Buying an air conditioner for your home requires careful consideration. Consider many different features, including energy efficiency ratings, directional airflow, size, and cost. You will also want to choose one with anti-bacterial filters to keep harmful organisms from growing inside. Anti-bacterial filters are essential for homes with pets or children. In addition, look for an auto-clean function, which prevents harmful microorganisms from regrowing in the filter.
Energy efficiency ratings
The government has established standards for energy efficiency in various products, including air conditioners. Before 2006, the SEER rating for room air conditioners was expected to be at least 10, but this value was later revised to 13 and 14, respectively. As a result, the government has specified a bare minimum value of 14 for air conditioning units in California. Another example is the ac air conditioner Conway AR. However, these numbers may vary a little depending on where you live. However, it would be best if you generally looked for units with an EER rating of 20 or higher.
The energy efficiency rating of an air conditioner is based on its capacity to cool a room or building. This number is often expressed in British Thermal Units (BTU). A ton is equivalent to 12,000 BTU per hour. Therefore, a central air conditioner has a higher SEER rating than a window-type unit, and the highest EER rating is 15 or more. In addition, all new air conditioners must display a conspicuous Energy Guide Label.
Directional airflow
When buying an air conditioner, consider the direction of airflow. The arrows on the air filter should face the direction of the unit. For example, the indicators must point to the vent if the air conditioner is attached to a wall or ceiling vent. The plastic bag will be sucked up towards the vent when the air conditioner is running. If not, it will not work. You can quickly solve this problem by reseating the vent.
Cost
The cost of AC installation varies depending on the type and size of your unit. A simple window unit can cool one or two rooms for around $150. Portable units are also an option for mild climates. They are portable and operate from a window. Prices of mobile units vary depending on the brand and model. Ducted systems consist of an air handler, indoor evaporator coil, and outdoor condenser. The cost of a ducted system can range from $2,400 to $14,500.
When replacing your AC system, the cost can run anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. The cost of an AC system usually includes all materials, labor, permits, and disposal. The price can vary widely depending on the model you choose. Portable units cost around $200, while central systems can cost upwards of $15,000 to replace. There are also rebates and tax credits available. Once you have determined how much you can spend, you can make an informed decision about what type of AC is best for your home.
Size
The size of your air conditioning unit depends on the room’s purpose. For instance, a kitchen will need a higher BTU level than a living room. And rooms that receive direct sunlight will be scorching during the summer. An HVAC professional can perform a load calculation to determine the correct size. Fortunately, there are many ways to determine what size AC is needed. Manual J load calculation is the most accurate method when it comes to size. First, you must know the number of rooms and windows in your house to determine the correct BTUs. Once you’ve figured out your exact room size, the suitable cargo will be prominent. For an accurate estimate of your AC’s tonnage, you can also consider your neighbor’s house’s size. The higher the ceilings in your room, the larger the AC unit needs to be.
Brands
When purchasing an air conditioning unit, you should consider several factors when selecting a brand. While brands like Trane and Lennox are highly regarded, you may find cheaper models that match the same high standards. Many units are made by the same manufacturer and share many of the same internal working parts, though some may have minor differences, like the appearance of their housings. While some models may look similar, the features and quality