5 Things to Consider When Installing a New AC

Every home needs an air conditioner to reduce the extremely high temperatures during the summer. These units also regulate indoor humidity and reduce air pollutants from the air circulating in your home, improving air quality. Several factors influence the reliability and efficiency of the AC, including the quality of installation. To enjoy maximum indoor comfort, consider these factors during the installation of your new air conditioner.

Choose the Right AC Size

Air conditioners are available in different sizes based on their cooling capacity, measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs). This is the amount of energy the unit requires to cool the indoor space. If you have a large home, then you need a larger system. An oversized air conditioner blows cool air rapidly to meet the cooling load and turns off. This results in inefficient cooling and the system has to start a new cycle after a short time. Short cycling leads to energy loss because the air conditioner consumes more power to start a cycle. Undersized systems cannot cool the entire house and you will often find some rooms being hotter or colder than others. The unit runs longer cycles as it tries to provide consistent temperatures throughout the house which leads to energy loss.

An HVAC technician can help you choose the right AC size for your home. They will calculate your cooling load based on your house’s square footage, the weatherization level and the climate in your area.

Consider the Costs

The cost of an appliance is among the factors to prioritize when choosing to install a new system. It is common for property owners to purchase the least expensive system to save costs. Even though you should buy a system that’s within your budget, it’s crucial to choose a model that’s energy efficient as it may result in long-term cost savings. You should also budget for the installation costs and the price of accessories to prevent financial strain before the completion of the process.

Choose a Professional for Installation

Air conditioners are complex systems that should be installed by a professional technician. There are various contractors and it can take time to choose the right one. Consulting friends and relatives who have worked with a technician can help you get an expert to do the job right. Most air conditioner contractors have websites where previous clients leave reviews and ratings. Online research can give you an insight into the quality of work they provide. Also, you can request to see their licenses as proof of qualification and ask about their experience in AC installation.

Qualified technicians have the right tools and skills for quick and safe installation. They also avoid errors that may damage the system and render the warranty void. Air conditioners have a manufacturer warranty that covers the cost of repair and replacement of system components in case they fail due to workmanship errors. For the warranty to remain valid, the manufacturers demand that you hire a professional for all servicing.

Prioritize Energy Efficiency

Look for an AC unit with a high-efficiency rating indicated as SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) or EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio). The higher the rating, the less energy the unit will use to produce the same cooling output. This upfront investment will pay off through lower monthly utility bills. You may also choose a system with energy-saving settings. These allow the unit to turn off the compressor and fan when the house is cooled to the desired temperature for energy conservation. Some models have an ENERGY STAR certification. This is attained after the system undergoes rigorous tests and meets or exceeds efficiency standards.

Plan the Perfect Installation Location

Ensure there is adequate storage space for the installation of the outdoor and indoor units. Air conditioners are set up on flat surfaces in an area where nothing blocks airflow. You can install them on strong walls, terraces or balconies that can withstand the vibrations made during operation.

For optimal operation, the units should be closer together and no more than 15 meters apart. The indoor unit should be about 7 feet from the ground for optimal performance. This is ideal for the even spreading of air around the room and prevents the system from only cooling the hot air at the top.

When you select the right system and have it professionally installed, you can enjoy comfort for years while keeping energy costs at manageable levels. You may also sign a contract with the technician for maintenance services, as air conditioners require annual tune-ups to remain at optimal performance.