HVAC and Homeownership! — Charleston Real Estate

Are you the type who is curious about how things work? Or are you just happy when you press the arrows up and down on your thermostat and within 5 minutes begin to feel a sense of comfort in your home? No matter where, on the scale of interest you are of the inner workings of how a home is heated and cooled, here are some basic details about HVAC systems to help you have a knowledgeable conversation with your heating and air specialist the next time the thermostat up and down arrows aren’t responding the way they should.

Oftentimes, when I say “HVAC” with a client who is not from the Charleston area, I get a puzzled look which alerts me that I should slow down and break down the acronym’s meaning. No matter what your region calls it, Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning has become standard in most areas of the U.S. Thankfully, many homes in Charleston, SC have HVAC systems. Some may say that the HVAC system is one of the most important parts of your home; right on par with a solid foundation and quality roof. While I am far from a heating and air expert, this should get you started down the right path.. Having a basic understanding while buying or selling a home is a good idea, so let’s talk basics and then you can dig in deeper if it piques your interest! Scroll to the bottom for a short, 4 minute video to learn more from an actual expert!

Basic Types of HVAC Systems:

Heating and cooling split systems (separate units for heating & air that work together)
Packaged heating and air conditioning system (one unit switches between jobs)
Hybrid split system (switches between gas & electric)
Duct free (Mini-split)
Geothermal HVAC (heat & air exchanged through underground pipes)