Home air conditioning systems are more efficient than ever before. If you’re looking to replace your cooling system, the new A/C options available will help keep you cool and save you money for years to come. But, where do you even start? Selecting the right air conditioner can seem like a daunting task, but here at CW Suter we make sure to provide you with options suited best for you and your needs. This guide is here to give you some insight on the buying process and provide you with helpful information to ensure you make the right decision. This guide is intended for information purposes only. One of our HVAC experts will go into depth to be able to determine the ideal size and solution for your home, as well as guide you through the entire process.
Size Matters
A common misconception about air conditioners is that bigger is better. However, oversized A/C units will leave the space they cool feeling cold and clammy. As air conditioners lower temperatures, they also remove moisture from the air. When an air conditioners cooling capacity matches the room size, it will effectively manage both humidity and temperature. An A/C that’s too small for the space comes with a different set of issues. Most importantly, it will struggle to lower temperatures. As a result, the unit will run constantly, wasting power as your utility bill rises.
HVAC Filters
The higher the MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating, the smaller the particles the filter will capture before the air is circulated into your house. When you’re selecting a new air filter, it is recommended that your filter have a MERV rating of at least a 7. If you or someone in your home frequently suffers from seasonal or airborne allergens, selecting the right air filter may help reduce these symptoms. The frequency in which you should be changing your air filter also depends on a few other factors in your home including: the number of people living in your home and the number of pets you have. A pleated or high-efficiency air filter will generally trap a higher percentage of particles and pollutants before the air is circulated throughout your home. You may also want to consider replacing your filters more frequently, at least every 30-60 days for optimal air quality.
SEER Rating
In order to reduce the amount of wasted energy, the Department of Energy has set standards that stipulate the least allowed efficiency ratings. This efficiency rating is called SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating). It is important that as a homeowner you pay attention to a unit’s SEER rating. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the A/C unit is and the cheaper it will be to run in the long run.
Air Conditioner Maintenance/Repair
Your air conditioner is an investment that increases your homes value and efficiency, as well as your health and comfort. Dirt and neglect are the top causes of failure and inefficiency. To combat this, it’s important to perform proper routine maintenance. During the bi-annual maintenance appointments a technician performs maintenance and inspections to make sure your HVAC system is performing its best. Learn more about our maintenance plan or enroll by clicking here.
Upgrading your thermostat from a manual to a programmable or smart thermostat can help you have more control over both your home’s temperature and energy bill. Learn more about the different thermostats available, and which will help you maximize your cooling efforts this summer here. Due to the high costs associated with energy, air conditioners can be expensive to run as they consume a big share of any home’s energy. For this reason, when you are out buying a central air conditioner you need to ensure that you are purchasing a unit that is highly effective, that is, it should be able to cool your home’s air in the most cost-effective way. Call us at 712-252-3007 to have one of our experts give you a free, no obligation quote.