Purchasing an AC Unit For House That Is Energy Efficient
When you are looking to purchase an air conditioner for your home you need one that is energy efficient. The greater the SEER, the more energy is saved. This will save you money on energy costs as well as 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 your AC unit can have a major impact on the amount of energy you consume. The selection of the right model isn’t something to rush through. You need to make sure that the new AC is the right size for your home. A unit that isn’t properly sized is either working too hard to keep your house cool or will not be able to do the job effectively, which could cost you money. A qualified HVAC contractor can help you determine the right size unit for your home.
There are a variety of factors that determine the size of your AC unit. Some of these are obvious, such as the square footage. Certain factors aren’t so evident, such as the amount of technology or appliances that generate heat within your home. These appliances generate a lot of heat, which your AC must handle.
You should also take into consideration the climate of your area and what type of materials you employed. Some of these materials reflect and absorb heat differently, which can impact the size of your air conditioning unit. You should also consider the degree of insulation your home is as well as the quantity and kind of windows and doors. Certain of them are designed to let a lot of heat in and may require an even larger AC unit.
It is only by weighing all of these elements that you can make a sound decision on the best AC unit for your house. A chart of square footage will give you a general idea. However, a Manual J load calculator that is performed by a professional is the best method to determine the size of AC unit you require.
When you know the amount, you can choose the model that is suitable. You may need to increase the tonnage of your air conditioner if you’ve made changes to your home since the last time you replaced it.
Energy Efficiency
Don’t assume more tonnage means better when shopping for an AC unit. A bigger unit will cool a home faster however it will cost you more in energy costs and wear out more quickly. A well-maintained AC unit that’s of the right size will efficiently cool your home and last for a longer lifespan.
Air conditioning units are evaluated by their BTUs, which is British Thermal Units. The higher the rating the more efficient it is. You’ll also see an SEER rating, also known as Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, on the unit. A lower SEER rating means 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 aspects which play a part in the same way. For example, the number of windows as well as their orientation to the sun will affect the amount of heat that is transferred to your home. Insulation levels in your home can also impact heat transfer. Insulation is crucial because it prevents cold air from exiting your home as quickly.
When selecting an AC unit, you need to consider the lifestyle and habits of your family. For instance, those who frequently open windows and doors will have to use their AC more often than a family that keeps them shut. You can also look into tax credits for models that are energy efficient. These discounts can reduce the price of a new air conditioner. Additionally, a more modern unit is likely to be more energy efficient than an older model.
Noise
When your air conditioner is operating well, it should only produce a light humming noise when it’s operating. If you notice any other sounds that aren’t, it could be a sign your unit is malfunctioning.
A sound that is loud when your air conditioner is on could be the result of many different problems, but it’s crucial to have it checked promptly to prevent further damage from occurring to your unit. The sound could be a sign it’s time to change your air filter. This is a straightforward and quick task that doesn’t require the help of a professional.
It’s possible that the fan is obstructed if your air conditioner makes an eerie sound when it’s on. It could be due dirt or debris stuck inside the unit. A damaged blade or loose components can cause the fan’s movement to rattle. It is important to inspect the inside of your unit for these kinds of problems, as they can cause a compressor to fail.
A whining sound is a common AC issue. This could be due to the fact that the ducts haven’t been properly sealed and allow cold air to escape and warm air to enter. This can also be caused by holes or cracks in the ducts, which need to be repaired as quickly as possible.
If you hear a sound of hissing coming from your air conditioner, it’s usually due to an air conditioner refrigerant leak. The hissing sound occurs when the refrigerant moves from the high pressure side of the system to the lower pressure side, via an instrument for metering that has a small opening. Even though the hissing noise isn’t a major issue, it is always recommended to have an HVAC technician look into it just in the event of. This issue can be costly to fix, so it’s best not to ignore it.
Maintenance
It is essential to maintain your air conditioner, regardless of whether it’s brand new or old. A qualified technician can conduct your unit a thorough inspection. This will help you identify small problems before they grow into larger ones. They will test the unit’s voltage, clean and inspect the ductwork, coils and vents. They will also test the refrigerant level and clear the drain pipe. They will also grease your thermostat, blower motor and replace the filter if necessary.
Uneven room temperature or inability to turn on the system, or making noisy and squeaky sounds are all indications that the system requires attention. It might be time to replace your system, especially 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. Making sure you are keeping up with maintenance tasks like changing the filters regularly as well as washing and wiping the unit outside and keeping it free of dirt will ensure that you get the most years from your AC unit.
It’s important to keep the surrounding area free of any debris, such as leaves, twigs and cobwebs, which could restrict airflow. You can also wash the coils and fins 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.
Certain AC experts offer maintenance agreements that include inspections twice a year, as well as reduced prices on parts and accessories. They are a great choice when you don’t have the time to maintain your own equipment, or if you’d like peace of mind knowing that a qualified technician is monitoring your system. In addition, many contractors provide priority service to contract customers when a problem arises. You won’t need to wait too long for an air conditioner emergency repair. A reputable contractor will give you an in-depth analysis of their findings, and make suggestions for repairs or upgrades.