An air conditioning unit is a significant decision for home comfort and utility costs. A suitable AC unit can transform a space into a refuge from sweltering heat, while the wrong selection can lead to frustration and high energy bills. If you've never done it before, this guide can help you learn how to choose the right air conditioning unit for your home.
Here are essential tips for selecting the AC unit that best fits your needs to guide you through this pivotal purchase.
Assess Your Cooling Needs and Space
It's essential to accurately assess your cooling needs before selecting an AC unit. To do this, you must understand the area's square footage and heat load that requires cooling. If you purchase an air conditioner that is too small for the room's size, it will need help to provide the desired level of air conditioning. On the other hand, if you purchase an air conditioner that is too large, it will quickly cool the room without removing humidity, and you'll feel cold and clammy.
Determining the Square Footage
Measure the length and width of each room you plan to air-condition and multiply the two dimensions to find the area. For oddly shaped rooms, break the space into rectangular or square sections, calculate the square footage for each, and then add them together.
Calculating Heat Load
Factors contributing to heat load include the size and number of windows, insulation values, and the amount of direct sunlight entering the space. You can use online heat load calculators to get a rough estimate.
We have a much more in-depth article about this process: How to Calculate Heat Load
Considering Additional Variables
Remember that cooling needs can vary within the same house due to the number of people in a room, heat-generating equipment, and the local climate.
Understand Energy Efficiency
When making decisions about your energy usage, it's important to prioritize energy efficiency. This is a smart choice from an environmental standpoint and can have a significant financial impact over time. Using energy-efficient products and implementing energy-saving habits can lower your electricity bills, reduce your carbon footprint, and contribute to a healthier planet.
Look for a High SEER Rating
The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) indicates an air conditioning unit's efficiency over an entire season. A higher rating means greater energy efficiency but may also result in higher upfront costs. It's important to balance the initial expenses with the long-term savings to ensure you make a cost-effective choice.
Consider Variable-Speed Compressors
Units with variable-speed compressors adjust more efficiently to your home or office's fluctuating cooling demands, using less energy when full blast isn't necessary.
Choose the Right Size
An oversized AC will cool the air quickly but might not effectively dehumidify the space, leading to a cold and clammy environment. Conversely, an undersized unit will work too hard and long to cool the space, wearing down more quickly and consuming excess energy.
Select the Right Type of Air Conditioner
There isn't a one-size-fits-all solution for air conditioners. Different types are suited to different applications and mounting requirements.
Central Air Systems for Whole-House Comfort:
Central air conditioning systems are an excellent choice for cooling an entire home efficiently. They work by circulating cool air through a network of ducts, offering even temperature distribution and flexibility in temperature control. Central air systems are also energy-efficient, with high SEER ratings that result in lower electricity bills and a smaller carbon footprint. They are relatively quiet and provide ultimate control and comfort, making them a smart investment in home comfort.
Window Units for Single Rooms:
You have a few options for cooling a small apartment or individual room. A window or through-the-wall unit can be more practical in installation and maintenance, as they fit into a specific opening in the wall or window. This allows for easy installation and a more permanent solution to your cooling needs. On the other hand, portable air conditioning units are easy to install and offer the flexibility to move them from room to room as needed. They typically come with a vent hose attached to a window or sliding door to vent the hot air outside. Portable units are ideal for those who need a temporary cooling solution or cannot install a more permanent one.
Ductless Mini-Split Systems for Flexibility:
Ductless mini-splits are a popular heating and cooling solution. They are outdoor units with a compressor and one or more indoor air handlers connected by small pipes or cables. The air handlers can be installed in different rooms for zoned comfort control. Ductless mini-splits offer zoned comfort without complex ductwork, making them versatile for new construction and retrofit projects.
Compare Noise Levels
The sound an air conditioner makes can be as important as the temperature, especially if you're sensitive to noise or if the unit will be placed in a bedroom or a workspace.
Look for Low Decibel Ratings:
The decibel rating measures the loudest unit in operation. Manufacturers typically provide these ratings, and lower numbers indicate quieter operation. It's worth noting that the decibel scale is logarithmic, which means that a unit at 70 decibels is twice as loud as a unit at 60 decibels. So, it's important to remember this when comparing different units and deciding which one to buy.
Consider the Location of Your Unit:
Where the AC is installed can affect the perceived noise level. For example, units installed on a roof might not cause as much disturbance as those installed next to a patio where people gather.
Research the Manufacturer's Reputation and Warranty
When purchasing a new AC unit, ensure you're dealing with a reputable seller, especially if buying online. Check their returns policy and customer reviews to gauge their reliability and product quality. Positive reviews indicate a reliable seller and a smooth experience. By doing your due diligence and finding a trusted seller, you can rest assured that you're getting a quality AC unit that will provide you with the cooling comfort you need.
Plumbersstock is a renowned name in the industry with years of experience, providing reliable, top-notch AC units. Before making your purchase, we recommend that you look at our vast collection of products and read customer reviews to understand our products better.
Considering these tips, you can confidently choose an air conditioning unit to keep your home or office cool, your energy bills down, and your comfort levels just right. Remember, an informed purchase is the coolest choice you can make!
PlumbersStock Has You Covered for HVAC
Remember to choose PlumbersStock for all your HVAC needs. We are experts at keeping our customers cool in the summer and warm in the winter. When your furnace breaks, we'll have the right parts to get it back up and running.
