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 more efficient the SEER, the more energy is saved. This will save you money on energy costs as well as extend the life span of your unit.
The four major types of air conditioners include: window units central AC heat pumps and ductless systems.
Size
The size of an AC unit can make a huge difference in how much you spend on energy costs. It’s important to be patient when choosing the right unit. You must be sure that the new air conditioner is appropriate for your home. A unit that isn’t the right size will either be too large to cool your home or won’t work in any way. This will cost you money. A professional HVAC contractor can help you determine the proper size unit for your house.
There are many factors that determine the size of your AC unit. Some of them are obvious, like the square footage. Other factors are not as evident, like the amount of heat-generating technology or appliances in your home. These devices generate a lot of heat that your AC must handle.
It’s also important to consider the climate of your area and the type of building materials you have employed. Some materials absorb and reflect heat in different ways, which can affect the size of your AC unit. It is also important to consider how well insulated your home is, as well as the number and type of windows and doors. Certain of them are designed for letting plenty of heat through and might require that you use a bigger AC unit.
It is only after taking into account all of these elements that you can make a precise 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 best way to determine what size AC unit you need.
Once you know the tonnage of your AC figured out, you can shop for a specific model. You may need to increase the capacity of your air conditioner if you’ve made changes to your house since the last time you 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 at the cost of increased energy bills and wear and tear. A well-maintained AC unit of the right size will efficiently cool your home and last longer.
Air conditioning units are rated according to their BTUs, which is British Thermal Units. The higher the rating the more efficient the unit is. On the unit, you’ll find the SEER rating, also known as the Seasonal Efficiency Ratio. A lower score indicates an inefficient AC.
The square footage of your home is one of the primary factors that determine the size of your AC. There are also other factors to consider. The number of windows in your home and their orientation towards the sun can impact the amount of heat transferred to your home. The level of insulation in your home can also affect heat transfer. Insulation is crucial because it will prevent cold air from leaving your home as quickly.
It’s also important to consider the lifestyle and habits of your family when selecting an AC unit. For instance, those who frequently open windows and doors will need to use their AC more frequently than a household that keeps them closed. It’s also an excellent idea to look into tax credits that are sometimes available for energy-efficient models. These discounts can reduce the price of a new air conditioner. Furthermore, a modern unit is likely to be more efficient in energy use than an older one.
Noise
If your air conditioner functions properly, it will make a light humming sound when it is running. If you hear other sounds this could be a sign that your unit is not functioning properly.
A buzzing sound when your air conditioner is on can be caused by various issues, but it’s essential to check it out in the earliest time possible to avoid further damage being caused to the unit. For instance the sound could be an indication that it’s time to change your air filter and is a simple and quick job which doesn’t require the assistance of a professional.
It’s possible that the fan is obstructed if your air conditioner makes a rattling noise when it’s running. This can be caused by debris or dirt that’s stuck within the unit or by a damaged blade or loose components that could cause the fan to rumble as it rotates. It is important to inspect the inside of your unit for these types of issues, since they can lead to a broken compressor.
Another common AC issue is when it begins to produce whining noise when running. It could be because the ducts aren’t properly sealed. This allows cold air to escape while allowing warm air to enter. This can also be caused by holes or cracks in the ducts that need to be repaired as soon as is possible.
A refrigerant leak is usually the reason for a hissing noise that is heard from your air conditioner. The hissing sound occurs when refrigerant is transferred from the high-pressure side of the system to the low-pressure side via a metering device with a small orifice. Although the hissing sound isn’t a major issue it is recommended to have an HVAC technician examine it just in case. It’s expensive to correct this issue therefore don’t leave it unattended.
Maintenance
It is important to keep your air conditioner, regardless of whether it’s new or old. A trained professional will conduct an all-encompassing inspection. This can help you find small issues before they turn 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 lubricate your blower motor, thermostat and replace the filter if necessary.
Uneven room temperature, inability to start the system, or making noisy and squeaky sounds are all signs that it requires attention. It’s probably the time to upgrade your system, particularly when you’ve noticed a rise in your energy bills.
A well-maintained AC will last longer and help you save money over the years. Maintaining your unit will ensure it lasts 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 dirt.
In addition to regular maintenance, it’s recommended to trim the foliage around the unit. Also, keep the area free of leaves, twigs cobwebs and other debris that can block the airflow. You can also run hoses over the fins and coils to keep the unit free of dirt. Use a garden hose, not a pressure washer that could damage the components of the unit.
Certain AC specialists now offer maintenance contracts that provide customers with two-yearly maintenance inspections as well as reduced costs on parts and accessories. These are an excellent option when you don’t have the time or the knowledge to maintain your equipment yourself, or you want peace of peace of mind knowing that a technician is watching your system. Some contractors also offer priority service to customers who contract with them whenever a problem arises. You won’t have to wait too long for an air conditioner emergency repair. A reputable contractor will provide you with a thorough report of their findings, and offer suggestions for upgrades or repairs.