Last Updated on April 16, 2024 by Ali Hamza
So you have decided to buy central air conditioning.
Nearly eighty percent of new homes in the United States have central air conditioning installed during construction. While it may not have been necessary to have air conditioning decades ago, it’s quite inconvenient not to have it now. But those who have an existing home need not worry, as central air conditioners can be installed even in already built homes. If you’re looking for the best central air conditioning, there are a few things to keep in mind. The best and most important way to purchase central air conditioning is to have it installed by a qualified contractor.
When it comes to saving money through efficient air conditioning systems,
the topic of SEER comes up often. SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, rates the central air conditioner. In fact, you can save quite a bit on your utility bills by replacing your old, inefficient air conditioner with a new SEER-rated central air conditioner. Heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) manufacturers are responding to the challenges of rising energy costs by offering homeowners air conditioners that meet new energy efficiency standards and reduce energy consumption.
Always consult a specialist engineering firm who will specify, design and install the right air conditioning system for your needs. There are many reputable contractors who specialize in installing air conditioners for small and large homes. Large homes usually require a centralized air conditioning system, and installation is more complicated and difficult. There are different types of air conditioners available depending on your needs, the size of your home and your budget.
Choose your air conditioning system and installer
There are a number of reasons why you should opt for a central air conditioning system. It is the most efficient way to heat and cool the whole house as it can bring the air conditioning directly to the rooms whether the interior doors are open or closed. That said, which brand or manufacturer should I consider? Good question, but it really depends on your budget and expectations. It is recommended that you get at least 3 quotes from reputable companies (not stores like Home Depot) that specialize in air conditioning supply and installation.
These companies will have ties to certain manufacturers
and thereby push a brand that they want to make more money from. But knowing in advance which brands you’re interested in will help ensure you’re getting a good deal on a system you’ve chosen and not what they want you to have. The backyard is the most common place to find a central air conditioning (outdoor unit) condenser unit. This information is important because a home’s structure, window area, sun exposure, and climate affect your central air conditioning parts supplier needs. Again, this is where you need specialized guidance from experienced installers. Have them look around your house and check any room you plan to put diffusers (ceiling outlets) in and see if they check the attic. This little check is important because experienced bidders/installers will tell you that some attic ceilings don’t fit well with the ductwork and can cause all sorts of problems during installation.
The electrical load on your home will increase dramatically as a central air conditioner is a major consumer of electricity, some homes cannot meet this requirement and therefore need to upgrade their electrical grid. This can significantly increase installation costs.
Maintaining your air conditioning system
To ensure that your home’s central air conditioning system lasts as long as possible, proper maintenance is a must. You probably recognize, like most homeowners, the importance of keeping your heating and cooling units running. We tend to take our air conditioners for granted and wonder how we ever managed without them, but we rarely check the system before it starts blowing warm air.
Proper care of your air conditioner, such as scheduled cleaning, will also work more efficiently for a long time to come. If you have a central air conditioner, it is important to keep the external compressor room (condenser) as cool as possible.
