Choosing the right size air conditioning unit for your home is crucial for maintaining a comfortable indoor environment and ensuring energy efficiency. A unit that is too small will struggle to cool your home, while a unit that is too large will waste energy and can lead to humidity issues.
Remember Goldilocks and the Three Bears?
Getting the correctly sized unit for your home needs not to be "Too big" or "Too small," but "Just right."
If you've ever had a pair of shoes that was too tight...
Or measured for a new appliance and forgot to account for the size of the box it comes in discovering that it won't fit through your door...
Or purchased a Medium shirt only to discover (sadly) that you needed a Large...
You'll understand how important it is to accurately assess exactly what size you need.
In five easy steps, I'll tell you what you need to know to choose the perfectly-sized AC unit for your home in Orlando, FL.
1. Understand the Importance of Proper Sizing
Before you begin shopping for a new AC unit, it is essential to understand the importance of proper sizing. An air conditioner that is too small will not be able to adequately cool your home, leading to discomfort and higher energy bills.
On the other hand, an oversized unit will cool your home too quickly, causing it to cycle on and off frequently. This wastes energy and can lead to excessive humidity and wear and tear on your system.
2. Determine Your Home's Cooling Load
The first step in selecting the right size AC unit for your home is to determine your home's cooling load. This is the amount of heat that must be removed from your home to maintain a comfortable temperature.
The cooling load is calculated using a variety of factors, including your home's:
- Size
- Insulation
- Window types
- Heat sources in your home
- The direction your home faces
If you're not a mathematician or an engineer, a professional HVAC technician from ServiceOne can perform a Manual J load calculation to accurately assess your home's cooling load. This calculation is endorsed by the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) and is considered the industry standard.
3. Understand the Different Types of AC Units
Several types of air conditioning units are available, each with its advantages and disadvantages.
Some common types include:
- Central air conditioning
- Ductless mini-split systems
- Window units
Understanding the differences between these systems can help you choose the best option for your home. For example, central air conditioning systems are ideal for larger homes with existing ductwork, while ductless mini-split systems are perfect for homes without ducts or for individual room cooling.
4. Consider Energy Efficiency
When selecting a new AC unit, you should consider energy efficiency. The Energy Star program, administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, provides guidelines for energy-efficient heating and cooling equipment.
Look for an AC unit with a high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating, as this indicates a more energy-efficient system. A higher SEER rating can lead to significant savings on your energy bills over time.
5. Consult with a Professional HVAC Technician
Finally, it is always a good idea to consult with a professional HVAC technician before making a final decision on the size and type of air conditioning unit for your home. A ServiceOne technician can help you determine the best option based on your home's specific needs, your lifestyle, and your budget.
At ServiceOne Air Conditioning & Plumbing, we are committed to helping our customers in the Orlando, FL area choose the right size AC unit for their homes. Our team of experienced technicians can perform a Manual J load calculation to accurately assess your home's cooling load and recommend the ideal system for your needs.
We also offer a wide range of energy-efficient air conditioning units to help you save on your energy bills.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a more comfortable and energy-efficient home.