Before You Replace Your AC

Whether you’re replacing your existing AC or figuring specs for a new build, it’s important that you select the right cooling system for your house. If the system is too small and doesn’t have enough power and capacity, your house will always feel too warm, and the AC will run constantly while trying to meet demand. The result will be high energy bills and an uncomfortable home. On the flip side, if your AC is too large for your house, you’ll be wasting a lot of energy on power that you don’t really need. Both scenarios result in higher costs, so that’s why it’s important to consult an HVAC professional when choosing a central AC system.

Here are some points to consider:

• Energy Rating: Today’s central AC systems are designed to be more energy efficient. Check the ENERGY STAR and SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings and the higher the numbers, the more energy-efficient the unit is. In some states, minimum SEER ratings are mandated. You may pay a bit more upfront, but you’ll save money in the long run on energy bills.
• Air Conditioner Size: As mentioned above, select the right BTU (British Thermal Units) capacity for your house. BTUs measure how much heat the AC unit will remove from your home in one hour. If your AC is too small, it won’t adequately cool your house, and will need to work harder to remove heat and humidity, resulting in increased energy costs. Too large, and the AC will waste energy expending cool air that you don’t need, thus, driving up energy bills. As an aside, make sure that your ductwork is sufficient to accommodate the new AC system. If you don’t have enough registers and returns, parts of your home won’t be cool, especially on higher floors.
• Cost Of Installation: In addition to the cost of the AC unit, you will need to pay for installation. This is definitely not a DIY project, as there are multiple systems involved, including electrical, thermostat and potentially duct work. So, don’t assume that the retail price of your new AC includes installation.
• Maintenance: Now that your new AC is humming along smoothly, it’s important to keep it in peak performance mode. That’s why regularly scheduled maintenance is a necessity. Having an AC tune-up in the spring will ensure that your home will be cool and comfortable when the hot, humid Ohio summers set in. HVAC technicians will clean and inspect your unit and make sure the fan, compressor, coolant levels, and other components are in optimal condition.

Talk with a licensed, professional HVAC advisor to help you choose your new AC system. The team at CARE Heating & Cooling will consult with you to select the best system for your home and comfort needs. Reach out to us at (614) 841-1555 to schedule an appointment.