The AC unit that is installed in your home is one of the most important features on the property and can determine the level of comfort in the building. Unfortunately, many people make the mistake of installing a unit that is the incorrect size in the space.
If you want to find the right AC unit, there are a few important tips to follow to ensure your interior setting is adequately cooled.
Consider Your Current Unit
Before you begin to shop around for the right AC model for your home, consider the appliance that is currently installed. Many homes can benefit from a 5-ton unit, which is common in most buildings. 3-ton units are also ideal in smaller settings. Choosing a unit that is too small can make it difficult to control the temperature in the building, whereas a larger unit can turn on and off too frequently as it’s in use.
Consider the BTU Load
You can shop around for the right AC unit by looking at the BTU load. You can determine the number of BTUs you need by calculating the square feet in your home. You should have 20 to 30 BTUs for every square foot. If you live in a home that doesn’t have an AC unit, start narrowing down your options based on the number of rooms that are present in the building.
It’s also important to look at how much insulation you have present in the building. If you live in an older home, it may be necessary to have a higher BTU load. If you have rooms that are shaded, you can reduce the cooling load by 10 percent for each room that doesn’t have a lot of natural sunlight and tends to stay cool.
Review the Different Types of AC Units Available
There are many different types of air conditioners available on the market. Window air conditioners are easy to install and are ideal for smaller spaces like apartments or townhouses. Central air conditioners are considered to be more efficient and cool the entire house with one unit. Portable air conditioners are also effective if you only need to cool one room in the house.
Once you follow the right guidelines while shopping around for the right air conditioning system, it can be easier to make the right selection. With the proper size, you can get more use out of the appliance and have enough cool air in each room of the house for increased comfort.
