Purchasing an AC Unit For House That Is Energy Efficient
You’ll want an energy-efficient AC unit when you purchase one for your home. The greater the SEER rating, the more energy it will save. This will save you money in energy costs and lengthen the life of your unit.
There are four major types of air conditioning systems: window units (central AC), heat pumps, ductless systems and heat.
Size
The size of an AC unit can make a significant difference in the amount you pay for energy. It is important to take your time when choosing the right unit. You must ensure that the new air conditioner is a good fit for your home. A unit that isn’t properly sized will either be too heavy to keep your home cool or will not be able to do the job at all, which will cost you money. A qualified HVAC contractor can assist you in determining the right size unit for your house.
There are several different factors that affect the right size of an AC unit for your home. Certain of these aspects are obvious, like the square footage. Certain factors aren’t so obvious, such as the number of heating appliances or technologies in your home. These devices generate a lot of heat, which your air conditioner has to deal with.
You should also consider the climate of your area and what type of materials you used. Some materials reflect heat and absorb it in various ways, which may impact the size of your air conditioner. It is also important to think about how well your home is insulated and the number of windows and doors you have. Some are designed to let a lot heat in and might require you to use an even larger AC unit.
Taking all of these factors into consideration is the only method to make an accurate choice about the right AC unit for your home. A square footage chart will give you a general idea. However, a manual J load calculator performed by an expert is the best method to determine the size of AC unit you need.
Once you know the tonnage of your AC system figured out and you are able to shop for a model that is more specific. It is possible 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 think that more tonnage is more efficient when choosing an AC unit. A bigger unit will cool your home faster, but it will cost you more energy costs and premature wear. A properly maintained AC unit of the proper size can cool your home efficiently and last longer.
Air conditioning units are rated according to their BTUs, or British Thermal 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 score means less efficient AC.
The size of your air conditioner is largely determined by the size of your home. There are other aspects to consider. For example, the number of windows and their position to the sun will affect how much heat is transferred to your home. Your home’s level of insulation will also affect the quality of your home. Insulation is important because it stops cold air from escaping as swiftly.
It’s also important to take into consideration the lifestyle and habits of your family when deciding on an AC unit. For instance, those who frequently open windows and doors will need to use their AC more frequently than households that keep the doors and windows closed. 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 purchasing a new air conditioner. A newer unit will also be more energy efficient than an older model.
Noise
If your air conditioner functions properly, it will produce a buzzing sound when operating. If you hear any other sounds, it could be a sign that the unit isn’t functioning properly.
The buzzing noise that occurs when your air conditioner is running could be the result of various issues. It is crucial to get it checked as soon as you can in order to avoid any further damage to your unit. The sound could indicate that it’s time to replace your air filter. This is a simple and quick task that doesn’t require the assistance of a professional.
If your air conditioner is making a loud rumbling sound when it’s turned on, it could be due to an obstruction in the fan. This can be due to dirt or debris stuck inside the unit. A damaged blade or loose parts can also cause the fan’s rotation to rattle. It’s important to check the inside of your unit for these kinds of issues, since they could cause a compressor to fail.
A whining sound is another typical AC problem. It could be due to the fact that the ducts are not properly sealed. This allows cold air to escape and warm air to get in. This could be due to cracks and holes in ducts that need to be fixed immediately.
A refrigerant leak is usually the reason for a hissing sound coming from your air conditioner. The hissing sound is caused by the refrigerant flows from the high pressure side of the system to the lower pressure side, using an instrument for metering that has a small opening. Although the sound of hissing is not a big deal, it’s always good to have it looked at by an HVAC technician just in case. It’s expensive to fix this issue, so don’t ignore it.
Maintenance
It is essential to maintain your air conditioner, no matter if it is new or old. A trained professional can give the unit a thorough inspection. This will allow you to spot small issues before they turn into bigger ones. They will test your unit’s voltage, clean and inspect the ductwork, coils, and vents. They will also assess the refrigerant level, and clean the drain pipe. They will also grease the blower motor and thermostat and replace your filter if needed.
Uneven room temperatures and inability to get started or a loud and squeaky noise are all signs that the system is in need of attention. It’s probably time to replace your system, particularly when you’ve noticed a rise in your energy bills.
A well-maintained AC will last longer and will save you money over time. Maintaining your unit will ensure it lasts for as long as is possible. This includes replacing filters regularly, cleaning and wiping it down outside and making sure that the unit is free of any debris.
In addition to regular maintenance, it’s advisable to trim back any foliage around the unit. You should also keep the area clear of twigs, leaves, cobwebs, and other debris that can 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 which could cause damage to the components of the unit.
Some ac specialists provide 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 the knowledge to maintain your equipment, or you want peace of mind knowing that a technician is in charge of your system. A lot of contractors offer priority service to customers who contract with them whenever a problem arises. This means that you won’t be waiting long for an emergency repair call in the case of your air conditioning. A reputable contractor will provide you with a detailed report of their findings and provide recommendations for repairs or upgrades.