Which HVAC Unit Is Best For You?
Which HVAC Unit Is Right For You?
Choosing the right air conditioner for your home in Central Texas can be overwhelming—especially when you’re faced with terms like understanding SEER ratings, single-stage vs. two-stage compressors, and humidity control.
At Austex Air, we’re dedicated to simplifying the process, making it easy for you to select the right Bryant HVAC system that matches your home’s size, your comfort needs, and your budget.
Understanding Your HVAC Needs
When selecting an HVAC system, here are 3 things to consider:
Efficiency (SEER Rating):
Higher SEER ratings indicate greater efficiency, lowering your hourly operational costs. Decide whether you prefer the minimum standard efficiency (15 SEER) or a higher efficiency unit (up to 24 SEER), balancing upfront costs against long-term savings.
System Type (Single-stage, Two-stage, Variable-Speed):
Consider whether a simpler, single-stage system suits your needs or if upgrading to a two-stage or variable-speed system would be beneficial, offering superior comfort control, efficiency, and built-in dehumidification.Smart System Capabilities and Alerts:
Evaluate the benefit of smart technology, such as automatic alerts sent directly to you and your HVAC contractor, allowing for proactive maintenance and fewer unexpected breakdowns.
Good Option: Legacy™ Line Central Air Conditioners
The Legacy™ Line offers a budget-friendly yet efficient cooling solution, ideal for homeowners seeking straightforward reliability.

Key Benefits:
- Efficiency up to 16.5 SEER2, providing cost-effective cooling.
- Single-Stage Compressor: Runs at full capacity when on, then cycles off.
- Quiet operation (71 dB, similar to everyday conversation).
- Compatible with Bryant’s Wi-Fi® Smart Thermostat for easy remote access and energy monitoring.
- Environmentally friendly Puron Advance™ refrigerant.
Better Option: Preferred™ 2-Stage Air Conditioner with InteliSense Technology™
The Preferred™ Series delivers superior comfort and efficiency by offering a balance of advanced technology and performance.
Key Benefits:
- Efficiency up to 18 SEER2, reducing your energy bills significantly.
- Two-Stage Compressor: Operates on low speed most times, only kicking into high gear on extremely hot days, ensuring consistent comfort and better humidity control.
- InteliSense Technology™ allows for remote system health monitoring by your dealer, enabling proactive maintenance.
- Quiet performance (as low as 67 dB, comparable to a quiet vacuum).

Perfect For:
- Homeowners prioritizing both comfort and energy savings.
- Medium to large homes, particularly beneficial for managing Central Texas humidity effectively.
Best Option: Evolution™ Extreme Variable-Speed Air Conditioner
Bryant’s Evolution™ Extreme represents top-tier HVAC technology, designed for homeowners seeking ultimate comfort, efficiency, and quiet operation. This is the system that I installed in my own home because of the humidity technology.
Key Benefits:
- Exceptional efficiency up to 21 SEER2, maximizing energy savings.
- Variable-Speed Compressor: Adjusts cooling output incrementally (from 25% to 100%), providing precise temperature and superior humidity control.
- Ultra-quiet operation (as low as 55 dB, softer than normal conversation).
- Soft start technology helps reduce electrical load, important during high-heat days when energy grids can become strained.
- Outstanding compatibility with zoned systems, allowing custom temperature settings throughout your home.
Additional Considerations: Hard Start Kits
Central Texas summers regularly see temperatures soaring above 100°F, causing your HVAC to work harder.
What Hard-Start kits do for your unit:
- Reduce the initial electrical current needed to start your AC compressor.
- Extend the life of your HVAC unit.
- Help prevent unexpected breakdowns during peak heat.
Stay Cool, North Austin

Don’t wait until the its too hot outside to make sure your HVAC system is ready. Schedule your Spring maintenance today with Austex Air Conditioning & Heating to protect your home, stay comfortable, and avoid costly repairs down the line. Our certified technicians are trained to keep your system safe and efficient, so you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your family is protected.
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