Installing an HVAC System for New Construction

If you’re planning on building a new home in West Volusia County, one of the things you’ll need to factor into your planning process is installing a new HVAC system. When it comes to equipping your newly built home with the right heating and cooling system, careful planning and professional assistance can go a long way in ensuring your home is as comfortable as possible.

The HVAC experts at Jacob Heating & Air Conditioning discuss some of the key considerations to keep in mind when having a heating or AC system installed in a newly constructed home so you can plan ahead. 

Understanding HVAC for New Construction

While your newly built house may be the property of your dreams, it won’t feel like home without a way to keep comfortable. That’s why it’s important to keep your HVAC installation needs in mind as you plan your construction project.

In West Volusia County, the climate is hot, humid, and sunny 229 days out of the year, with temperatures averaging 90 degrees F in the summer. However, winters can still get chilly, with average January lows at 47 degrees. Keeping the local climate in mind, the following HVAC systems may be best suited to your newly constructed home:

• Forced Air Systems: Install central air conditioning and a furnace in your home using a series of ductwork to distribute the heated and cooled air throughout your space.
• Ductless Mini-Splits: Using an outdoor unit and several indoor units, a ductless mini-split offers efficient heating and cooling without the need for ductwork.
• Heat Pumps: Perfect for Florida’s warmer climate, a heat pump can heat and cool your home for year-round comfort, offering exceptional energy savings through its unparalleled efficiency.

When To Begin HVAC Installation

The best time to begin HVAC installation during your new construction project is during the “rough-in” phase. This usually occurs after the framing is complete and before the drywall is applied. Timing your HVAC installation during this stage allows for seamless integration of your equipment without disrupting other construction phases.

During the rough-in stage, key components like your ductwork, piping, and wiring for the new heating or cooling equipment are installed within the walls, ceilings, and floors. Coordinating your HVAC installation during this stage ensures that the system is strategically positions to maximize performance and efficiency. It also ensures proper ventilation, insulation, and soundproofing considerations are applied properly. Effective coordination among your contractors and construction professionals is key, so be sure to communicate honestly with your team to ensure the best results.

Choosing the Right HVAC System

When choosing the right heating or cooling equipment for your new home, consider the following factors:

• Home Size: Your HVAC system should be properly sized to accommodate the square footage of your indoor environment.
• Local Climate: Most Florida families rely on cooling systems year-round with little need for heating, so keep this in mind when choosing your HVAC unit.
• Energy Efficiency: Choose a system with a high SEER rating for AC units, HSPF for heat pumps, or AFUE for furnaces to ensure optimal efficiency.
• Ductwork Installation: Consider the need for ductwork installation and how this may impact the construction process for your newly built home.
• Installation Budget: Determine your budget for both initial installation and long-term maintenance costs.

Having a professional HVAC technician to guide you during the selection process will ensure you pick a system that’s accurately sized, energy efficient, compatible with your construction plans, and in compliance with local building codes.

The Importance of Professional Installation

Working with a professional HVAC technician is critical to ensure proper installation during the construction process. Heating and cooling installations are complex projects that require a deep understanding of various components, their integration, and the intricacies of ductwork and refrigerant lines. Experienced installation professionals offer the expertise needed to ensure that your HVAC system operates as expected for the long term.

A skilled installation professional is also well-versed in handling potential disruptions and challenges associated with the construction process, including:

• Ductwork and piping integration
• Zoning and thermostat placement
• Duct sealing and insulation
• Compliance with building codes

Tips for a Successful HVAC Installation in New Construction

As you look toward your HVAC installation needs for your newly constructed home, there are some ways you can ensure a seamless process from start to finish:

• Plan Ahead: Work with your construction team to plan your HVAC installation around your home’s design and ensure installations are carried out at the proper phase.
• Communicate Effectively: Keep an open line of honest, transparent communication across all members of your team to ensure everyone is on the same page.
• Code Compliance: Work with a skilled professional at every stage to ensure that your HVAC installation adheres to local building codes and regulations.

Maintaining Your New HVAC System

After your new HVAC system is installed, it’s important to protect your investment for the long term by taking good care of it. Be sure to clean and replace air filters at the proper intervals (typically once every 90 days) to prevent your airflow from becoming restricted and experiencing reduced performance and efficiency. Keep the area around your outdoor units free and clear of dirt and debris.

Finally, ensure that you schedule a routine tune-up for your HVAC equipment at least once a year with your trusted comfort specialist. A professional maintenance visit will help identify repair needs early, enhance energy efficiency, and extend your system lifespan.

Get Help With Your HVAC Installation for Your Newly Built Home

Planning to build a new home in West Volusia County and need a team you can trust to install your HVAC equipment during the construction process? Jacob Heating & Air Conditioning is the team you need to get the job done right. With over 100 years of local service experience, we have the skills and tools necessary to ensure a seamless integration of your new HVAC system with your newly constructed home.

Book your HVAC installation service for your newly constructed property by calling our team at (386) 337-3502 today!