A new air conditioner is one of the biggest investments you can make in your home. When making large purchases like this, consulting with an HVAC professional assures you that you get the most from the investment. Air conditioners are complex systems, and few outside of the industry have the training to help you determine the size you need, its efficiency and what’s involved with installation and ongoing maintenance.
Size
Size is the first determination an HVAC technician will make when he visits your home for a new air conditioner. The industry uses a tool called Manual J to help size your system. Calculations take into account the following:
- Cubic feet inside your home;
- Number of windows, their energy efficiency and sun exposure;
- Insulation in exterior walls and attic;
- Number of occupants;
- Lifestyle habits;
- Types and location of heat-producing appliances; and
- Yard landscaping.
These factors play into the demands you’ll make on your system. Choosing the right size is important, since units that are too big cost more and don’t cool or remove as much humidity as more appropriately sized air conditioners do.
SEER
After you know the right size for the new air conditioner, the technician demonstrates the difference in the unit’s SEER rating and your electric bill. SEER stands for seasonal energy efficiency ratio and applies to every air conditioner manufactured. The minimum SEER nowadays is 13. Units with higher ratings take less electricity to operate.
Installation
Before the technician installs the air conditioner, he’ll look at your ductwork to verify that it’s leak-free and adequate for the new system. Installation involves placement, wiring, and placing the correct amount of refrigerant in the system.
Maintenance
An HVAC technician outlines the type of maintenance your system will require to run at its optimal energy efficiency. Without regular tuneups for your A/C, worn parts and dust buildups can increase your electric bills while not providing any more cooling power. The technician will discuss the importance of regular filter changes and the best types to use with your new air conditioner.
Ace Hardware Home Services, Inc. has provided HVAC services in the Dayton area for three generations. We can help you select the right air conditioning system for your home before things get hot in Southwest Ohio.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about new air conditioners 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.
