When the weather outside is anything but comfortable, having an AC system installed can make a world of difference to your home. But with so many factors affecting the effectiveness and efficiency of your air conditioning unit, it’s important to think carefully before you choose one.

In this blog post, we explore key features that should be taken into account when installing an AC system. From size and BTU capacity to noise levels and energy savings, understanding these points will help ensure that you get the most out of your new cooling solution. Read on to find out how you can benefit from an optimized AC installation.

Looking to have an AC professionally installed? Check out Smart Air Solutions.

1. Determine the size and capacity of your AC system based on the size of your home and the number of people occupying it

When considering the size and capacity of your AC system, it’s important to take into account the size of your home, as well as how many people will be occupying it. An undersized unit will have to work harder to cool a space, resulting in higher energy costs. On the other hand, an AC that is too large for the space will waste energy and money. 

A good rule of thumb is to calculate your BTUs (British Thermal Units) based on the square footage of your home, along with any additional factors that may influence cooling, such as the number of windows or exposure to direct sunlight.

As a general guide, each square foot of living space requires 20 BTUs up to 1000 square feet, and 15 BTUs for spaces larger than 1000 square feet. 

2. Choose an AC with the right noise level

The sound output of air conditioners can vary greatly depending on the type and size of the unit, so it’s important to consider how much noise you can tolerate. Not only can a loud AC be disruptive in an otherwise peaceful home environment, but too much noise may also cause sleep disturbances for those living in close proximity to the unit.

Before you purchase an AC system, always check the decibel (dB) rating of the unit. This will give you an idea of how loud it is at different power levels, allowing you to make an informed decision about noise levels. Generally speaking, anything below 55 dB should be considered quiet enough for most homes.

3. Calculate the energy efficiency rating (EER) for different AC units to find the most cost-effective option

The Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) of an AC unit is a key feature to consider when evaluating the cost-effectiveness of different models. This rating indicates how efficient the unit is at converting electricity into cooling power. The higher the EER, the more energy efficient and economical the AC system will be.

When comparing different AC units, be sure to check the EER rating and calculate an estimate of how much it would cost to run the unit over a year. This will give you an idea of how much money can be saved in energy costs with higher efficiency ratings.

4. Consider the installation costs for a new AC system, including potential rebates or tax credits

In addition to the cost of the unit itself, it’s important to factor in any additional installation costs when choosing an AC system. It’s likely that you will need to pay for labor and materials involved with fitting your new air conditioner – take this into account when making your decision. 

There may be additional rebates and tax credits available in your area for installing an AC system. Research local incentives to find out if you could be eligible for extra savings. 

5. Research different types of air filters that can help remove allergens from your air

Air filters are a great way to keep your air clean and free of dust, pollen, pet dander and other allergens. The type of filter you choose depends on the size and configuration of your AC unit, as well as how much filtration you require.

A basic pleated filter is often sufficient for most households, but if you or anyone in your family suffers from allergies, you may want to invest in a higher-end filter with better filtration capabilities. 

Be sure to check the MERV rating of any filter you’re considering, as this indicates its ability to remove particles from the air. The higher the rating, the more effective it will be at capturing allergens. 

6. Learn about zoning options to control temperature in multiple rooms at once

If you have a large home and multiple rooms that require different temperatures, it may be worth considering installing a zoning system. This involves dividing your home into sections or “zones” with separate thermostats for each zone.

This allows you to adjust the temperature in individual rooms as needed while avoiding overcooling other areas. It also helps reduce energy costs, as you won’t be cooling or heating rooms that aren’t being used.

When installing an AC system, be sure to ask about zoning options and their associated costs for a more customized solution. This will help ensure your home is comfortable all year round without having to pay extra for energy bills.

Conclusion

By taking all of these factors into consideration, you will be well on your way to finding the most efficient and cost-effective AC system for your home. 

Once you have settled on a unit, it’s important to ensure that it is installed correctly by a qualified professional. Doing so will help guarantee that your system is running optimally and effectively for many years to come.