A couple of months ago, the HVAC unit in my home started malfunctioning. The temperature inside my home soared to over eighty degrees Fahrenheit, even though my air conditioning system ran nonstop. After inspecting my air conditioning unit, my knowledgeable HVAC contractor recommended I purchase a new system. He discussed the pros and cons of installing different sizes of HVAC units with me. After considering my HVAC contractor’s advice, I decided to purchase a three and a half ton HVAC unit. Shortly after my HVAC contractor installed my new air conditioning unit, my house started feeling more comfortable. On this blog, I hope you will discover how an HVAC contractor can help you select the right air conditioning unit for your home. Enjoy!
Summer’s sweltering heat can make your home feel like an oven, and a malfunctioning air conditioner (AC) only adds to the discomfort. If you’ve been struggling with an inefficient or broken AC unit, it might be time to consider a replacement.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your AC
How do you know when it’s time to replace your AC? While regular maintenance can prolong the life of your unit, there are clear indicators that signal it’s time for a new one. If your AC is older, frequently needs repairs, or fails to keep your home at a consistent temperature, these are red flags that shouldn’t be ignored. Additionally, if you notice rising energy bills without increased usage, this could mean that your unit is working harder than necessary due to inefficiency.
Assessing Your Cooling Needs
Before rushing out to buy a new AC unit, take some time to assess your cooling needs. Factors such as the size of your home, the number of rooms that need to be cooled, and the insulation quality play crucial roles in determining the type and capacity of the AC unit required. A professional HVAC technician can conduct a load calculation for precise measurement, ensuring that you choose an appropriately sized system that won’t overwork or underperform.
Choosing the Right Type of AC Unit
There are various types of air conditioning systems available on the market today; each comes with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Central air conditioning systems are popular in larger homes because they cool multiple rooms efficiently through ductwork. Ductless mini-split systems offer flexibility by allowing individual room control and are ideal for homes without existing ductwork. Window units and portable air conditioners provide localized cooling solutions but might not be suitable for large spaces or whole-house cooling needs.
Energy Efficiency Matters
When selecting a new AC unit, energy efficiency should be a top priority not only for environmental reasons but also for cost savings on utility bills over time. Look for units with high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) ratings. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the system is at converting energy into cooling power while using less electricity overall. ENERGY STAR-certified products also guarantee excellent performance standards set by regulatory bodies.
Professional Installation vs. DIY Approach
Installing an AC unit might seem like a simple task, but it’s best to leave it to the professionals. Hiring a licensed HVAC technician for installation ensures that all safety protocols are followed and guarantees proper installation for optimal performance. Attempting a DIY approach could result in damage to your new unit or even injury to yourself. Plus, most manufacturers require professional installation for warranty coverage.
Learn more from a company near you, like Radco Air Conditioning Heating & Appliance Service.
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