Purchasing an AC Unit For House That Is Energy Efficient
You want an energy-efficient ac unit when you buy one for your home. The higher the SEER rating the more energy it will save. This will save you money in energy costs as well as extend the lifespan of your unit.
The four main types of air conditioners are: window units central AC heat pumps and ductless systems.
Size
The size of your AC unit can have a big impact on how much energy you consume. Selecting the right unit isn’t something to rush through. You need to ensure your new air conditioner is the right size for your home. If it’s not the right size could be too large to cool your home or will not work at all. This can cost you money. A professional HVAC contractor can assist you in determining the right size unit for your home.
There are many variables that determine the size of your AC unit. Some of these are obvious, such as the area. Other factors are not as evident, like the amount of technology that generates heat or appliances in your home. These items produce a lot heat, which your air conditioner must handle.
You should also take into consideration the climate of your area and what type of materials you used. Certain materials absorb and reflect heat differently, which could impact the size of your air conditioning unit. Also, you should consider how well your home is insulated, as well as the number of windows and doors you have. Some of these are designed to let lots of heat into the house and will require an even larger AC unit.
It is only after taking into account all of these factors that you can make a precise decision on the best AC unit for your home. You can use a square footage chart to get a rough idea but the best way to find out what size of AC you need is to have a Manual J load calculation done by a professional.
When you know the amount, you can choose a model that is more suitable. You may need to increase the tonnage of your air cooling system if you’ve made any changes to your home since you last replaced it.
Energy Efficiency
Don’t assume more tonnage means more efficient when choosing 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 properly maintained AC unit of the right size will efficiently cool your home and last longer.
British Thermal Units (BTUs) are used to rate air conditioning units. The higher the rating the more efficient it is. On the unit, you’ll find an SEER rating or a Seasonal Efficiency Ratio. A lower SEER rating means an inefficient AC.
The size of your AC unit is largely determined by the area of your home. However there are other aspects which play a part as well. The number of windows in your home and their orientation towards the sun can impact the amount of heat transferred to your home. The insulation levels within your home also affect the transfer of heat. Insulation is particularly important because it can stop cold air from exiting your home as quickly.
It’s also important to consider your family’s habits and lifestyle when deciding on an AC unit. People who open their doors and windows wide open will require AC more often than those who keep them closed. It’s also recommended to research tax credits that might be available for energy-efficient models. These discounts can lower the cost of a brand new air conditioner. A newer unit will also be more energy-efficient than a unit that is older.
Noise
If your air conditioner is operating well, it will only produce a buzzing sound when running. If you hear other sounds, it could be a sign that the unit isn’t functioning properly.
A buzzing sound when your air conditioner is on can be caused by a variety of problems, but it’s crucial to check it out in the earliest time possible to prevent further damage from happening to your unit. The sound could be a sign it’s time to change your air filter. This is a simple and quick task that doesn’t require the help of an expert.
It’s possible that the fan is blocked when your air conditioner emits a the sound of a rattle when it’s on. It could be due dirt or debris stuck in the unit. A damaged blade or loose components can also cause the fan’s rotor to rumble. It’s crucial to examine the inside of your unit for these kinds of issues, as they could result in a damaged compressor.
Another common AC problem is when it starts producing a whining sound when it’s running. It could be that the ducts aren’t properly sealed. This allows cold air to escape and warm air to be able to. This can also be caused by holes or cracks in the ducts, which need to be repaired as soon as possible.
If you hear a hissing sound emanating from your air conditioner, it’s 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 low pressure side, through an instrument for metering that has a small orifice. While the hissing sound isn’t an issue however, it is advisable to have it checked by an HVAC technician just in case. This problem can be expensive to repair, so it’s best not to ignore it.
Maintenance
It’s important to maintain your air conditioner, regardless of whether it’s new or old. A trained professional will give your unit an general inspection, which will help you identify small problems before they become larger ones. They will test your unit’s voltage, clean and examine the coils, ductwork, and vents. They will also check the refrigerant levels and clean the drain pipe. They will also grease your thermostat, blower motor and replace the filter if necessary.
Uneven room temperatures, an inability to start or a loud and squeaky noise are all signs that the system is in need of attention. It might be time to consider a replacement, especially if your energy bills have been going up.
A well-maintained AC will last longer and save you money over the course of time. Maintaining your unit will ensure that it lasts as long as is possible. This means replacing filters frequently, cleaning and wiping it down outside, and keeping the unit free of debris.
It’s important to keep the surrounding area free of any debris such as leaves, twigs and cobwebs that can hinder airflow. You can also hose down the fins and coils of the outdoor unit to keep it clean. Be sure to use a normal garden hose and not a pressure washer, which could damage the unit’s components.
Some AC specialists provide maintenance contracts that include two-yearly inspections and lower prices for parts and accessories. These can be an excellent option when you don’t have the time to maintain your own equipment or if you’d like to have the peace of mind of knowing that a qualified technician is observing your system. In addition, many contractors give contract customers priority service whenever a problem occurs. You won’t have to wait for too long for an air conditioner emergency repair. A good contractor will also provide you with a thorough report of their findings, and offer recommendations for upgrades or repairs.
