Factors to Consider When Installing an Air Conditioner

Upgrading an air conditioner or buying a new one can significantly improve the comfort of your home. However, when installing an AC system, you need to make important considerations. Here is a look at some key points to consider before an air conditioning installation.

1. Size

The size of your AC is essential for cooling your home. If you buy a large unit, it will reduce the temperature of your house too fast. This means the system will cycle repeatedly on and off, which is a waste of energy.

On the other hand, a small unit will run nonstop trying to keep your home comfortable, and this would lead to wear and tear in a short period and increase your energy costs. You should ask an AC contractor to advise you on the appropriate AC based on the ACCA's Manual J. This manual calculates how big your system should be based on the size of your home.

2. Climate

Climate can play a significant role in determining the type of cooling products you are going to install. Central and heat pump air conditioners can lower humidity through normal conditions. However, for high humidity conditions, you will need an actual dehumidifier.

When the humidity is too low, this will also be uncomfortable for you. In such cases, you will need to install an evaporative cooler. These types of units bring humidity to your home while cooling it. Cold temperatures will also affect the efficiency of your AC. Therefore, you need to seek advice from an AC technician about the best model based on the climate conditions.

3. SEER Rating

The metrics used for denoting efficiency within an air conditioner are Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) and Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER). The efficiency of an air conditioner will dictate how much energy you save. These metrics also help you compare different air conditioner models to determine if you are getting the best value for your cash.

Generally, air conditioners with a higher EER or SEER rating tend to be more expensive. However, the energy savings compensate for the high cost. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) set the SEER minimum requirement to 14. Therefore, aim for a rating of 14 and above.

When many people are shopping for air conditioners, they focus on price and manufacturer. However, there are many other considerations you should make to buy the right AC for your home. To learn more, contact local AC installation services.