When hiring an AC installation service contractor, make sure they can meet your home cooling needs. It’s also important to know the new system will lower energy costs and last many years without major issues. An experienced and reputable AC replacement and installation company will consider these and other factors. In this overview, we’ll look at 10 considerations for AC installation and the company you choose.
1. How Large Should My AC Be?
An AC will meet your home’s cooling needs only if it’s sized correctly. By size, we mean the air conditioner’s capacity. Not that available space isn’t important; the unit and other equipment must fit in your home.
Air conditioner capacity is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs). The number of BTUs you need depends mainly on your home’s square footage, among many other factors. Consider around 20 BTUs per square foot (multiply how many square feet your home is by 20) when sizing an AC. Also, ACs are rated in tons (1 ton equals 12,000 BTUs).
But even with this considered, an AC installation service professional will perform a load calculation that considers the following:
- Climate
- Insulation
- Directional orientation of rooms
- Type of room
- Ceiling height
- Number of occupants
- Number of windows and doors
If you don’t have the right size AC, it may run too long, cycle too frequently, and use too much energy. You’ll also have comfort issues (too large a unit won’t run long enough to maintain the set temperature; too small a unit will leave parts of your home too cold or hot). Frequent repairs are also likely.
2. What Type of AC Do I Need?
More choices than ever are available when replacing your AC. Many people still prefer central AC systems, especially if they already have ductwork installed and need only one thermostat. Other increasingly popular options include ductless mini-split systems that deliver precise temperature control to individual rooms. This “zoning” and the absence of air leaks improves efficiency; however, the most efficient option is a heat pump, which provides both heating and cooling.
3. Am I Taking Energy Efficiency Seriously?
Many AC buyers simply take the product label’s word for it. But do you understand energy efficiency? Higher energy efficiency typically means paying more upfront for AC installation service. However, the higher an air conditioner’s Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) is, the more energy efficient it is. Minimum SEER requirements have increased over the years and vary depending on the region where you live. Look for Energy Star-certified units to save even more.
4. Is My Ductwork Suited for the New System?
If you’re replacing your old AC with a new central unit, the ductwork must be in good shape. Otherwise, dirty or leaky ducts will increase energy consumption, no matter how efficient the new system is. To avoid such issues, schedule a ductwork inspection. Your HVAC contractor will determine if your air ducts should be cleaned, sealed, or both. If there’s severe wear or damage, ductwork replacement will be necessary to ensure comfort and good indoor air quality.
5. Should I Invest More In Upgrading My HVAC System?
Although buying a less expensive air conditioner may initially save you money, it’s not a cost-effective choice over time. Higher-end models tend to consume less energy, so your electric bills can be lower. They also include higher-quality materials and components, so frequent repairs and early system replacement are less likely. Thus, spending more on a higher-quality system can yield long-term savings.
6. Are My Indoor Air Quality Needs Being Met?
Manufacturers design and build air conditioners to precise specifications based on the latest air quality standards. But it’s not only the AC unit that affects indoor air quality. Your ductwork must be in good repair and your AC installation service contractor should help decide whether to also install an air quality control solution, such as a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter or a whole-home air purification system.
7. Will the Latest Technologies Work In My Home?
Zoning can help achieve a new level of comfort. It’s also energy-saving and cost-effective. But what about the latest smart systems? If you have Wi-Fi, your air conditioner can be controlled from your smartphone. Also, ask your AC contractor about smart thermostats. Depending on the model, it can learn your schedule, turn the system off when you leave your home (and turn it on when you return), and monitor and report on energy usage.
8. Do I Need Additional Equipment?
The brand and type of equipment in your HVAC system should match. Otherwise, mismatched components may be incompatible, causing mechanical strain and increasing energy usage. This can lead to costly repairs.
Therefore, you should consider replacing your AC and heater at the same time, as well as your ductwork, if it’s worn out or improperly sized. If you choose a packaged system, all the components that would be in the indoor and outdoor units are housed together, reducing the amount of equipment you need.
Other equipment considerations include add-ons like heat pumps. Also, ask your AC installer if you need new or additional wiring, a dedicated electrical circuit, or an electrical panel upgrade.
9. Have I Found a Reliable AC Installation Service Provider?
Just because a company says it specializes in AC installation doesn’t mean it’s good at it. Do your research and evaluate several contractors before narrowing down your options. If you expect a successful AC installation, look for an HVAC contractor with:
- Industry licensure and certification
- Experienced and qualified technicians
- Positive and consistent online reviews
- Recommendations by friends, neighbors, colleagues, etc.
- Free in-home estimates
- Knowledge of numerous makes and models
10. What Is My AC Contractor’s Installation Process?
Ask questions so you know the company is up-front about its installation process. The contractor should inform you of any special offers and maintenance plans. Once it provides a price quote, you should receive a timeline and a step-by-step rundown of how the technicians will proceed. From equipment sizing and selection to safely removing your old unit to installing and testing the new system, it should all go smoothly.
Call Air Stars Today
Air Stars provides high-quality AC replacement and installation in Keizer, OR; Salem, OR; and surrounding areas. If your air conditioner is no longer meeting your cooling needs, our professionals will help find an energy-efficient unit that’s properly sized for your home. Financing options are available; also ask about opportunities to save on a new system. To schedule a consultation or AC installation service, book it online or call (503) 483-8616 today.
