If you're planning an air conditioner installation for your Fort Wayne area home, you've likely familiarized yourself with cooling efficiency ratings such as SEER and EER, and fully expect your new air conditioner to achieve its rated efficiency level. However, the truth is that certain conditions in the field can undermine the efficiency that an A/C can deliver in laboratory conditions. Here are four factors that must be addressed correctly during air conditioner installation in order to achieve optimum performance and efficiency.
Yes, size does matter
The size that you choose for your system can have quite an impact on your A/C's efficiency and performance. If you undersize your system, it must work harder to achieve the same results as a larger unit. On the flip side, an air conditioner that's too big for your home will short cycle, which waste energy, provides uneven cooling, wears out parts, and doesn't adequately control humidity.
Your system airflow is important
In order for your A/C to reach the temperature you desire, air must be allowed to flow freely. Impeded airflow is often caused by restrictive grilles or ductwork design. Another possible problem is an air handler than has not been properly matched with your A/C system, and ducts that are too small.
Make sure your ductwork is tight
If you want your air conditioner installation to succeed, reducing air leakage in your ducts is essential. Not only do leaky ducts waste conditioned air and energy, it's not healthy to allow unconditioned air from your attic or crawlspace to infiltrate into your ducts and circulate in your home with the conditioned air. Seal and insulate your ductwork properly.
Correct refrigerant charge is essential
An A/C unit's refrigerant charge is often overlooked, and that can seriously hurt cooling system efficiency. Studies show that seven out of 10 A/Cs have too much or too little refrigerant. Your HVAC technician should provide the manufacturer recommended refrigerant charge for optimum efficiency.
For more expert advice about air conditioner installation or other home comfort information, please contact us at Hartman Brothers Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. We've been serving Fort Wayne and the surrounding area for 50 years.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in New Haven, Indiana and surrounding Fort Wayne area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about air conditioner installation and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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