Thinking about getting a new air conditioning system for your home here in the greater Dayton area? Wondering how to find a cooling system that performs well while saving energy and money? It’s easy when you compare efficiency among A/C systems and choose energy-saving features.
To compare relative air conditioning efficiency, use SEER. The seasonal energy efficiency ratio rates overall cooling efficiency, revealing which A/C system will give you the most cooling for each unit of fuel. The rating is arrived at by dividing the average cooling provided per summer by the amount of fuel used. Basically, a higher SEER gives you more bang for your buck. High-SEER units may cost more up front, but will save you money each month on utility bills by using energy more wisely.
Efficiency and convenience enhancers:
- Variable-speed air handling: Without this, your system is either off or on high at all times, with no happy medium.
- Fan-only option: Provides ventilation at night or in cooler summer weather while reducing energy usage.
- Thermal expansion valves: Assure the most efficient operation on the very hottest days. A temperature rating (called an EER or energy efficiency ratio) above 11.6 is recommended for best performance.
- Filter reminder light: Prompts you to clean or replace the filter if dirty, after a certain amount of operating time.
- Auto-delay fan: Switches off the fan just a few minutes after the compressor, allowing residual cool air to get blown out of the system and into your home.
- Proper sizing and installation: To get the most from your air conditioning dollar, seek advice from an experienced HVAC contractor when choosing your system. An expert will be able to calculate the correct size system for your home based on very specific details. When choosing a new A/C, sizing errors are common. Buying an over- or undersized system compromises home comfort and energy savings. Careful, experienced installation is crucial as well, to ensure that your system performs efficiently and has a long life with just routine preventive maintenance.
Questions about SEER and choosing a new A/C? Contact the professionals at Ace Hardware Home Services. Visit our website for valuable information or just give us a call.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about choosing a new A/C and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
Ace Hardware Home Services services the Ohio’s Miami Valley. Visit our website to see our special offers and get started today!
