Choosing the Best HVAC System for a Mobile Home

We all need some basic heating and air features in the structures we live in, and that extends even to people who live in less traditional dwellings. A great example: Those who utilize mobile homes, whether temporarily or permanently, and are looking for ideal HVAC solutions to stay comfortable.
At Accurate Air, we’re proud to offer a wide range of heating and AC repair, installation and related services for any structure in Tempe, Scottsdale or nearby areas. If you’re in the process of choosing an HVAC setup for a new mobile home, there are several key factors that will help you choose the ideal components and build an efficient setup. Here are the top variables to keep in mind.
Your Climate
As you likely already guessed, one of the single largest factors in your HVAC decision is the climate of the area you’re living in. For instance, those living in a consistently hot or cold part of the country will need to take a different approach than those who are looking for something that can handle temperature swings.
In a place like Tempe or Scottsdale, where temperatures get extremely high in the summer months and lows aren’t especially cold in the winter, you’ll need an HVAC system that is specifically designed to have a wide range of possible temperatures.
Your Mobile Home Size
Another major factor to consider is the size of your mobile home. When it comes to choosing any kind of heating and air unit, finding one that is sized properly for your living space is essential. A unit that is too large will be inefficient and may not provide the precise temperature you need, while a unit that’s too small won’t be able to adequately heat or cool your home.
Where the Components Go
Because mobile homes often have limited space, you’ll also need to consider where the components of your HVAC system will go. If possible, you want them to be located in an area that offers good airflow and is relatively easy to access for maintenance or repair work.
If you have limited space, it may be possible to install certain components beneath the home, but this should only be done as a last resort. This is because these kinds of components will be harder to reach and provide maintenance for, plus they may be exposed to the elements.
Ducts or No Ducts?
One key decision you’ll need to make is whether or not your system should use ducts. Ductless systems are more common in mobile homes, as they offer a number of advantages that traditional ducted systems don’t have, including easier installation and lower costs up front.
However, if you’re looking for the most efficient system possible in terms of energy usage, a ducted system may be the better option. Ducts allow you to precisely control the temperature of different areas of your home, and can help prevent hot or cold spots from forming.
Split Forced Air or Packaged System?
If your mobile home does utilize ducts, you’ll then need to choose between split forced air and packaged system units. Packaged systems are typically the cheaper option, but they tend to be less efficient than split systems, which allow you to control different areas of your home separately.
A split forced air system, on the other hand, uses both an indoor air handler and an outdoor condenser to move air throughout the house. This is a more efficient system, but usually costs more upfront for installation.
Quality of Installation
As you can see, there are many factors to consider when choosing an HVAC system for your mobile home. Ultimately, though, no matter which system you choose, the quality of the installation will have a major impact on how efficiently it runs and how long it lasts.
This is because improper installation can lead to air leaks, which in turn can cause the system to work harder and use more energy than necessary. Make sure you hire a qualified technician who is experienced in installing HVAC systems for mobile homes.
Choosing the right HVAC setup for your mobile home may seem like a daunting task, but with these factors in mind, you can more easily find a system that fits your needs and budget. Once installed, you’ll be able to enjoy the comfort of your home for years to come.
For more on any of our HVAC services around Tempe, Scottsdale or nearby areas, speak to our team at Accurate Air today.