Purchasing an AC Unit For House That Is Energy Efficient
When purchasing an ac unit for your home, you want one that is energy efficient. The greater the SEER the better energy is saved. This will reduce energy costs and will also extend the life of your unit.
There are four main 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. It is important to be patient in selecting the right model. You need to make sure that your new air conditioner is appropriate for your home. An incorrectly sized unit will either work too hard to keep your home cool or will not be able to do the job effectively, which could cost you money. A professional HVAC contractor can help you determine the right size unit for your house.
There are a variety of factors that determine the size of your AC unit. Certain of these aspects are obvious, such as the square footage. There are other factors that aren’t as obvious, such as the number of technology or appliances that generate heat in your home. This is because these items produce a lot heat that your AC has to manage.
It is also important to consider the climate in your area and the kind of materials you used. Some of these materials absorb and reflect heat differently, which could affect the size of your air conditioning unit. You should also consider how well insulated your home is and the number and type of windows and doors. Some are designed to let lots of heat in, and could require you to install more of an AC unit.
It is only after taking into account all of these factors that you can make an accurate decision on the best AC unit for your house. A square footage chart can give you a general idea. However, a manual J load calculator that is performed by an expert is the most effective method of determining the size AC unit you require.
When you know the amount you’ll be able to select a model that is more suitable. You might need to increase the tonnage of your air conditioner if you’ve made changes to your home since you last replaced it.
Energy Efficiency
Don’t believe that more tonnage means more efficient when choosing an AC unit. A larger unit will chill a home faster, but it will cost you more energy costs and premature wear. A well-maintained AC unit that’s of the right size will effectively cool your home and last for a longer period of time.
Air conditioning units are rated by their BTUs, which is British Thermal Units. The higher the rating the more efficient it is. You’ll also notice a SEER rating, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, on the unit. A lower rating indicates a less efficient AC.
The size of your air conditioner is mostly determined by the square footage of your home. However, there are other factors that are important as well. For example, the number of windows and their position to the sun will affect the amount of heat transferred to your home. Your home’s level of insulation will also have an impact. Insulation is important because it prevents cold air from escaping at the same speed.
When choosing an AC unit, it’s important to consider your family’s lifestyle and habits. People who open their windows and doors open will require air conditioning more frequently than those who keep them closed. You may also consider tax credits for models that are energy efficient. These discounts can reduce the cost of purchasing a new air conditioner. In addition, a newer model is likely to be more energy efficient than an older one.
Noise
If your air conditioner is functioning well, it will make a light humming sound when it’s operating. If you hear other sounds this could be a sign that the unit isn’t functioning properly.
A sound that is loud when your air conditioner is running can be a result of many different problems, but it’s crucial to have it checked promptly to avoid further damage being caused to your unit. For example, the sound can be an indication that it’s time to replace your air filter and is a simple and quick job which doesn’t require the assistance of a professional.
If your air conditioner is making a loud rumbling sound when it’s on, it could be because of an obstruction in the fan. This can be caused by debris or dirt that’s stuck in the unit, a damaged blade, or loose components that could cause the fan to shake as it spins. Examine the inside of your unit to see whether you have any of these problems. They can cause a compressor to fail.
Another common AC problem is when it produces a whining sound when it’s running. It could be due to the fact that the ducts aren’t properly sealed. This allows cold air to escape and warm air to get in. This can also be caused by cracks or holes in the ducts, which need to be fixed as soon as possible.
A refrigerant leak is typically the cause of a loud noise coming from your air conditioner. The hissing sound happens when the refrigerant moves from the high pressure side of the system to the lower pressure side, via the metering device, which has a small opening. Even though the hissing sound is not a major problem however, it’s recommended to have an HVAC technician check it out just in the event of. It can be costly to correct this issue therefore don’t leave it unattended.
Maintenance
It is important to keep your air conditioner, regardless of whether it’s brand new or old. A certified professional will give your unit an general inspection, which can help you find minor issues before they grow into large ones. They will test the unit’s voltage, clean and inspect the ductwork, coils, and vents. They will also check the refrigerant levels and clean the drain pipe. They will also lubricate the blower motor as well as the thermostat and replace your filter, if required.
Uneven room temperature, inability to start the system or the loud and squeaky sound are all indications that it requires attention. It could be time to replace your system, especially if you’ve noticed an increase in your energy costs.
A well-maintained AC unit will last much longer than one that’s neglected and you’ll save lots of money on your energy bills over time. Maintaining your AC unit will ensure it lasts as long as is possible. This includes replacing filters on a regular basis, cleaning and wiping it down outside, and keeping the unit free of any debris.
In addition to regular maintenance, it’s recommended to trim the foliage around the unit. Also, keep the area clear of leaves, twigs, cobwebs, and other debris that could block the airflow. You can also hose down the coils and fins of the outdoor unit to keep it clean. Use a garden hose, not a pressure-washer that could damage the components of the unit.
Some ac experts offer maintenance agreements that include two-yearly inspections and discounted prices on parts and accessories. These are a great option if you do not have the time or expertise to maintain your equipment on your own, or you want peace of mind knowing that a technician is watching your system. Some contractors also offer priority service to contract customers when there is a problem. This means you won’t have to wait long for an emergency repair in the case of your air cooling. A good contractor will provide an in-depth report of their findings, and will make recommendations for upgrades or repairs.