Purchasing an AC Unit For House That Is Energy Efficient
When purchasing an ac unit for your house you should choose one that is energy efficient. The greater the SEER rating, the more energy it will save. This will save you money in energy costs and lengthen the lifespan of your unit.
There are four main types of air conditioning: window units (central AC), heat pumps and ductless systems.
Size
The size of the size of your AC unit will have a significant impact on the amount of energy you use. The selection of the right model isn’t something to be rushed through. You must make sure that the new AC is the right size for your home. A unit that is not the right size will either be too big to cool your home or won’t work in any way. This could cost you money. A professional HVAC contractor can help you determine the right size unit for your home.
There are many factors that determine the size of your AC unit. Some of these are obvious, such as the square footage. Some factors are less evident, such as the amount of technology or appliances that generate heat in your home. This is because these devices produce a lot of heat that your AC must handle.
It is also important to take into consideration the climate of your area and the type of building materials you’ve employed. Some materials reflect and absorb heat in various ways, which may impact the size of your air conditioner. It is also important to consider the degree of insulation your home is as well as the quantity and types of doors and windows. Certain of them are designed to let lots of heat in, and could require you to install a larger AC unit.
It is only by taking into consideration all of these aspects that you can make a precise decision on the best AC unit for your house. A square footage chart will give you an idea. However, a Manual J load calculator conducted by a professional is the best method to determine the size of AC unit you need.
Once you have figured out the tonnage you have, you can select the model that is suitable. However, it is important to remember that if you’ve made changes to your home since the last time you replaced your air conditioner, it’s possible you’ll require more capacity for the new space.
Energy Efficiency
Don’t think that more tonnage is more efficient when choosing an AC unit. A larger unit can cool a house faster but it will cost you more energy costs and wear and tear. A well-maintained AC unit of the right size will cool your home efficiently and last longer.
British Thermal Units (BTUs) are used to rate air conditioning 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 score means less efficient AC.
The area of your home is one of the most important factors that determine the size of your air conditioner. However there are other elements which play a part too. For instance, the amount of windows and their position towards the sun will influence how much heat is transferred into your home. The insulation level of your home can also impact the energy efficiency of your home. Insulation is crucial since it stops cold air from leaving as quickly.
It’s also important to consider the lifestyle and habits of your family when deciding on an AC unit. For example, people who often open their windows and doors will need to use their AC more frequently than a household that keeps them shut. It’s also a good idea to explore tax credits that might be available for models that are energy efficient. These discounts can reduce the price of a new air conditioner. A newer model will be more energy-efficient than an older unit.
Noise
If your air conditioner is operating well, it will only make a slight humming sound when it is operating. Any other sounds could signal issues with your unit that require to be addressed right away like an eerie sound or an erupting sound after the system has shut off.
A sound that is loud when your air conditioner is on could be the result of various problems, but it’s crucial to have it checked as soon as possible to prevent further damage from occurring to your unit. The sound could be an indication that 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 obstructed if your air conditioner makes a rattling noise when it’s turned on. It could be due to debris or dirt getting stuck in the unit. A damaged blade or loose parts can also cause the fan’s rotation to rumble. Examine the inside of your unit to see if there are any of these issues. They could lead to a faulty compressor.
A whining sound is another typical AC problem. 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 be caused by cracks and holes in the ducts that need to be repaired immediately.
If you hear a hissing sound emanating from your air conditioner, it’s due to a refrigerant leak. The hissing sound occurs when the refrigerant moves from the high pressure side of the system to the low pressure side, via the metering device, which has a tiny orifice. Although the hissing sound is not a major problem however, it’s a good idea to have an HVAC technician check it out just in case. The issue could be costly to repair, so it’s best not to ignore it.
Maintenance
Whether you have a new or old air conditioner, it’s essential to maintain it. A qualified professional will give the unit an all-encompassing inspection. This can help you spot minor issues before they grow into large ones. They will test the voltage of your unit, inspect and clean the ductwork, coils and vents, test for proper refrigerant levels and clear the drain line. They will also lubricate the blower motor as well as the thermostat and replace your filter if necessary.
Uneven room temperatures and inability to get started or hear a loud and squeaky noise are all indications that the system is in need of attention. It might be time to consider replacing the system, particularly in the event that your energy costs have been rising.
A well-maintained AC will last longer and will save you money over the years. Maintaining your unit will ensure that it lasts for as long as is possible. This means replacing filters frequently, cleaning and wiping it down outside and keeping it free of any debris.
In addition to regular maintenance, it’s advisable to trim any vegetation around the unit. Also, keep the area clear of leaves, twigs cobwebs and other debris that could impede the airflow. You can also hose the coils and fins 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 buy customers regular maintenance checks twice a year and lower rates on parts and accessories. They are a great choice for those who do not have time to maintain your own equipment or if you’d like the peace of mind of knowing that a qualified technician is monitoring your system. In addition, many contractors provide priority service to contract customers whenever a problem occurs. It isn’t necessary to wait long for an air conditioner emergency repair. A reputable contractor will give you a comprehensive report of their findings and provide recommendations for repairs or upgrades.
