Purchasing an AC Unit For House That Is Energy Efficient

When you are looking to purchase an air conditioner for your house you need one that is energy efficient. The higher the SEER the higher the SEER, the more energy is saved. This will help you save money on energy costs and will also extend the life of your unit.

There are four major types of air conditioning systems: window units (central AC), heat pumps and ductless systems.

Size

The size of an AC unit can make a significant difference in how much you pay for energy. Selecting the right unit isn’t something to be rushed through. You need to make sure that the new AC is the correct size for your home. A unit that isn’t the right size could be too large to cool your home, or will not work in any way. This could cost you money. A qualified HVAC contractor can help you determine the best size unit for your home.

There are a variety of factors that go into determining the right size of an AC unit for your house. Some of them are obvious, like the square footage. Other factors are not as obvious, such as the amount of technology that generates heat or appliances in your home. These devices generate a lot of heat, which your air conditioner must handle.

It’s also important to consider the climate of your area and the type of building materials that you have used. Some of these materials reflect and absorb heat differently, which could affect the size of your air conditioning unit. You should also think about how well insulated your home is as well as the quantity and types of doors and windows. Certain of them are designed to let a lot of heat into the house and will require you to use a larger AC unit.

Incorporating all of these aspects in consideration is the only way to make an 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 performed by a professional is the best method of determining the size AC unit you require.

Once you know the capacity of your AC determined then you can search for a model that is more specific. However, it is important to remember that if you have made changes to your home in the time since the last time you replaced your air conditioner, it’s possible you will need more tonnage for the new space.

Energy Efficiency

Don’t think that more tonnage is more efficient when choosing an AC unit. A bigger unit will chill a home faster, but at the expense of higher energy costs and premature wear. A well-maintained AC unit that’s of the right size will effectively cool your home and run for a longer time.

British Thermal Units (BTUs) are used to assess the efficiency of air conditioning units. The higher the rating, the more efficient it is. On the unit, you’ll find the SEER rating, also known as the Seasonal Efficiency Ratio. A lower rating means a less efficient AC.

The area of your home is one of the most important factors that determine the size of your air conditioner. However, there are other factors that are important too. For example, the number of windows and their position towards the sun will influence the amount of heat transferred to your home. Your home’s level of insulation can also impact the energy efficiency of your home. Insulation is crucial because it prevents cold air from leaving at the same speed.

It’s also important to consider the habits of your family and lifestyle when selecting an AC unit. For instance, those who tend to open windows and doors will have to use their AC more frequently than households that keep them shut. It’s also a good idea to explore tax credits that are sometimes available for models that are energy efficient. These discounts can substantially reduce the cost of a new air conditioner. A newer unit will also be more energy-efficient than a unit that is older.

Noise

When your air conditioner is working well, it should only make a slight humming sound when it’s operating. If you notice any other sounds this could be a sign the unit isn’t functioning properly.

The buzzing noise that occurs when your air conditioner is running is a result of various issues. It is crucial to check it promptly to avoid further damage to your unit. For instance, the sound can be a sign that it’s time to replace your air filter, which is an easy and quick job that won’t require a professional.

If your air conditioner is making a rattling sound when it’s turned on, it may be because of an obstruction in the fan. It could be due to debris or dirt that’s stuck in the unit or by a damaged blade or a loose component that could cause the fan to shake as it spins. It is important to inspect the inside of your unit for these kinds of problems, as they can result in a damaged compressor.

Another common AC problem is when it begins to produce a whining sound when it’s running. It could be because the ducts aren’t properly sealed. This allows cold air to escape and warm air to get in. This could be due to holes and cracks in ducts that need to be fixed immediately.

A refrigerant leak is usually the reason for a hissing sound coming from your air conditioning. The hissing sound occurs when refrigerant moves from the high-pressure end 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. This problem can be expensive to solve, so it’s better not to ignore it.

Maintenance

It is essential to maintain your air conditioner, regardless of whether it’s new or old. A qualified technician can conduct an in-depth inspection of your unit. This will allow you to identify small problems before they turn into bigger ones. They will test the unit’s voltage, clean and examine the ductwork, coils and vents. They will also check the refrigerant level, and clean the drain pipe. They will also lubricate the blower motor as well as the thermostat, and replace your filter if necessary.

Uneven temperature in the room or inability to turn on the system or loud and squeaky sounds are all signs that it requires attention. It may also be time to consider an upgrade, especially if your energy bills have been going up.

A well-maintained AC unit will last longer than one that is neglected, and you’ll save lots of money on your energy bills over time. Maintaining your unit will ensure that it lasts for as long as possible. This means replacing filters on a regular basis as well as cleaning and wiping the unit down outside, and making sure that the unit is free of dirt.

In addition to regular maintenance, it’s recommended to trim any vegetation around the unit. Also, keep the area clear of leaves, twigs, cobwebs, and other debris that can block the airflow. You can also wash the fins and coils of the outdoor unit to keep it in good condition. Use a garden hose, not a pressure washer that could damage the components of the unit.

Some AC companies offer maintenance contracts that provide customers with two-yearly maintenance inspections as well as reduced rates on parts and accessories. They are a great choice when you don’t have the time or knowledge to maintain your equipment, or you want peace of mind knowing that a technician is watching your system. A lot of contractors offer priority service to customers of contract whenever a problem arises. This means that you won’t have to wait long for an emergency repair call for your air conditioning. A reputable contractor will give you an in-depth report of their findings and provide recommendations for repairs or upgrades.