If you’re ready to upgrade your furnace, air conditioner, or are looking to upgrade both your heating and cooling systems, you have a ton of options. Newer systems are energy-efficient, reliable, and more customizable than ever. In our climate, where frosty lake-effect winters and sizzling summers can easily account for over 50% of our energy bills, the right HVAC systems are essential. Rely on Heart of Ohio to help you choose the best heating and air solutions for your family’s needs.

How To Choose the Best HVAC System for Your Cleveland Home

For Winter Efficiency:

• High-efficiency gas furnace: Ideal for consistent heating even during sub-zero nights.
• Dual-fuel heat pump systems: Use electricity during milder temps and switch to a gas furnace in deep cold, maximizing savings.
• Zoning options: Keeps unused rooms cooler to reduce load.

For Summer Efficiency:

• Air conditioner or heat pump with SEER rating 16+: Handles Cleveland’s humidity and heat efficiently.
• Variable-speed blowers/compressors: Better humidity control and lower electricity use.
• Smart thermostats: Help automate temperature settings and avoid unnecessary usage.

Pros and Cons of Furnace + Air Conditioning

Did you know that over 70% of Ohio residents have a gas furnace in their home? Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of using a furnace and air conditioning system, one of the most common HVAC setups, especially in areas with cold winters and hot summers, like Cleveland:

Pros:

• Strong performance in cold climates
• Efficient cooling for hot summers
• Upfront cost is often lower than alternatives
• Easy to maintain and repair
• Compatible with smart thermostats and zoning

Cons:

• Dual-fuel source means two systems to maintain
• Ductwork can be inefficient
• May not be as efficient in mild weather
• Less environmentally friendly
• Inconsistent comfort without zoning

Pros and Cons of Heat Pumps

Heat pumps are of growing interest in northern states like Ohio. They work by transferring heat from one space to another rather than generating heat from burning fossil fuel. They work similarly to traditional AC units, using electricity and refrigerant, but can essentially reverse the process to heat your home.

Pros:

• Heating & cooling in one system
• Highly energy-efficient
• Lower operating costs
• Environmentally friendly
• Minimal maintenance
• Works well with smart thermostats and zoned systems

Cons:

• May struggle in frigid temperatures
• Electricity dependent
• Higher initial cost
• Slower heating than furnaces

Pros and Cons of Ductless Mini-Splits

Ductless mini-splits are perfect for older homes, additions, or renovations where adding ducts is difficult or expensive. Take a look at the pros and cons of installing ductless mini-splits:

Pros:

• Provides both heat and air conditioning
• No ductwork needed
• Zoned comfort
• Energy efficiency
• Easy installation

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost per room
• Aesthetic impact
• May need backup heat in extreme cold

Call Heart of Ohio for HVAC Installation Near Cleveland

Since 1922, Heart of Ohio has provided heating, cooling, plumbing, and electrical services to Ohio residents. Our family-owned and -operated business offers flat-rate pricing and free home estimates on new HVAC systems.

Let us help you choose the perfect HVAC system for your Cleveland home. Contact us today!