Whether you’re replacing an old system or installing air conditioning for the first time, there are plenty of considerations to make. While many homeowners do their research before making a decision, it’s best to consult with an experienced HVAC technician to ensure your new system is properly installed and working efficiently. They’ll help you find the right size unit to keep your home comfortable without using too much energy, reducing utility bills and helping you save money in the long run.

To determine what type of air conditioner you’ll need, it’s important to know the square footage of your home and how many people will be living there. Once you have this information, it’s easy to figure out what size air conditioner is needed. Just multiply the total square footage by 20 to get a rough estimate of how many BTUs you’ll need.

Other factors, like the type of room and what typically takes place there, can also influence the AC sizing needs. For example, rooms with high ceilings will require more power than those with lower ones to maintain a comfortable temperature. Similarly, rooms with heat-generating appliances, such as kitchens and laundry rooms, will need more air conditioner capacity than those with no such appliance.

Aside from determining the proper size of an air conditioner, it’s essential to look at energy efficiency and cooling capacity ratings when making your final decision. A SEER rating, which stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, is the standard metric used to gauge an air conditioning’s energy efficiency. This rating is more comprehensive than EER because it measures a unit’s performance over an entire season, taking hot and cold days into account.

Another thing to consider is a new AC’s ENERGY STAR rating, which indicates its energy efficiency in comparison to other units of the same size. The higher the ENERGY STAR rating, the more efficient the new AC unit is.

Proper installation Efficiency Heating & Cooling AC Installation is just as important to an air conditioner’s efficiency as its sizing and energy efficiency ratings. A poorly-installed system can reduce its rated efficiency by up to 30% – costing you more on your utility bills and potentially shortening the equipment’s life.

Lastly, it’s always a good idea to have ductwork professionally tested and sealed before installing an AC system. Up to 20% of conditioned air can be lost due to air leakage and disconnected ducts, so having these areas sealed will not only help improve energy efficiency but also increase comfort and reduce energy costs.