If you’re facing an A/C replacement, learning as much as possible about choosing the equipment will help you make an informed decision that benefits your pocketbook and comfort for years to come. Here are some important steps in the process of choosing a new cooling system for your home:
Sizing
Going by the size of your existing equipment can be misleading, especially if you have improved the energy efficiency of your home. HVAC contractors use a protocol called Manual J that calculates the cooling load of your home, in other words how much cooling is needed to reach a comfortable temperature. Mainly dictated by the size of your home, the cooling load is also affected by a variety of other factors including insulation levels, window quality, air infiltration rates, preferred temperatures and outdoor landscaping.
When you’re sizing an A/C replacement, it’s important to avoid selecting an oversized unit, which cuts down on energy efficiency and increases the wear and tear on your equipment. Air conditioners that are too large turn on and off frequently, and the electrical load at start-up is highest. These short cycles provide uneven cooling, and don’t remove as much humidity, leaving you less comfortable. On the other hand, if you purchase an A/C that’s too small, it will struggle to keep up on the hottest days.
Energy efficiency
The minimum energy efficiency for a central air conditioner stands at 13 SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio). If you’re replacing a system that’s 10 years or older, you can save 30 percent on your energy bills just by choosing a model with today’s minimum SEER rating. You can save even more by purchasing a high-efficiency A/C replacement, which starts at SEER 16.
When you’re making an A/C replacement, choosing a system that has features tailored for our humid summers will increase your comfort and lower your energy bills. These features include:
- Variable-speed blower. Equipped with electronically commutated motors (ECMs), variable speed blowers use far less electricity than a single-speed motor. They run more slowly and continuously, offering better humidity control and air filtration.
- Dual-speed compressor. This type runs at a lower speed when temperatures are moderate, saving energy throughout the cooling season.
- Filter check light. This indicator light alerts you when it’s time to change the air filter, critical for the efficiency and durability of your system.
If you’d like more information about an A/C replacement, please contact us at Ace Hardware Home Services, Inc. We’ve provided superior HVAC services to the Dayton area since 1978.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Dayton, Ohio about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about A/C replacements and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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