Understanding the differences between HVAC systems
Allow us to simplify the confusing world of air conditioning
Schedule a $29 service call 👉
If you're reading this blog post, the chances are good that you’re in the market for a new HVAC system or soon will be. More than likely you've done research on systems, options, manufacturers, efficiency ratings, etc. and are starting to get an idea of what all might be available. And unless you work in the HVAC industry, you're probably suffering from a bit of information overload.
This blog post was written for you.
In the paragraphs that follow, we've done our best to de-mystify the HVAC industry. Even if you don't use Franklin for your HVAC replacement, we hope this page is helpful and allows you to make a more informed decision for you and your family.
What is a SEER rating?
Simply put, SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) for an air conditioner is similar to miles per gallon for a car. The higher the number, the more energy efficient the system is and the less it will cost you to operate. Gas furnaces have a similar efficiency rating, called AFUE (annual fuel utilization efficiency).
SEER and price are closely related — systems with a lower SEER generally cost less up front than ones with a higher SEER.
As of April 2025, the least efficient HVAC system you can buy is a 14 SEER2*.
*SEER2 is the new efficiency standard and has replaced SEER1.
Which is the best brand?
This could be expanded on at length, but as a general rule, most of the big air conditioning brands like Trane / American Standard, Carrier, Daikin, and Lennox are solid. If you stick to one of those, you're typically assured of a quality product and readily available parts for the life of the system.
One thing to note: Many of the manufacturers have interchangeable brand names for their products. For example, we sell the American Standard brand, which is a Trane system. Daikin does a similar thing with Amana, as do many of the other companies. They are often the exact same systems coming off the exact same assembly lines, just with a different nameplate.
Heat pump vs traditional AC
Traditional air conditioners use the refrigeration cycle to take heat out of a home and place it outside. Heat pumps are able to do that, along with the opposite — take heat from the outside and put it inside your home. Because of their ability to both heat and cool a home, they are much more efficient than normal air conditioners. Plus, they run on electricity only, making them a great fit for homes without access to natural gas (like many in Bella Vista).
Want to learn more about heat pumps? Watch this great explainer video on YouTube.
Single stage vs two-stage vs variable speed
The ability of an air conditioner to run at different speeds has a huge influence on both your comfort and the price you pay, so it's worth taking the time to understand the difference between single stage, two-stage, and variable speed.
Single stage: Like a traditional light switch, a single stage system is either off or running at full speed. This causes some problems because it means the temperature in your house is constantly fluctuating and is rarely at your set temperature. Your existing system is likely single speed.
Two-stage: This type of system can run at two speeds, low speed (typically 60-70% of maximum capacity) and high speed (100%). Thanks to their ability to adapt to cooling demand on the fly, two-stage systems are more efficient as well as more effective at cooling a home. They are also quieter.
Variable speed: The crème de la crème of air conditioning technology. Variable speed units are able to perfectly match cooling demand by changing their operating speed 1% at a time. With a variable speed system, when you set your thermostat to a temperature, it stays at that temperature (assuming it has been sized right and no extreme weather). Some variable speed systems even have the ability to change capacity by 1/10th of a percent. These systems are the most comfortable, the most efficient, and the quietest on the market.
A similar concept holds true for furnaces. There are single stage gas valve furnaces and two-stage gas valve furnaces. A single stage gas valve furnace runs at 100% all the time. A two-stage gas valve furnace is able to run at a reduced level when it's not too cold out, but can run at 100% when needed.
