Purchasing an AC Unit For House That Is Energy Efficient
When purchasing an ac unit for your home, you want one that is energy efficient. The higher the SEER the higher the SEER, the more energy is saved. This will save money on energy bills and also prolong the life of your unit.
There are four main kinds of air conditioning: window units (central AC), heat pumps, ductless systems and heat.
Size
The size of an AC unit can make a significant difference in how much you spend on energy costs. Choosing the right unit isn’t something to rush through. You need to ensure that the new air conditioner is the right size for your home. An incorrectly sized unit will either work too hard to keep your house cool or will not be able to complete the task effectively, which could cost you money. A professional HVAC contractor will assist you to determine the correct size unit for your home.
There are several different factors that determine the right size of an AC unit for your home. Some of these are obvious, like the square footage. Other aspects aren’t as evident, like the amount of heat-generating technology or appliances in your home. These items produce a lot heat that your AC must handle.
You should also consider the climate in your area and the kind of materials you employed. Some of these materials absorb and reflect heat differently, which can affect the size of your air conditioning unit. It is also important to consider whether your home is insulated as well as the number of windows and doors you have. Some are designed to let a lot of heat into the house and will require a larger AC unit.
It is only by weighing all of these factors that you can make an accurate choice about the most suitable AC unit for your house. A square footage chart will give you a general idea. However, a manual J load calculator that is performed by an expert is the most effective way to determine what size AC unit you need.
Once you have the capacity of your AC unit identified and you are able to shop for a more specific model. But, it is important to note that if you have made modifications to your home since the last time you replaced your air conditioner, you will need more tonnage for the new space.
Energy Efficiency
When looking for an AC unit, don’t believe that more tonnage is more efficient. A bigger unit will cool a house quicker however it will cost you more in energy bills and wear out more quickly. A well-maintained AC unit of the right size will efficiently cool your home and last longer.
Air conditioning units are rated by their BTUs, also known as British Thermal Units. The higher the BTU rating, the more efficient the unit is. On the unit, you’ll find the SEER rating, also known as the Seasonal Efficiency Ratio. A lower SEER rating means an inefficient AC.
The size of your air conditioner is determined largely by the square footage of your house. There are also other factors to consider. The number of windows in your home and the orientation of them towards the sun could affect the amount of heat transferred to your home. The level of insulation in your home will also affect the quality of your home. Insulation is crucial because it stops cold air from leaving as swiftly.
It’s also important to take into consideration the lifestyle and habits of your family when choosing an AC unit. For instance, those who tend to open windows and doors will have to use their AC more frequently than a family that keeps them closed. It’s also recommended to research tax credits that may be available for energy-efficient models. These discounts can help lower the cost of purchasing a new air conditioner. A newer model will also be more energy efficient than an older model.
Noise
When your air conditioner works properly, it will make a slight sound that hums when it’s running. Any other sounds could indicate issues in your unit that need to be fixed right away, such as an eerie sound or a banging sound after the system is shut off.
A sound that is loud when your air conditioner is running could be the result of many different problems, but it’s crucial to check it out in the earliest time possible to prevent further damage from occurring to the unit. For example the sound could be a sign that it’s time to replace your air filter, which is an easy and quick job that doesn’t require a specialist.
If your air conditioner is making a rattling sound when it’s turned on, it could be due to an obstruction within the fan. It could be due to dirt or debris stuck in the unit. A damaged blade or loose component could also cause the fan’s rotor to shake. It’s important to check the inside of your unit for these kinds of issues, since they can result in a damaged compressor.
Another common AC problem is when it begins to produce a whining sound when it’s running. It could be because the ducts aren’t sealed properly, which can allow cold air to escape from them and warm air to get in. This could be due to cracks and holes in ducts, which need to be repaired immediately.
A refrigerant leak is typically the cause of a hissing noise coming from your air conditioner. The hissing sound is caused by the refrigerant moves from the high pressure side of the system to the low pressure side, through an instrument for metering that has a small opening. Even though the hissing sound is not a major problem, it is always an ideal idea to have an HVAC technician examine it just in case. This issue can be costly to fix, so it’s best not to ignore it.
Maintenance
It is essential to maintain your air conditioner, regardless of whether it is new or old. A trained professional can give an in-depth inspection of your unit. This will allow you to identify small problems before they turn into bigger ones. They will test your unit’s voltage, clean and inspect the coils, ductwork, and vents. They will also assess the refrigerant level, and clean the drain pipe. They will also lubricate the blower motor and thermostat, and replace your filter if needed.
Uneven room temperature, inability to start the system, or making the loud and squeaky sound are all indications that the system requires attention. It might be time to consider a replacement, especially when your energy bills have been rising.
A well-maintained AC will last longer and save you money over time. Maintaining your unit will ensure it lasts for as long as possible. This includes replacing filters frequently as well as cleaning and wiping it down outside, and keeping it free of debris.
In addition to regular maintenance, it’s wise to trim the foliage around the unit. Also, keep the area clear of twigs, leaves, cobwebs, and other debris that can block the airflow. You can also hose the coils and fins to keep the outdoor unit free of dirt. Be sure to use a regular garden hose and not a pressure washer which could damage the unit’s components.
Certain AC specialists provide maintenance contracts that buy customers twice-yearly maintenance inspections and reduced rates on parts and accessories. These are a great option if you do not have the time or the skills to maintain your equipment on your own, or you want peace of mind knowing that a technician is monitoring your system. A lot of contractors offer priority service to customers of contract when a problem occurs. This means you won’t need to wait for long to receive an emergency repair call for your air cooling. A good contractor will also provide you with a thorough report of their findings and make suggestions for upgrades or repairs.
