If you want to know your AC’s cooling capacity, you can find the number of BTUs it produces on the side of the unit, along with other essential information. Are all those BTUs reaching your home, though, or are you wasting energy and wearing out your system? Here are a few things to check to ensure that your AC is running at full capacity.
- Age. Every system degrades over time. You can maintain efficiency longer with annual tuneups, but eventually, the unit will still wear out. If your AC is more than a decade old, it’s likely not running at full capacity anymore and should be replaced with a more efficient system.
- Size. On average, an 1,800-square-foot home needs a 3-ton-capacity AC to cool it properly. However, there are other factors that can affect this figure as well, such as the height of your ceilings, the size and location of your windows, and more. If your AC is the wrong size for your home, it can affect the system’s cooling capacity, causing it to work harder and use more energy while still leaving your home uncomfortable.
- Airflow. Restricted airflow is one of the most common ways your AC’s functional capacity can be reduced. If your filter is clogged, air can’t flow freely through it and your unit won’t provide proper cooling. Likewise, if there’s anything blocking your vents or registers, it can reduce your airflow. Make sure your vents are fully open, and move any furniture or other obstructions that may be around them, leaving at least 6 to 12 inches of clearance for good airflow.
- Leaks. Leaks can reduce your system’s full capacity, causing it to run less efficiently. Air leaks allow outdoor air to displace the cooled indoor air. Ductwork leaks keep the cool air from reaching your home in the first place. Finally, refrigerant leaks keep your system from cooling the air efficiently, wasting energy and damaging the system.
If you want your AC to run at full capacity and maximum efficiency, contact us at Ace Hardware Home Services. We provide quality heating and cooling solutions to the Dayton area.
