly, the system switches over to the more powerful gas furnace. This flexibility helps you manage your energy consumption and can lead to lower utility bills without sacrificing comfort.

How a Mini-Split Delivers Zoned Comfort

If you have a room that’s always too hot or you’ve built a new addition, a duct-free mini-split might be the perfect solution. These systems don’t rely on a central network of ducts. Instead, they have an outdoor unit connected to one or more compact indoor units mounted on the wall or ceiling of a specific room. Each indoor unit has its own thermostat, allowing you to create different temperature “zones” throughout your house. This means you can cool your living room without wasting energy on an empty guest bedroom. This targeted approach not only provides personalized comfort but also improves your home’s overall indoor air quality by filtering the air in each specific zone.

How a Packaged System Keeps It Simple

A packaged system is exactly what it sounds like: all the essential heating and cooling components are housed together in one single cabinet. This all-in-one unit is typically installed on a rooftop for commercial buildings or on a concrete slab next to a house. From its outdoor location, the packaged unit connects directly to your home’s ductwork. Conditioned air is blown into the supply ducts, and old air is pulled back through the return ducts, all from one central point. These systems are a great space-saving option, especially for homes without the basement or closet space needed for a traditional split system’s indoor unit.

How a Geothermal System Uses Earth’s Power

Geothermal systems are a fascinating and highly efficient way to heat and cool your home by tapping into the earth’s natural energy. Just a few feet below the ground, the temperature stays remarkably consistent all year long. A geothermal system uses a series of pipes, called a loop, buried in your yard to exchange heat with the earth. In the summer, the system pulls heat from your home and transfers it into the cooler ground. In the winter, it extracts heat from the ground and moves it into your home. Because it’s just moving heat instead of creating it, this process is incredibly energy-efficient and can lead to significant long-term savings.

Weighing the Pros and Cons of Each System

Choosing a new HVAC system feels like a huge decision, because it is! It affects your comfort, your budget, and your home’s value for years to come. To make it a little easier, let’s break down the real-world pros and cons of each major system type you’ll encounter here in Florida.

Split Systems: The Good and The Bad

Split systems are the most common setup you’ll find in Florida homes, and for good reason. They have one unit inside (the air handler) and one outside (the condenser), working together to cool your home efficiently. The biggest pro is their performance and efficiency. Because they’re so popular, parts are readily available and most technicians are familiar with them.

The main drawback is that they rely entirely on ductwork. If your home doesn’t have ducts, or if your existing ducts are old and leaky, you’ll face a much bigger project. A proper air conditioning installation for a split system is crucial to ensure it runs efficiently from day one.

Hybrid Systems: Best of Both Worlds?

A hybrid system is a smart combination of an electric heat pump and a gas furnace. It automatically switches between the two fuel sources, choosing whichever is more efficient at any given moment. This flexibility can lead to some serious energy savings over the life of the system, especially during those rare Florida cold snaps.

The trade-off is a higher upfront cost and increased complexity. With more moving parts, there’s more that can potentially need attention down the road. That’s why it’s so important to have a trusted team for any air conditioning repair to keep a sophisticated system like this running smoothly.

Mini-Splits: Is Ductless Right for You?

If you have a new home addition, a converted garage, or a room that’s always too hot, a duct-free mini-split could be your perfect solution. These systems have a slim outdoor unit connected to one or more indoor units mounted on the wall or ceiling. They offer fantastic zoned cooling, letting you cool just the space you’re using without wasting energy on the whole house.

On the downside, the cost per ton of cooling can be higher than a central system, and some people aren’t fond of the look of the indoor units. However, they are an excellent alternative if you’re facing major issues with your current ductwork and are looking for an alternative to a full duct replacement.

Packaged Systems: Compact Convenience vs. Compromise

A packaged system contains all its components in a single cabinet. You’ll typically find them on the roof of a commercial building or on a concrete slab next to a home with limited space. The main advantage is their small footprint and straightforward installation. Everything is in one place, which simplifies the setup process.

However, this convenience can come at the cost of efficiency. They often aren’t as efficient as split systems, and because the entire unit lives outside, it’s more exposed to Florida’s sun, salt, and storms. This exposure means regular air conditioning maintenance is absolutely essential to prevent premature wear and tear and keep it running reliably.

Geothermal Systems: The Long-Term Payoff

Geothermal systems are the marathon runners of the HVAC world. They use the stable temperature of the earth to cool your home with incredible efficiency. The pros are huge: massive energy savings, a very long system lifespan, and a tiny environmental footprint. They are quiet, reliable, and can cut your cooling costs dramatically.

The major hurdle is the initial investment. Geothermal installation is complex and carries a significant price tag. The process involves drilling deep into your yard, which can be disruptive. While the long-term savings are undeniable, the upfront cost is a factor for many homeowners, which is why exploring financing options can make this eco-friendly choice more accessible.

Which HVAC System Is Right for Your Florida Home?

Choosing a new HVAC system is a big decision, especially here in Florida where it’s a non-negotiable part of a comfortable home. With so many types and features, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But finding the perfect fit doesn’t have to be complicated. It really comes down to four key things: our unique climate, your home’s specific size and layout, the system’s energy efficiency, and your overall budget. Let’s walk through each of these so you can feel confident in your choice.

Choosing a System for the Florida Climate

Living in Florida means your HVAC system will be working hard, not just to cool your home but to control our famous humidity. An air conditioner that only cools without properly dehumidifying can leave your home feeling damp and clammy, even if the thermostat says it’s cool. That’s why selecting a system designed for our warm, moist environment is so important. High-efficiency split systems and hybrid heat pumps are excellent at managing both temperature and humidity. A quality air conditioning installation ensures your system is optimized to handle the intense Florida weather, keeping you comfortable all year long.

Matching Your HVAC to Your Home’s Size

It might seem logical to think a bigger AC unit will cool your home better, but that’s one of the most common mistakes we see. An oversized system will cool the air too quickly, then shut off. This constant starting and stopping, called short cycling, is inefficient and fails to remove enough humidity from the air. On the other hand, an undersized unit will run constantly without ever reaching a comfortable temperature. The key is proper sizing, which requires a professional calculation to match the unit perfectly to your home’s square footage, insulation, and layout. A professional assessment is the only way to guarantee your system is the right size for maximum efficiency and comfort.

Decoding Energy Efficiency for Real Savings

When you start looking at systems, you’ll see SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings. In simple terms, a higher SEER rating means greater energy efficiency. Choosing the right air conditioner and properly maintaining it can significantly improve your home’s comfort and save you money on your utility bills. While a high-SEER unit might have a higher upfront cost, the long-term energy savings often make it a smarter investment. Think of it as paying for the fuel for your car; a more efficient model will cost you less to run month after month. We can help you compare the potential energy savings of different models to see what makes the most sense for you.

Balancing Your Budget with Installation Needs

It’s important to consider the total cost of ownership, not just the price tag on the unit itself. This includes the upfront cost of the system, the quality of the installation, future energy bills, and ongoing maintenance. A cheaper unit might seem like a good deal, but if it leads to higher energy costs and more frequent repairs, it can cost you more in the long run. At 5 Star Air, we believe in honest, transparent pricing without any sales pressure. We’ll lay out all your options clearly and even offer flexible financing options to help you invest in a reliable, high-quality system that fits your budget and provides lasting comfort.

Common HVAC Myths You Shouldn’t Believe

When it comes to your home’s comfort, there’s a lot of advice floating around. Unfortunately, some of the most common “tips” are actually myths that can lead to higher energy bills, unnecessary wear on your system, and a less comfortable home. Let’s clear the air and bust a few of the most persistent HVAC myths so you can make smarter decisions for your Florida home.

Myth #1: A Bigger AC Is Always Better

It seems logical, right? A more powerful air conditioner will surely cool your home better. In reality, this is one of the most common mistakes a homeowner can make. An oversized AC unit will cool your space too quickly, but it won’t run long enough to effectively remove humidity from the air. This leaves you with a cold, clammy feeling, which is the last thing you want in the Florida humidity. This rapid on-and-off cycling also causes extra wear and tear on the system and drives up your energy costs. The key is getting a system that’s perfectly sized for your home, which is why a professional air conditioning installation starts with a proper load calculation, not a guess.

Myth #2: Setting the Thermostat Lower Cools Faster

After a long day out in the Florida sun, it’s tempting to walk inside and crank the thermostat down to 65 degrees, thinking it will cool your house in record time. Unfortunately, your air conditioner doesn’t have a “high speed” setting. It cools your home at a steady, constant rate, no matter what temperature you set. Dropping the thermostat to an extreme low won’t speed up the process; it will just force your system to run longer than necessary to reach that frigid temperature, wasting energy and money. If your home isn’t cooling down as it should, the issue might be with the unit itself, and it may be time for an air conditioning repair call.

Myth #3: You Only Need to Change Your Filter Once a Year

This is a piece of advice you can’t afford to follow. Your air filter is your system’s first line of defense against dust, pollen, and other airborne particles. A clogged filter forces your AC to work much harder to pull in air, which strains the components and can lead to expensive breakdowns. It also means those trapped contaminants can degrade your home’s air quality. In a place like Florida, with high humidity and plenty of pollen, you should be checking your filter every month and changing it at least every 90 days. A clean filter is one of the easiest ways to maintain good indoor air quality and keep your system running efficiently.

Myth #4: Any High SEER Rating Guarantees Low Bills

A high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating is definitely a good thing. It means the unit is designed to be more energy-efficient. However, it’s not a magic bullet for low electricity bills. Think of it like the MPG rating on a car; your actual mileage depends on how you drive. Factors like your home’s insulation, leaky ductwork, how often you run the system, and your thermostat settings all play a huge role in your final energy costs. A high-SEER unit is a fantastic start, but it’s just one part of a bigger picture. An honest technician will assess your entire home to find the best ways to save, not just sell you the fanciest model.

Breaking Down the Cost of a New HVAC System

Let’s be honest, a new HVAC system is a big purchase. Seeing the final price can feel a little overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that the number on the tag isn’t the whole story. The total cost of a new system is a combination of several factors, and understanding them can help you make a confident and informed decision for your home. Think of it less as a one-time expense and more as a long-term investment in your comfort, air quality, and even your monthly budget.

When you partner with an honest company, you’ll get a clear breakdown of what you’re paying for. This includes the price of the unit itself, the cost of professional installation, and the potential savings you’ll see on future energy bills. It also involves planning for routine care to keep your system running efficiently for years to come. We’ll walk through each piece of the puzzle so you can see exactly how these costs add up and what options are available to make your new system fit your budget.

Comparing Upfront Installation Costs

The initial price you pay for a new HVAC system can vary quite a bit, and it largely depends on the type of unit you choose. For example, a traditional split system often has a more affordable upfront cost than an all-in-one packaged system, which might require more complex work. The size of your home and the existing ductwork also play a role in the final air conditioning installation price. Our goal is to find the perfect fit for your home’s unique layout and your family’s needs, ensuring you’re not paying for more than you require. We provide transparent quotes with no hidden fees, so you know exactly what to expect from the start.

Estimating Your Future Energy Bills

One of the best parts of getting a new air conditioner is the immediate impact it has on your monthly expenses. Modern AC systems are incredibly efficient. They cool your home better, run quieter, and are far superior at managing Florida’s humidity. If your current system is over 10 years old, it’s likely using a lot more electricity than a new model. In fact, many homeowners find that their old units cost them hundreds of dollars more each year to operate compared to a new, energy-efficient system. That monthly saving is a real return on your investment that you’ll appreciate every time you get your power bill.

Planning for Long-Term Maintenance

Once your new system is installed, you’ll want to protect it. Consistent, professional maintenance is the best way to ensure it runs smoothly and efficiently for its entire lifespan. A common myth is that you only need to change your air filter once a year, but in reality, it needs to be checked more frequently. Regular air conditioning maintenance not only helps your system perform at its best but also supports better indoor air quality for your family. Think of it like changing the oil in your car; it’s a small, simple step that prevents bigger, more expensive problems down the road and keeps your warranty intact.

Exploring Your Financing Options

A new HVAC system is a necessary investment, but you don’t have to pay for it all at once. Many homeowners find that financing is a smart way to manage the cost without draining their savings. Spreading the payments out over time can make even the best, most efficient system accessible for your budget. When you consider the long-term savings on your energy bills, financing often makes perfect financial sense. We offer flexible financing options to help you get the comfort and reliability you need now. Our team can walk you through the simple application process and find a plan that works for you.

What Does a 5-Star Installation Look Like?

You’ve done the research and picked out the perfect HVAC system. But the journey doesn’t end there. The quality of your installation is just as important as the quality of the unit you choose. A sloppy installation can lead to poor performance, higher energy bills, and a shorter lifespan for your system, no matter how fancy it is. A great install sets you up for success. Choosing the right air conditioner for your home and properly maintaining it can significantly improve your home’s comfort, save energy, and reduce your environmental impact.

So, what does a 5-star installation actually involve? It’s about more than just connecting wires and pipes. It’s a comprehensive process that ensures your new system works perfectly from day one. It starts with a thorough assessment of your home, includes precise execution by trained professionals, and ends with a clear explanation of how everything works. From making sure your system is the right size to walking you through the warranty, a professional team handles every detail. This commitment to quality is what a true air conditioning installation should deliver, giving you peace of mind and a comfortable home for years to come. It’s the difference between an AC that just works and one that works efficiently for its entire lifespan.

Why Your Technician Must Be Licensed and Insured

Hiring a licensed and insured technician isn’t just a suggestion; it’s essential for protecting your home and your investment. A license proves the technician has met state requirements for knowledge and competency. Insurance protects you from liability in case of accidents or property damage during the job. Since HVAC systems work by circulating air throughout a space, it is important that they are running properly at all times. An unlicensed installer could make mistakes that compromise your system’s efficiency and your home’s safety. At 5 Star Air, we believe in total transparency and accountability, which is why all our technicians are fully licensed and insured for your protection.

The Critical Step: Correctly Sizing Your System

One of the most common HVAC myths is that bigger is always better, but that’s definitely not the case for your AC. An oversized unit will cool your home too quickly, shutting off before it has a chance to remove humidity. This leaves you with a cold, clammy feeling. A unit that’s too small will run constantly, driving up your energy bills without ever reaching the set temperature. To avoid these problems, make sure an HVAC professional performs a heating or cooling load calculation for your home so you know the correct size your new unit should be. This calculation considers factors like your home’s square footage, window placement, insulation, and local climate to find the perfect fit.

Your Installation Day: What to Expect

On installation day, a professional team should treat your home with respect. This means laying down drop cloths to protect your floors and keeping their work area tidy. The process involves safely disconnecting and removing your old unit, then carefully installing the new one according to the manufacturer’s specifications and local codes. Taking the time to ensure proper ventilation will result in a more comfortable home and a longer-lasting HVAC system. Once the installation is complete, the technicians should test the system thoroughly, clean up the workspace, and walk you through how to operate your new thermostat. Our customers often mention this attention to detail in their testimonials.

Understanding Your Warranty and Service Guarantee

Your new HVAC system comes with two important layers of protection: the manufacturer’s warranty and your installer’s service guarantee. The manufacturer’s warranty covers parts that fail due to a defect, but it often requires that the unit be installed by a licensed professional and receive regular upkeep. This is where a solid service guarantee and maintenance plan come in. Regularly checking your air filter and replacing it as recommended by your HVAC professional can help support indoor air quality and keep your system running smoothly. A great company will stand by their work and offer ongoing air conditioning maintenance to keep your system in top shape and your warranty valid.

Get Your Free HVAC Buyer’s Guide

Feeling overwhelmed by the thought of choosing a new HVAC system? You’re not alone. It’s a big decision, but it doesn’t have to be a stressful one. We created this free, straightforward buyer’s guide to give you the clarity and confidence you need to pick the perfect system for your Florida home. It’s all about making this process easier for you.

What’s Inside the Guide

We start with the basics because you can’t make a good decision without a solid foundation. The guide clearly explains what different HVAC systems do, breaking down the technical terms into simple language. You’ll learn what “HVAC” actually stands for (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) and understand its core job: keeping your home comfortable year-round. This foundational knowledge is the first step to making an informed choice you’ll feel good about for years to come.

Easy-to-Read Comparison Charts

Tired of confusing lists and technical jargon? We get it. That’s why our guide features simple comparison charts that lay everything out for you. You can easily see the pros and cons of the eight main types of HVAC systems side-by-side. These charts are designed to help you quickly see which options are the best fit for your home’s size, your budget, and the Florida climate. This makes the decision process much less intimidating and a lot more straightforward.

Pro Tips for Maintenance and Savings

This guide is also packed with practical tips to help you save money and keep your system running smoothly. For example, we address common misconceptions about HVAC maintenance, like the idea that you only need to change your air filter once a year (hint: you should do it more often!). Following our expert advice will not only improve your home’s air quality but also increase your system’s efficiency, leading to lower energy bills down the road.

Download Your Guide Instantly

Ready to take control of your comfort? Your free HVAC Buyer’s Guide is available for instant download. It’s a valuable resource that provides the essential criteria for choosing the right heating and cooling distribution systems for your home. No waiting, no strings attached. Just clear, honest information to help you make the best investment. Grab your copy today and get one step closer to a perfectly cooled home.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I should repair my old AC or just replace it? That’s the big question for many homeowners. A good rule of thumb is to consider the system’s age and the cost of the repair. If your air conditioner is over 10 years old and needs a major, expensive fix (like a new compressor), that money is often better invested in a new, more efficient system. Frequent breakdowns are another sign that your old unit is on its last legs. A new system will not only be more reliable but will also save you money every month on your energy bills.

What’s the most important feature for an AC in Florida besides just cooling? Hands down, it’s humidity control. An air conditioner that only drops the temperature without properly removing moisture from the air will leave your home feeling cool but unpleasantly damp or clammy. A modern, correctly sized system is designed to excel at dehumidification, which makes your home feel more comfortable at a higher temperature and helps prevent issues like mold growth.

Is a higher SEER rating the only thing that matters for saving money? A high SEER rating is a fantastic starting point, but it isn’t the whole story. Think of it like a car’s MPG rating; your actual results depend on other factors. For an AC, the quality of the installation, the correct sizing of the unit for your home, and the condition of your ductwork are just as important. A high-efficiency unit connected to leaky ducts or one that’s too big for the space won’t deliver the savings you expect.

My house has a room that’s always hot. Do I need a whole new system? Not necessarily. This is a perfect scenario for a duct-free mini-split system. These units are designed to provide targeted cooling to a specific area, like a sunroom, home addition, or a bedroom that just never seems to get cool enough. It’s a flexible and efficient solution that doesn’t require you to replace your entire central HVAC system or install new ductwork.

Why can’t I just buy an AC unit myself and have a handyman install it? While it might seem like a way to save money upfront, it can cost you much more in the long run. An HVAC system is a complex piece of equipment, and a professional installation is critical for safety, efficiency, and performance. A licensed technician ensures the unit is sized correctly, installed to code, and running properly. Plus, most manufacturer warranties are only valid if the system is installed by a certified professional, so a DIY or handyman install could void your warranty entirely.

Types of HVAC Systems PDF: A Homeowner’s Guide