The 3 Most Important Traits in a New Air Conditioner
The decision to install a new air conditioning system entails a great deal of preparation and forethought. Now is the best time of the year to make proper plans. The weather is not yet warm enough to demand regular use of an air conditioner, giving homeowners time to discuss their options with a trained HVAC technician and plan for the installation with maximum flexibility in mind. That way, the new system can be up and running before the first heat wave hits, ensuring that the homeowner gets the maximum benefit from the replacement all summer long.
When considering which new system to install, three basic traits need to be settled upon. They will allow the new system to function effectively and provide the maximum benefit for the home in question.
1. Power Levels
Air conditioner power levels need to match the space they are intended to cool. Most people understand that an underpowered air conditioner won’t work especially well: running constantly and never truly making the area in question comfortable. What few people understand is that overpowered air conditioners are almost as bad. They cool the house too quickly, shutting down after only a few minutes, only to turn on again quickly a few minutes later. The process is called short-cycling, and it places tremendous strain on the unit since air conditioners consume far more power turning on and off than they do simply running.
In order to properly balance power levels, the technician must perform a thorough examination of the whole, gauging not only square footage, but factors like insulation in the walls and even windows with western views. This allows the technician to recommend a power level for the new system that is neither underpowered nor overpowered, but just right for the space.
2. Efficiency
Once the proper power levels have been determined, the next step is to find the system’s efficiency. (It’s important to define power levels first, since a more efficient air conditioner won’t be any benefit if it’s underpowered.) Air conditioners measure efficiency with a SEER rating, which stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. The higher the rating, the more effectively the air conditioner does its job, and the less it costs to run from month to month.
3. Additional Upgrades
In many cases, it pays to consider additional upgrades on top of the basic air conditioner itself. If there’s extra room in the budget, a few bells and whistles can make a reliable system even better. For instance, a new “smart” thermostat can analyze cooling patterns and make automatic adjustments to save money. Or a zone control system allows homeowners to adjust the temperature in different parts of the home individually, or turn off the A/C in sections that aren’t being used. Such additions can save a great deal of money, as well as reduce wear and tear and allow the system to be used with must more flexibility.
For high-quality air conditioning replacement service in Westchester County, NY, call upon Yost & Campbell Heating, Cooling & Generators today!