Purchasing an AC Unit For House That Is Energy Efficient
You’ll want a more efficient ac unit when you purchase one for your home. The greater the SEER the higher the SEER, the more energy is saved. This will help you save money on energy bills and also prolong the life of your unit.
The four main types of air conditioners include: window units, central AC, heat pumps, and ductless systems.
Size
The size of an AC unit can make a huge difference in the amount you pay for energy. It’s important to be patient in selecting the right model. It is essential to make sure that your new air conditioner will fit your home. If it’s not properly sized, it will either work too hard to keep your home cool or won’t be able to complete the task in the first place, which will cost you money. A professional HVAC contractor can help you determine the right size unit for your home.
There are many factors that determine the size of your AC unit. Some of them are obvious, such as square footage. Other factors are not as evident, like the amount of technology that generates heat or appliances within your home. This is because these appliances produce a lot of heat that your air conditioner has to handle.
It is also important to consider the climate in your area, as well as the kind of building materials you’ve employed. Some materials reflect and absorb heat in various ways, which can affect the size of your AC unit. You should also think about how well insulated your home is as well as the quantity and types of windows and doors. Some of these are designed to let a lot of heat in and may require an even larger AC unit.
It is only by weighing all of these aspects that you can make a precise decision about the best AC unit for your home. A square footage chart will give you a general idea. However, a manual J load calculator that is performed 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 system determined, you can shop for a specific model. But, it is important to note that if you’ve made modifications to your home since the last time you replaced your air conditioner, that you’ll need more power for the new space.
Energy Efficiency
Don’t believe that more tonnage means better when you are shopping for an AC unit. A bigger unit will cool your home quicker however it will cost you more in energy costs and wear out more quickly. A properly maintained AC unit of the right size will cool your home efficiently and last longer.
British Thermal Units (BTUs) are used to evaluate air conditioning units. The higher the rating the more efficient the unit is. You’ll also notice a SEER rating, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio on the unit. A lower rating indicates an inefficient AC.
The square footage of your home is one of the most important factors that determine the size of your AC. There are also other factors to consider. The amount of windows in your home and their orientation towards the sun can affect the amount of heat that is transferred to your home. The level of insulation in your home will also have an impact. Insulation is especially important since it will prevent cold air from exiting your home at a rapid rate.
It’s also important to consider your family’s habits and lifestyle when deciding on an AC unit. If you leave your doors and windows open will need to use AC more often than those who close them. It is also possible to look into tax credits for models that are energy efficient. 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 unit.
Noise
When your air conditioner is working properly, it should make a slight humming sound when it’s operating. If you notice any other sounds that aren’t, it could be a sign your unit is not functioning properly.
The sound that is heard when your air conditioner runs could be the result of various issues. It is important to check it promptly in order to avoid further damage to your system. The sound could be a sign it’s time to change your air filter. It’s a simple and quick task that doesn’t require the help of a professional.
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 to debris or dirt that has accumulated in the unit, a damaged blade, or loose components that can cause the fan to shake as it rotates. Check the inside of your unit to see whether there’s any of these problems. They can lead to a faulty compressor.
A whining sound is a frequent AC issue. This can be because the ducts aren’t sealed properly which allows cold air to escape and warm air to enter. This can also be caused by holes or cracks in the ducts that need to be repaired as quickly as possible.
A leak in refrigerant is typically the reason for a hissing noise that is heard from your air conditioner. The hissing sound occurs when refrigerant moves from the high-pressure side of the system to the lower pressure side through a metering unit with a small orifice. Although the sound of hissing is not a big deal 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
It is essential to maintain your air conditioner, whether it’s new or old. A qualified professional will give the unit an overall inspection, and this can help you find minor issues before they grow into larger ones. They will test your unit’s voltage, clean and examine the coils, ductwork, and vents. They will also test the refrigerant levels and clean the drain pipe. They will also lubricate the blower motor as well as the thermostat and replace your filter if needed.
Uneven room temperature, inability to start the system, or loud and squeaky sounds are all indications that it needs attention. It could be time to consider an upgrade, especially when your energy bills are increasing.
A well-maintained AC unit will last longer than one that’s neglected, and you’ll save a lot of money on your energy bills over the years. Maintaining your unit will ensure that it lasts for as long as is possible. This includes replacing filters on a regular basis cleaning and wiping the unit down outside, and keeping the unit free of any debris.
It is essential to keep the space around the unit free of debris such as leaves, twigs and cobwebs that could restrict airflow. You can also wash the coils and fins of the outdoor unit to keep it clean. Use a garden hose, not a pressure-washer that could harm the parts of the unit.
Certain AC experts offer maintenance agreements that include inspections twice a year, and also discounted prices on parts and accessories. They are a great choice for those who don’t have the time or skills to maintain your equipment on your own, or you want peace of mind knowing that a technician is watching your system. Additionally, many contractors offer priority service to customers on contract whenever a problem occurs. This means you don’t need to wait for long to receive an emergency repair for your air cooling. A reputable contractor will give you an in-depth report on their findings and provide suggestions for repairs or upgrades.