Most homeowners understand the importance of air conditioning for their family's comfort, but this system is also necessary for circulating air and maintaining healthy humidity levels. Because of this importance, replacing your air conditioning units may be necessary at some point while living in your home. A new system is a large investment, so proper understanding is imperative when you begin the process of choosing new AC units. Here are a few things you need to know when it is time to invest in a new air conditioning system.
Nothing Lasts Forever
No matter what brand or how much you spent on your current system, it is not designed to last forever.
Over time, the constant use of your air conditioning will place stress on the unit's motor, compressor, and ductwork. This stress not only affects the actual system's operation, but it can also affect the efficiency of your cooling. If you are noticing an increase in your cooling costs or a decreased flow of air moving through your vents, your system is in distress.
On average, central air conditioning systems have a lifespan of 15 to 20 years. If your system is struggling to cool or it is approaching this estimated lifespan, it is most likely time for a replacement.
Bigger Is Not Always Better
AC units are sized according to how much heat they can remove from the air, so you may believe that a larger system with more tonnage will be most effective for cooling your home. However, that is not necessarily.
Many experts believe 1 ton of air conditioning is required for cooling each 600 square foot of your home. Therefore, if you live in a home with 1800 square feet, a 3-ton system is ideal. Many homeowners will have a system with 4 or more tons installed in their home because they falsely believe bigger will be better.
AC units are designed to remove heat AND humidity during the conditioning process. Units that are too large for the home may cool your home faster, but they will stop the conditioning process once the desired temperatures are reached. Without allowing the system to run longer, the system will not be able to remove the humidity from the air. This is known as short-cycling and it can actually decrease the efficiency of your air conditioning system.
Before deciding on a specific system, consult an HVAC contractor who can perform a load calculation on your home. This is the best solution for determining the right size unit for your home and climate.
A new AC system is a large investment that should be taken seriously. With this guide, you will learn a few helpful tips to follow when selecting your new air conditioning system. Contact a service, like AC 180 Air Conditioning & Heating, for more help.
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