Purchasing an AC Unit For House That Is Energy Efficient
When buying an air conditioner for your home, you want one that is energy efficient. The more efficient the SEER rating, the more energy it will save. This will save you money in energy costs and lengthen the life of your unit.
The four primary types of air conditioners are: window units, central AC heat pumps and ductless systems.
Size
The size of an AC unit can make a huge difference in how much you spend on energy costs. Selecting the right unit isn’t something you should rush through. You must make sure that the new AC is the correct size for your home. If it’s not the right size could be too big to cool your home, or won’t work in any way. This can cost you money. A professional HVAC contractor can assist you in choosing the proper size unit for your home.
There are several different factors that determine the right size of an AC unit for your house. Some of them are obvious, like the square footage. There are other factors that aren’t as evident, such as the amount of technology or appliances that generate heat within your home. This is because these appliances generate a lot of heat that your air conditioner has to manage.
It’s also important to consider the climate in your area as well as the type of building materials you’ve used. Some materials absorb and reflect heat in different ways, which can affect the size of your AC unit. You also need to think about how well your home is insulated as well as the number of windows and doors you have. Some of these are designed for letting a lot heat in and might require you to use an even larger AC unit.
Incorporating all of these aspects into account is the only method to make an accurate decision regarding the right AC unit for your home. You can utilize a chart of square footage to get an idea of the general size but the best way to find out what size of AC you require is to use a manual J load calculation done by an expert.
Once you know the tonnage of your AC determined, you can shop for a model that is more specific. But, it is important to note that if you’ve made modifications to your home since the last time you replaced your air conditioner, it’s possible that you’ll need more power for the new space.
Energy Efficiency
When looking for an AC unit, don’t think that more tonnage is better. A larger unit will chill a home faster, but at the cost of increased energy bills and premature wear. A well-maintained AC unit of the proper size will cool your home efficiently and last longer.
Air conditioning units are evaluated by their BTUs, also known as British Thermal Units. The higher the rating the more efficient the unit is. On the unit, you’ll see a SEER rating or Seasonal Efficiency Ratio. A lower SEER rating indicates a less efficient AC.
The area of your home is one of the main factors that determine the size of your AC. There are also other factors to consider. The amount of windows in your home, as well as their orientation towards the sun can impact the quantity of heat transferred to your home. The level of insulation in your home can also impact the transfer of heat. Insulation is crucial because it can stop cold air from exiting your home as fast.
It’s also important to think about the lifestyle and habits of your family when choosing an AC unit. People who open their windows and doors open will need to use AC more often than those who keep them closed. It’s also recommended to research tax credits that may be available for energy-efficient models. These discounts can substantially reduce the cost of buying a new air conditioner. A newer model will be more efficient than a unit that is older.
Noise
If your air conditioner is operating well, it will make a slight sound that hums when it’s operating. Other sounds could indicate issues in your unit that need to be addressed immediately for example, an eerie sound or an audible sound after the system is shut off.
The ringing sound that occurs when your air conditioner is running can be caused by many different issues. It is crucial to check it as soon as you can to prevent any further damage to your unit. The sound could indicate that it’s time to change your air filter. This is a straightforward and quick job that doesn’t require the assistance of an expert.
If your air conditioner is making a loud rumbling sound when it’s on, it could be because of an obstruction in the fan. This can be caused by debris or dirt that’s stuck in the unit or a damaged blade or a loose component that could cause the fan to shake as it spins. Examine the inside of the unit to see whether you have any of these issues. They can lead to a faulty compressor.
A whining sound is a frequent AC problem. This can be because the ducts haven’t been properly sealed and allow cold air to escape and warm air to enter. This can be caused by holes and cracks in ducts, which need to be repaired immediately.
A refrigerant leak is typically the reason for a hissing noise coming from your air conditioner. The hissing noise occurs when refrigerant is moved from the high-pressure part of the system to the low-pressure side via a metering device with a small opening. While the hissing sound isn’t a major issue but it’s a good idea to have it looked at by an HVAC technician just in case. It can be costly to correct this issue therefore don’t leave it unattended.
Maintenance
Whether you have a new or older air conditioner, it’s essential to maintain it. A certified professional will give your unit an general inspection, which will help you identify small issues before they turn into major ones. They will test your unit’s voltage, clean and examine the ductwork, coils, and vents. They will also check the refrigerant level, and clean the drain pipe. They will also lubricate your blower motor, thermostat and replace the filter if necessary.
Uneven temperature in the room, inability to start the system or loud and squeaky sounds are all signs that it requires attention. It’s probably the time to upgrade your system, particularly in the event that you’ve noticed an increase in your energy bills.
A well-maintained AC unit will last longer than one that’s neglected and will save you a lot of money on your energy bills over time. Maintaining your AC’s maintenance routine like replacing the filters regularly cleaning and wiping the unit outside and keeping it clear of dirt will allow you to get the most years from your AC unit.
It is essential to keep the surrounding area free of obstructions like leaves, twigs, and cobwebs that can restrict airflow. You can also wash the coils and fins of the outdoor unit to keep it in good condition. Use a garden hose, not a pressure washer which could cause damage to the components of the unit.
Some AC companies now offer maintenance contracts that provide customers with two-yearly maintenance inspections as well as reduced rates on parts and accessories. They are a great choice for those who don’t have the time or knowledge to maintain your equipment or if you want peace of mind knowing that a technician is in charge of your system. In addition, many contractors offer priority service to customers on contract when a problem arises. You won’t have to wait for too long for an air conditioning emergency repair. A reputable contractor will give you a comprehensive report of their findings, and offer recommendations for upgrades or repairs.
