Purchasing an AC Unit For House That Is Energy Efficient
You want an energy-efficient ac unit when you purchase one for your home. The more efficient the SEER the better energy is saved. This will save you money on energy costs and will also extend the life of your unit.
The four main types of air conditioners are window units, central AC heat pumps and ductless systems.
Size
The size of the size of your AC unit can have a big impact on the amount of energy you consume. It is important to take your time when choosing the right unit. You need to be sure that the new air conditioner is appropriate for your home. An incorrectly sized unit will either work too hard to keep your house cool or will not be able to perform 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 a variety of factors that determine the size of your AC unit. Some of these factors are obvious, like the square footage. Certain factors aren’t so evident, such as the amount of heating appliances or technologies within your home. These devices generate a lot of heat that your AC has to deal with.
It is also important to consider the climate of your area and the kind of materials you used. Certain materials reflect and absorb heat differently, which could affect the size of your air conditioning unit. It is also important to consider the level of insulation your house is as well as the quantity and type of doors and windows. Certain of them are designed to let plenty of heat through and could require that you use a bigger AC unit.
It is only after taking into account all of these aspects that you can make a sound decision on the best AC unit for your home. A chart of square footage will give you a general idea. However, a Manual J load calculator conducted by a professional is the best method of determining the size AC unit you require.
Once you’ve got the capacity of your AC system determined then you can search for a specific model. You might need to increase the tonnage of your air conditioner if you’ve made some changes to your home since the last time you replaced it.
Energy Efficiency
When shopping for an AC unit, don’t believe that a larger capacity is more efficient. A larger unit can chill a home faster, but it will cost you more energy costs and premature wear. A well-maintained AC unit that’s of the right size will efficiently cool your home and run for a longer lifespan.
Air conditioning units are rated according to their BTUs, also known as British Thermal Units. The higher the rating the more efficient it is. On the unit, you’ll see the SEER rating, also known as the Seasonal Efficiency Ratio. A lower SEER rating indicates a less efficient AC.
The square footage of your home is one of the most important factors that determine the size of your AC unit. However, there are other factors that are important too. The number of windows in your home and their orientation towards the sun can affect the amount of heat that is transferred to your home. The insulation level of your home will also have an impact. Insulation is crucial since it prevents cold air from venting as quickly.
When selecting an AC unit, it’s crucial to take into account the lifestyle of your family and their habits. For instance, those who frequently open windows and doors will have to use their AC more often than a household that keeps them shut. It’s also recommended to research tax credits that might be available for models that are energy efficient. These discounts can help lower the price of a new air conditioner. A newer model will also be more efficient than an older unit.
Noise
If your air conditioner functions well, it will only produce a sound that hums when it’s operating. If you hear any other sounds, it could be an indication that your unit is malfunctioning.
A ringing sound that occurs when your air conditioner is on could be the result of a variety of issues, but it’s important to have it checked promptly to prevent further damage from happening to the unit. For example the sound could be an indication that it’s time for a change in your air filter and is a simple and quick task which doesn’t require the assistance of a professional.
It’s possible that the fan is obstructed if your air conditioner makes an eerie sound when it’s turned on. It could be due to dirt or debris that’s stuck inside the unit or a damaged blade or loose components that could cause the fan to rattle as it rotates. It’s important to check the inside of your unit for these kinds of issues, as they can cause a compressor to fail.
A whining sound is a common AC issue. It could be because the ducts aren’t sealed properly and allow cold air to escape and warm air to get in. This can also be caused by cracks or holes in the ducts that need to be fixed as soon as is possible.
If you hear a hissing sound coming from your air conditioner, it’s because there is a leak in the refrigerant. The hissing sound happens when the refrigerant moves from the high pressure side of the system to the low pressure side, via an instrument for metering that has a small opening. Although the sound of hissing isn’t an issue but it’s a good idea to have it checked by an HVAC technician just in case. This problem can be expensive to solve, so it’s better not to ignore it.
Maintenance
No matter if you have a brand new or used air conditioner, it is important to ensure that you are keeping up with maintenance. A qualified technician can conduct an in-depth inspection of your unit. This will help you identify small problems before they grow into larger ones. They will test your unit’s voltage, clean and inspect the coils, ductwork, and vents. They will also check the refrigerant level, and clean the drain pipe. They will also lubricate the blower motor and thermostat and replace your filter, if required.
Uneven temperatures in the room and inability to get started or hear a loud and squeaky sound are all signs that your system is in need of 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 will last longer and help you save money over the course of time. Keeping up with maintenance tasks like replacing the filters regularly as well as washing and wiping the unit outside and keeping it free of dust will allow you to get the most years out of your ac unit.
In addition to regular maintenance, it’s wise to trim the foliage around the unit and keep the area free of twigs, leaves, cobwebs and other debris that could block the airflow. You can also wash the coils and fins of the outdoor unit to keep it clean. Make sure you use a standard garden hose, not a pressure washer which could damage the unit’s parts.
Some AC companies offer maintenance agreements that give customers two-yearly maintenance inspections as well as reduced prices on accessories and parts. These are a great option if you do not have the time or expertise to maintain your equipment yourself or you would like peace of peace of mind knowing that a technician is watching your system. Many contractors also give priority service to contract customers whenever a problem arises. You won’t need to wait long for an air conditioner emergency repair. A reputable contractor will provide you with an in-depth report on their findings, and make recommendations for upgrades or repairs.
