HVAC: Keeping Your Cool In the SummerHVAC: Keeping Your Cool In the Summer

You have many options to choose from when it comes to air conditioning installation for your home. While this may at first blush seem appealing, you may end up facing the paradox of wanting to make the best choice but feel like you can't. Establishing your specific air conditioning needs is the most important step in choosing the correct AC system for your home. Here are some important considerations for a residential air conditioning installation.

Your Dwelling's Cooling Load

The cooling load of a home is the amount of heat energy that would need to be extracted from its interior environment to maintain the desired indoor temperature range. It is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs).

Your home's cooling load determines what size of AC unit you should install. This depends on a variety of factors, including:

• The size of your home or areas to be cooled in square footage.
• The home's construction, including walls, floors, ceilings, and roof.
• The type and thickness of insulation installed in the home.
• The size and thermal performance of the home's windows and skylights.

Consider seeking professional assistance with calculating your dwelling's cooling load. An oversized AC unit will result in higher running costs due to the extra cooling capacity you don't need while an undersized unit could end up working inefficiently as it struggles to cool beyond its capacity.

The Efficiency of Your Air Conditioner

Air conditioners run on electricity and they are one of the biggest energy consumers in most homes. Before you can install an air conditioning unit in your home, you should consider how energy efficient it is. 

Most modern AC manufacturers usually include an energy rating label on their products to indicate just how energy efficient the products are compared to other products on the market. The more stars you see on an AC product, the more energy-efficient it is and the greater the energy savings you stand to realise. The most efficient ACs on the market tend to be the most expensive to buy, but they pay for themselves handsomely due to the associated long-term savings on electricity costs.

A quality residential air conditioning installation starts with choosing the right AC for your particular needs. Air conditioning contractors are familiar with the many different types of air conditioners available on the market and can help you choose the best one. Don't hesitate to consult them if you need expert help with your residential AC selection.