Purchasing an AC Unit For House That Is Energy Efficient
When you are looking to purchase an air conditioner for your house you need one that is energy efficient. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy it can save. This will save money on energy bills and also prolong the life of your unit.
The four primary types of air conditioners include: window units, central AC heat pumps, central AC and ductless systems.
Size
The size of the size of your AC unit can have a big impact on the amount of energy you use. It is important to take your time in selecting the right model. You need to be sure that the new air conditioner is a good fit for your home. A unit that is not the right size could be too large to cool your home or will not work at all. This will cost you money. A professional HVAC contractor can assist you in choosing the right size unit for your house.
There are many factors that determine the size of your AC unit. Some of these factors are obvious, such as area. Certain factors aren’t so evident, such as the amount of technology or appliances that generate heat in your home. This is because these items produce a lot of heat that your AC has to manage.
It’s also important to consider the climate in your area and the type of building materials that you have employed. Some of these materials reflect and absorb heat differently, which can affect the size of your air conditioning unit. You should also think about how well insulated your home is and the number and type of doors and windows. Some are designed to let a lot of heat in, and could require you to use an even larger AC unit.
It is only after taking into account all of these elements that you can make a precise decision on the best AC unit for your home. A chart of square footage will give you an idea. However, a Manual J load calculator conducted by a professional is the best method to determine the size of AC unit you need.
Once you’ve got the capacity of your AC determined, you can shop for a more specific model. However, it is important to remember that if you have made changes to your home since the last time you replaced your air conditioner, you will need more tonnage for the new space.
Energy Efficiency
Don’t think that more tonnage is better when shopping for an AC unit. A larger unit can cool a house quicker, but it will cost you more in energy costs and wear out more quickly. A well-maintained AC unit that’s of the right size will effectively cool your home and run for a longer time.
Air conditioning units are evaluated by their BTUs, or British Thermal Units. The higher the rating, the more efficient the unit is. On the unit, you’ll find a SEER rating or Seasonal Efficiency Ratio. A lower rating means a less efficient AC.
The size of your AC unit is determined largely by the area of your house. However there are other aspects which play a part in the same way. The amount of windows in your home and the orientation of them towards the sun can impact the quantity of heat transferred to your home. Insulation levels in your home will also affect the transfer of heat. Insulation is particularly important because it can stop cold air from leaving your home as quickly.
When selecting an AC unit, it’s crucial to take into account your family’s lifestyle and habits. People who open their windows and doors open will require air conditioning more frequently than those who close them. You may also consider tax credits for energy-efficient models. These discounts can reduce the price of a new air conditioner. A newer unit will also be more efficient than an older unit.
Noise
When your air conditioner is operating properly, it should make a light humming sound when it’s operating. Other sounds could indicate problems with your unit that need to be addressed right away, such as a buzzing sound or even an audible sound after the system shuts off.
A sound that is loud when your air conditioner is running can be caused by various issues, but it’s essential to have it checked promptly to avoid further damage occurring to your unit. The sound could indicate that it’s time to change your air filter. This is a simple and quick job that doesn’t require the help of an expert.
If your air conditioner is making a rattling sound when it’s turned on, it may be because of an obstruction within the fan. It could be due debris or dirt getting stuck in the unit. A damaged blade or loose components can also cause the fan’s rotation to shake. It is important to inspect the inside of your unit for these types of issues, as they can lead to a broken compressor.
A whining noise is another typical AC issue. This could be due to the fact that the ducts haven’t been properly sealed, which can allow cold air to escape and warm air to get in. This could be due to cracks and holes in the ducts, which need to be repaired immediately.
If you hear a sound of hissing emanating from your air conditioner, it’s usually because there is an air conditioner refrigerant leak. The hissing sound occurs when refrigerant moves from the high-pressure part of the system to the lower pressure side via a metering device with a small orifice. While the hissing sound isn’t an issue however, it is advisable to have it examined by an HVAC technician in case of. The issue could be costly to fix, so it’s best not to ignore it.
Maintenance
No matter if you have a brand new or old air conditioner, it is important to keep up with maintenance. A qualified technician can conduct an in-depth inspection of your unit. This will help you spot small issues before they grow into larger ones. They will test your unit’s voltage, clean and inspect the ductwork, coils, and vents. They will also test the refrigerant level and clear the drain pipe. They will also lubricate your blower motor, thermostat and replace the filter as needed.
Uneven temperatures in the room and inability to get started or a loud and squeaky sound are all signs that your system needs attention. It’s probably the time to upgrade your system, especially if you’ve noticed an increase in your energy costs.
A well-maintained AC will last longer and help you save money over the years. Maintaining your AC unit will ensure that it lasts as long as is possible. This includes replacing filters regularly cleaning and wiping it down outside, and keeping it free of debris.
It is important to keep the surrounding area free of obstructions like leaves, twigs and cobwebs, which could hinder airflow. You can also hose down the coils and fins of the outdoor unit to keep it in good condition. Use a garden hose, not a pressure-washer that could damage the components of the unit.
Certain AC specialists offer maintenance contracts that provide customers with twice-yearly maintenance inspections and reduced costs on parts and accessories. These are a great option if you do not have the time or skills to maintain your equipment or you would like peace of assurance that a technician is monitoring your system. Additionally, many companies give contract customers priority service when a problem arises. This means you won’t be waiting long for an emergency repair in the case of your air conditioning. A good contractor will also provide you with a detailed report of their findings, and offer suggestions for upgrades or repairs.
