Choosing an air conditioner isn’t a task that many of us face very often, but when we do, the process is filled with questions and confusion. What does all the different jargon mean? What kind of unit should you choose, and who should install the AC system? These inquiries aren’t all easy to answer, but picking out the right air conditioner for your home or business shouldn’t be any more difficult than choosing another appliance.
Your choice does matter, though. Your unit will have a direct impact on the level of comfort inside your building and the amount of money you spend on energy. So, what do you need to know?
Things to Consider Whether You’re a Home or Business Owner
As you consider your options for AC installation, it’s crucial to develop a good understanding of what you want to see in a unit. Although there is often the sense that air conditioners are expensive to run, modern units are far more energy-efficient and capable of keeping homes cooler with less energy. That doesn’t mean all ACs are the same, though. Familiarize yourself with energy efficiency-related terms such as SEER to know what you’re looking at when you comparison shop. Look for advanced features, too, such as variable speed compressors. These modern hardware improvements ensure you get the most bang for your buck.
What Do You Need in a Residential Air Conditioner?
More than anything else, the answer to this question is “the right sized air conditioner.” Size? What does that mean? It’s not about how much physical space the unit takes up inside and outside your home, although that is a concern for some homeowners. In HVAC terminology, “size” refers to the cooling capacity of the air conditioner. In other words, is the unit strong enough to provide adequately cool air for the entire indoor volume of your home? A unit that is too large and powerful won’t provide better performance — it’s the opposite, in fact. You’ll want to seek professional advice before you install an AC system that isn’t “just right” for your home.
Choosing Commercial Air Conditioning Solutions
Just as with air conditioners for residential use, business owners will want to pay careful attention to energy efficiency ratings and unit sizing. Since commercial buildings tend to be much larger, a correspondingly bigger unit is necessary. In some cases, the most cost-effective solution may be to operate several air conditioners together. Creating cooling “zones” for large buildings may prove more efficient and cost-effective than trying to maintain the same temperature throughout the whole structure. Commercial users may also benefit from the cost savings possible from adopting a “package unit,” which contains the necessary hardware to provide heating in the winter as well.
How Professionals Help Make the Choice Easier
Finding help from a professional is an essential part of this process, and not just because you can’t “DIY” an air conditioner installation. By engaging with a proven supplier right from the beginning, you can tap into a range of benefits that will make the process easier and more cost-effective. By working with the pros, you gain:
- Experienced insights into solutions typically used for homes of your size. Since sizing is so important, you’ll want to choose an HVAC professional with a strong track record in the residential market.
- A fast track to installation once you decide. A prompt installation is especially important when you need cool air right away, but a speedy installation is also helpful for new construction.
- An easy resource for maintenance after installation. You start with a friendly and reliable team to call if anything goes wrong.
- Education and insight into proper AC unit operation and home maintenance. From changing your filter to spotting trouble signs, there are lots to know.
Supply and Install for an AC System: What to Know
Is there any particular brand you should seek out when you want to install a new AC? How can you be sure you’re getting the best price? These are questions for a discussion with your HVAC professional, but in general, there is a wide range of proven and well-trusted brands on the market. If you have a preference, your provider should be able to work with you.
As for installation, the process typically only takes about a day. From installing the compressor to hooking up the blower motor, it should take no more than about eight hours. Before long, you’ll have firsthand experience with the performance of your pick.
Explore All Your Potential Solutions Today
The importance of finding the right choice before you install an AC system is hard to overstate. As a long-term investment, you should aim to avoid any trouble in the immediate future. By sizing correctly, choosing from a reputable manufacturer, and investing in licensed and insured installation services in Santa Rosa, you can enjoy cool air and peace of mind in no time.