The summer heat is no joke. You want to be able to relax in your home without having to worry about the temperature outside. That’s why having a good air conditioner is essential. But with so many different types and brands on the market, how to choose an air conditioner suitable for your home?
If you find the right one, an air conditioner can significantly improve your quality of life. It can help you sleep better at night, keep your home cool and comfortable during the day, and even improve your overall health. But finding the best air conditioner for your needs requires research.
Here are four tips to help you make the best decision for your needs.
Identify The Size of the AC You Need
Many homeowners make the mistake of thinking that all air conditioners are the same size. But the truth is, there is a big difference between AC units’ different types and sizes. So, how do you know which one is right for your home? The answer lies in understanding how to calculate the AC unit size you need.
You need to consider some things when finding the perfect-sized air conditioner.
1. Start by measuring the square footage of your home. It will give you a good starting point for determining the size of the air conditioner you need.
2. Next, consider the climate in your area. If you live in a place with a lot of humidity, you’ll need a unit capable of handling that moisture level.
3. Another vital factor to consider is the number of windows in your home. The more windows you have, the more heat will be let in, and your AC unit will need to be bigger.
4. Finally, think about how many people live in your home. The more people there are, the more heat the system needs to generate, and your AC unit will need to be bigger.
What will happen if I purchase and install the incorrect size AC unit?
If you install an AC unit that is too small for your home, it will have to work overtime to cool your house down. It will not only cause your energy bills to skyrocket, but it will also shorten the lifespan of your AC unit. In extreme cases, an undersized AC unit can freeze up, leading to severe and expensive repairs.
Installing an AC unit that is too large for your home may seem like a good idea because it will cool your house down quickly. However, this isn’t necessarily true. An oversized AC system will cycle on and off more often than an appropriately sized unit, which can waste energy and lead to increased wear and tear. Additionally, an oversized AC unit will not remove humidity from the air as effectively as a properly sized unit, leaving your home feeling clammy and uncomfortable.
Look for the Type of AC You Want
Central Air Conditioners
Central air conditioners are perhaps the most common type of AC unit. They consist of an outdoor compressor and an indoor evaporator and use ducts to distribute cool air throughout your home. Central AC units are generally very effective and energy-efficient, but they can be expensive to install if your home doesn’t already have ductwork.
Window Air Conditioners
Window air conditioners are another popular option, especially for smaller homes or apartments. As their name suggests, window AC units are installed in a window and blow cool air into the room. Window AC units are less expensive than central AC units, and they’re fairly easy to install, but they can be unsightly and make it difficult to open or close the window where they’re installed.
Portable Air Conditioners
Portable air conditioners are a great option if you don’t want to install a permanent AC unit in your home. Portable AC units can be moved from room to room as needed, and they come with everything you need for installation, including a window kit. Portable AC units are less expensive than other AC units, but they’re not as energy-efficient and can be noisy.
Mini-Split Air Conditioners
Mini-split air conditioners are similar to central AC units in that they consist of an outdoor compressor and an indoor evaporator (or multiple evaporators). However, mini-split AC units don’t require ductwork, which makes them an excellent option for homes that don’t have existing ductwork in place. Mini-split AC units are more expensive than other AC units, but they’re very energy-efficient and relatively easy to install.
Choose an Energy Efficiency Rating
All Air conditioning units come with an energy efficiency rating (EER), measuring how much cooling they can provide for the amount of energy they use. The higher the EER, the more efficient the AC unit. It will help you save money on your energy bills and make your home more comfortable.
How to Measure Energy Efficiency?
The size of your AC unit is essential, but it’s not the only factor you should consider when choosing an air conditioner. You’ll also want to look for an AC unit with a high energy efficiency rating (EER). The EER is a measure of how much cooling an AC unit can provide for the amount of energy it uses. The higher the EER, the more efficient the AC unit.
An AC unit with a high EER is crucial because it will help you save money on your energy bills. In fact, for every 1-point increase in the EER, you can expect to save about 2-3% on your energy bills. For example, if you have a 10,000 BTU air conditioner with an EER of 9, you can save about $60 per year on your energy bills.
To find the EER of an AC unit, look for the yellow EnergyGuide label. The EER will be listed near the label’s top in a white box.
Look for A Contractor
When you’re ready to install your AC unit, hire a contractor with experience. A qualified contractor will know how to appropriately size and install your AC unit, and they’ll be able to answer any questions you have about the process. We advise knowing about the contractor’s installation services, service prices, payment alternatives, and warranties before you sign an installation contract.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when you’re looking for a contractor:
– Make sure the contractor is licensed and insured.
– Ask for references and check them.
– Get multiple estimates before you choose a contractor.
– Make sure the contractor explains the installation process to you in detail.
Conclusion
When choosing an air conditioner, consider your home’s size, climate, and budget. You’ll also want to decide whether you want a window unit, a portable unit, or a mini-split unit. Once you’ve narrowed down your options, consult with a professional to help you make the final decision.
