Do you know what to look for in the perfect AC? When you shop for an AC, you’ll hear a lot of technical terms, like BTUs and cooling load. Understanding these terms, the different types of AC systems, and other AC features will help you find the best AC system for your home.
Understanding Your Cooling Needs
Before you choose the best AC system, you have to assess your home’s cooling needs. When choosing an AC, you need to think about the following factors:
- The size of your home
- The local climate
- Your specific cooling preferences
For example, you may only want air conditioning in a few of your rooms during the day. If this is the case, ductless mini-splits could be the best option. Similarly, your AC will need to have a smaller or larger capacity based on how big your home is and how hot it gets during the summer. In humid and dry climates, you may even want to invest in a dehumidifier or humidifier.
Types of AC Systems
As you shop for the best AC system for your needs, you’ll discover that there are many different air conditioning options available. Ductless mini-splits, window units, portable units, and central air conditioners are generally the most common options. By understanding the pros and cons of residential AC systems, you can make an informed decision.
Central Air Conditioner
Central air conditioning is a popular choice because of how efficient it is at cooling homes. They are especially effective in purifying the air and improving home comfort. Each unit has an outdoor and indoor unit, ductwork, and vents.
Because it uses ductwork, there is a higher upfront cost if you don’t already have existing ducts. Unlike a portable air conditioner, central AC is fairly complex to install. You will need to hire a professional HVAC technician to install it.
Ductless Mini-Splits
Ductless mini-splits are known for being incredibly efficient, so you can expect lower electricity bills in the summer. They don’t rely on ducts to transport air, so you’ll likely have an indoor air handler to move cool air to other rooms.
Ductless mini-splits generally require more maintenance and space. These systems are often installed near your ceilings, so some homeowners may dislike their aesthetic appeal.
Portable Air Conditioners
Portable air conditioners are fairly cheap, so they are good if you’re on a budget. They are also easy to install, so you may be able to handle the installation yourself. Thanks to their size, they can easily be hidden away in a closet during the wintertime.
However, portable air conditioners produce heat, so they have to be installed next to a window for venting purposes. Besides being unable to cool large spaces, they tend to use more electricity as well. Since portable air conditioners are designed for indoor use, their noise levels may bother some people.
Window Units
Window units are cheap to buy and straightforward to install. If you only need to cool a single room, this is a cost-effective option.
Like portable air conditioners, window units produce heat and need to vent through a window. They are also less efficient and unable to cool large areas. Because of their design, you can’t easily move them from room to room.
Key Factors to Consider
When choosing an AC unit, there are several factors you should look at. You must pick a size and capacity that matches your home. For cooling capacity, multiply the square footage of your home by 20 to get the number of BTUs your AC needs.
Additionally, you should consider the different features home cooling solutions offer. Energy efficiency, programmable thermostats, wireless connectivity, adjustable fan speeds, and smart features are popular options.
Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings
One of the most important things you should look for is an energy-efficient AC. ENERGY STAR-rated units achieve a 20% improvement in energy efficiency. As a result, this certification can lead to lower energy consumption and significant cost savings on your energy bill.
You can also use the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) to see how efficient an AC is. The higher this ratio is, the more efficient your air conditioner is. Currently, northern states must have a SEER of 14 or higher. In southern states, 15 SEER is the minimum efficiency standard.
Professional Installation and Maintenance
With a professional AC installation service, you can keep your AC operating as efficiently and effectively as possible. A well-maintained central air conditioner can last 15 to 20 years, so routine maintenance can save you money on repairs and replacements.
When looking for AC installation services, consider the following factors.
- Experience
- Reliability
- Reputation, online reviews, and customer testimonials
- Promotions and discounts
- Certifications and licenses
- Availability
Discover the Best AC for Your Home
Each household has different AC requirements. Depending on your comfort preferences, home size, budget, and climate, the right air conditioner can vary.
Once you have carefully chosen the best AC system, the next step is getting a professional AC installation service to set up your air conditioner. With the right AC and professional installation services, you can enjoy a cooler, more comfortable home.
