Top Tips for Choosing the Right Air Conditioning System

If you’re looking to purchase a new air conditioning system, you want to make sure that it’s the right one for your home. There are lots of factors to consider when choosing an AC unit, so it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this guide with our top five tips on how to select the perfect air conditioning system for your needs. 

We’ll cover everything from understanding efficiency ratings and sizing requirements to considering installation options and warranties. Read on to learn how you can pick the best air conditioning system for your home.

Whether you’re replacing an existing AC unit or buying one for a new home, these tips will help ensure that you get the perfect air conditioner for your space and budget. By following Big Easy Air Conditioning’s advice, you can rest assured that your AC will provide reliable cooling season after season while also saving energy – and money – in the long run. So let’s dive in and take a look at what makes up an ideal air conditioning system!

Room Size and Layout Considerations

When selecting an air conditioning system, it’s important to consider the size and layout of the room you’re looking to cool. Choosing a unit too large for your space means you’ll be wasting energy and money on cooling power that isn’t needed. On the other hand, selecting a unit too small won’t provide enough cooling power to keep your room comfortable.

To determine which size is right for your space, measure the length and width of the room in feet. Multiply these two numbers together to calculate its square footage. This will give you a good indication of how much cooling capacity you’ll need in BTUs (British Thermal Units). The higher the BTU number, the more powerful the air conditioner is for larger rooms.

The layout of your space is also important to consider when selecting an air conditioner. If there are obstructions like furniture or walls that may block airflow, it can reduce efficiency and lead to uneven cooling in certain areas of the room. Make sure there is plenty of open space around your unit so that it can run efficiently without obstruction.

Before investing in an air conditioner, make sure you understand both your room size and layout so that you can choose an appropriately sized system that will provide enough cooling without wasting energy or money.

Energy Efficiency Ratings

Once you’ve determined the size and layout of your space, it’s time to focus on energy efficiency. Air conditioners have ratings that measure their energy use, or how much electricity they consume when running. The higher the rating, the more energy-efficient the unit is. This means it will require less energy to cool your room and can save you money in the long run. Look for air conditioning systems with an Energy Star certification, which indicates that it meets strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) is another rating to consider when shopping for an air conditioner. This number measures how effectively a unit cools over its lifetime and ranges from 13 to 23. The higher the SEER number, the more efficient it is and subsequently, the lower your operating costs will be.

Types of Air Conditioners

Now that you’ve considered the energy efficiency ratings, it’s time to decide which type of air conditioner is best for your needs. There are several types of air conditioners to choose from, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. It’s important to weigh all options before making a purchase.

The first type of air conditioner is the window unit. Window units are easy to install and relatively inexpensive, making them a popular choice. However, they can be noisy and may not be suitable for larger spaces due to their limited cooling power. Additionally, they block out natural light and take up space in the room.

Another option is a split system air conditioner. These systems have two parts: an outdoor compressor and an indoor coil. This type of system is more expensive than a window unit but offers better energy efficiency and quieter operation. It also takes up less space since the outdoor compressor can be located away from the living area.

Finally, for larger spaces or those with multiple rooms, central air conditioning systems may be the best choice. These systems provide even temperatures throughout the home by circulating cooled air through ductwork connected to each room or zone in your house. Central air conditioners are more expensive than other types but offer maximum cooling power and quieter operation than other options.

Estimating Cooling Capacity Requirements

Before selecting an air conditioner, it’s important to determine the size of the unit that you need. The cooling capacity of an air conditioner is measured in British thermal units (BTUs) and should be calculated based on the square footage of the room and how much sun exposure it gets. The higher the BTU rating, the more powerful the air conditioner will be. To get an accurate reading, you should consult with a professional HVAC contractor who can assess your home’s needs and recommend a system that meets them.

Maintenance and Upkeep Costs

Once you’ve determined the right size and type of air conditioner for your home, it’s important to consider ongoing maintenance and upkeep costs. Although initial installation is often the most expensive part of setting up an air conditioning system, regular maintenance will help ensure that your system runs efficiently and effectively throughout its life.

To keep your system running smoothly, it’s important to perform regular professional check-ups. Your trusted air conditioning technician should inspect the filters, coils, fan motor, compressor, and other components for signs of wear and tear. They should also check for any refrigerant leaks and make sure all connections are secure. It’s also a good idea to replace or clean the filters every few months to keep the air clean and reduce energy consumption.

It’s also important to factor in additional repair costs in case anything goes wrong with your system. If something breaks down or needs replacing, you may have to pay out-of-pocket expenses beyond what’s covered by warranty or insurance plans. To keep repair costs down, it’s best to take preventative measures such as scheduling routine maintenance visits or investing in a home service plan that covers repairs and replacements.

Before choosing an air conditioner for your home, be sure to weigh all of these considerations carefully so that you get the best value for your money in terms of installation costs, energy efficiency ratings, noise level, maintenance requirements, repair costs and more.

Noise Level Specifications

Besides the installation and upkeep costs of your air conditioner, the noise level is also an important factor to consider. Air conditioners may be rated for sound levels in decibels (dB), so when shopping around, you’ll want to look for a unit that is as quiet as possible. The best air conditioners are designed to keep noise levels low without compromising on cooling efficiency. Look for a unit with a high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating and a low sound power level.

In addition to the sound ratings given by manufacturers, you should also take into account external factors like where your AC will be located and how much background noise there is in your home. If possible, try testing out different models in the store or talk to a specialist who can advise which one would suit your needs best.

Operating Cost Estimates

Once you have an idea of the type of air conditioner you want, it’s time to start looking at operating costs. When evaluating air conditioners, it’s important to factor in upfront installation costs as well as long-term energy bills. To get an accurate estimate of how much your unit will cost over its lifetime, use a calculator to compare different models and their associated running costs.

The most important thing to consider is the SEER rating for each model. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy efficient the unit is likely to be. Energy Star-rated models are usually a good bet when it comes to saving money on cooling bills over time. Additionally, make sure that you check out any additional features such as programmable thermostats or zone control systems that can help keep your household comfortable while also helping you save money on energy bills.

Finally, always ask about warranties when shopping for an air conditioning system. Most units come with at least a one-year warranty but some may have longer coverage periods or include additional benefits like free maintenance and repair services. Knowing what kind of coverage your unit has can help protect against costly repairs down the line and ensure that your AC operates efficiently for many years to come.

Conclusion

Taking these tips into account will help you narrow down your choices and make sure you pick the best option for your needs. Ultimately, purchasing an air conditioning system is a big investment, so it’s important to get it right the first time around. Do your research and don’t be afraid to ask questions if you’re unsure about something.

Overall, investing in an air conditioning system can bring you great comfort and convenience during those hot summer months. With proper care and maintenance, your unit should provide years of reliable service – giving you peace of mind and a cool environment in which to relax and enjoy your time indoors. Contact Big Easy Air Conditioning today for more details!