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1. Types of Air Conditioning:
When it comes to cooling your home, there are several different options available depending on the existing heating, ventilation and cooling (HVAC) capabilities of your house. When you're shopping for a new air conditioning unit, be sure to know what system you're shopping for. Also, consider starting your search in winter or spring so you have plenty of time to shop for your new air conditioner.
- Independent Air Conditioners: If your home's cooling system and heating system are separate, you'll want to shop for an independent air conditioner. This means the cooling duct system will work independently of the heating duct system.
- Air Cooled Air Conditioners: These systems work with your existing furnace system using cool air to cool your home. They also work as dehumidifiers too.
- Water Cooled Air Conditioners: With a water cooled air conditioner, you are also using your existing furnace system. Because these air conditioners use water, be sure to check the valves regularly.
- Gas Chill Air Conditioners: These systems actually use heat to cool your home. They are less common and difficult to work with so be sure to contact a professional to work on this system.
2. Shopping for Air Conditioners:
- Shopping for Air Conditioner Cooling Capacity: Cooling capacity means how cool the AC will get your home. Keep in mind that cooling capacity is measured in BTUs (British thermal units).A contractor can evaluate the appropriate level of cooling capacity for your home. There are a lot of different factors that affect what cooling capacity you'll need, and it's best to get a professional opinion. Be sure your contractor inspects the size of your house, insulation, shade your house receives, and which direction the windows face. Also, be sure to consider what summers are like the environment you live in. Generally though, it's been to get less cooling capacity than too much cooling capacity.
- Shopping for Air Conditioner Cooling Efficiency: Cooling efficiency means how much energy the AC uses to cool your home. When shopping for an energy efficient air conditioner, you'll want to look at the SEER Rating. Cooling efficiency minimums have changed over the years so be aware of the different ratings. For example, a 50 year old air conditioner will probably have a SEER rating of 6, but new air conditioners must have a SEER rating of at least 13 (the higher number the more efficient). More efficient air conditioners not only work better - but they will save you money each year, too.
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