Reviewing & Comparing HVAC Systems

how to choose the right hvac system for your home

HVAC systems control how your home heats, cools, and circulates air. The right system depends on where you live, how your home is built, and how you use energy day to day.

Assess

what to consider when selecting an hvac system

Every home is different. Before comparing systems, we look at:

Climate: Hot summers, mild winters, or wide temperature swings

Home Layout: Size, number of stories, ductwork, and insulation

Lifestyle: Occupancy patterns, room usage, and comfort preference

Energy Goals: Efficiency, electric vs. gas, and long-term savings

get to know your options

Review our HVAC system options to find the perfect fit for you and your home

Central Splits

What they do:

A central split system uses two main components—an outdoor unit and an indoor unit—to heat or cool your entire home through a network of ducts. Conditioned air is distributed evenly to each room, providing consistent comfort throughout the house.

Best for homes that:

Already have ductwork in place

Are medium to large in size

Want consistent, whole-home temperature control

Prefer a traditional, familiar HVAC setup

Mini Splits

what they do:

A mini split system uses an outdoor unit connected to one or more indoor air handlers to heat or cool specific areas of your home—without ductwork. Each indoor unit controls the temperature of its zone independently, allowing for precise comfort and improved energy efficiency.

Best for homes that:

Do not have existing ductwork

Want room by room or zoned temperature control

Are smaller homes, additions, or spaces with uneven heating/cooling

Prefer a modern, energy-efficient HVAC solution

Heat Pumps

What They Do:

A heat pump system transfers heat rather than generating it, using electricity to both heat and cool your home efficiently. In warmer months, it moves heat out of your home to cool it & in cooler months, it pulls heat from the outside air and brings it indoors. This all-in-one system provides year-round comfort while using less energy than traditional heating and cooling systems.

Best for homes that:

Want an energy-efficient, all-in-one heating and cooling system

Live in mild to moderate climates

Are looking to reduce energy costs and carbon footprint

Prefer a modern alternative to traditional furnaces and AC units

Packaged Units

what they do:

A packaged unit combines heating and cooling components into a single, self-contained system that is typically installed outdoors or on the roof. Instead of splitting equipment between indoor and outdoor units, everything is housed in one compact unit and distributes conditioned air through ductwork.

Best for homes that:

Have limited indoor space for HVAC equipment

Already use ductwork for air distribution

Want a simple, all-in-one heating and cooling solution

Prefer easy access for maintenance and service

Hybrid Systems

what they do:

A hybrid system pairs an electric heat pump with a traditional furnace to automatically switch between heating sources based on outdoor temperatures. During milder weather, the heat pump provides efficient heating and cooling. When temperatures drop, the system seamlessly transitions to the furnace for stronger heat output.

Best for homes that:

Experience a wide range of seasonal temperatures

Want to balance energy efficiency with reliable heating power

Already have ductwork in place

Are looking to reduce energy costs without sacrificing comfort

Whole House Fans

what they do:

A whole house fan pulls cool outdoor air into your home and pushes warm indoor air out through the attic and vents. By creating strong ventilation, it helps quickly lower indoor temperatures and improve airflow throughout the house. This system is typically used during cooler evenings and nights to naturally refresh your home and reduce reliance on air conditioning.

Best for homes that:

Are located in climates with cool evenings and nights

Want to reduce AC usage and energy costs

Have an attic and proper ventilation

Prefer a simple, natural cooling solution

one size doesn't always fit all

The best HVAC system isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some homes benefit from full ducted systems, while others work better with zoned or hybrid solutions. Climate, energy goals, and daily habits all play a role and we help you weigh those factors clearly and confidently.

"Empower Solar installation team worked very hard today. The team members were polite and professional. Team was able to pull in additional staff to complete a two day installation down to one day. Very appreciative of the staff!"
Carla M.
Riverside, California
"The project was quick and everyone at Empower has continued to be available for any questions I had about our new system after install. Great company culture, amazing people, and fantastic service!"
Anthony D.
Phoenix, Arizona
"The entire crew were some of the most professional and courteous people I have had work on the house! Fantastic craftsmanship 100% rating!"
Richard E.
Houston, Texas
"I was very happy with your installers, they were all geared up and ready to go, all of them knew exactly what they were doing, no hesitation, and everything looked professional when they were done. No debris anywhere, and everything was explained to me in layman's English."
Henry E.
Stockton, California
"Great service!   Worked well with the staff; sales and customer service.   The contractors that came to my house were always on time, respectful and amazing workers."
Lawrence R.
Phoenix, Arizona
"Empower Home provided solar installation in my house in Richmond, TX, and completed the job today. The team that performed the entire job from day one until finished was very friendly, knowledgeable, efficient, and respectful. They answered all my questions to my satisfaction."
Mohammed Amin L.
Richmond, Texas
"The guys installing our new panels were great! They arrived on time and were very professional!"
Kathy K.
Stockton, California
HVAC Membership Plans

Simple protection. Real savings. Year-round comfort.

Get more from your HVAC system with affordable subscription plans built to prevent breakdowns and extend your equipment’s life. Enjoy scheduled tune-ups, priority service, and exclusive member discounts.

Standard

Includes:

  • 50 Point Inspection

  • 2 Annual Tune-Ups

  • 2 Year Extended Parts Warranty

  • Priority Service Scheduling

Advanced

Includes All Standard Benefits Plus:

  • 5 Year Extended Parts Warranty

  • 1 Free Standard Dispatch

  • 15% Part Discount

  • 15% Service Discount

  • New Filters (per Tune-up visit)*

Become an Empowered Homeowner

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