The capacity of your home air conditioner is measured in tons or British Thermal Units, which represent how much energy it takes to cool or raise the temperature of a pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. This measurement is most common when comparing air conditioning units, as one ton of heat is equal to one ton of water. When you are shopping for a new air conditioner, it is important to consider the tonnage, which is the amount of heat it removes from a room over an hour.
When an air conditioner makes unusual noises, you should consider its condition and contact a licensed HVAC technician as soon as possible. While air conditioning units are designed to run quietly, they can also be affected by loose belts, broken components, and even fallen debris. To avoid further damage, it’s important to address such issues as quickly. A licensed HVAC technician can help you diagnose any problems and fix them before they become worse. In addition to keeping your home cool and comfortable, a home air conditioner also dehumidifies the air supply inside your home. In humid climates, mold and fungi can grow in homes that lack proper ventilation.
To reduce your energy costs, make sure to choose a single-stage compressor, which operates either at full capacity or at reduced capacity. Single-stage compressors provide maximum cooling on hot days but are ineffective during cooler days. Moreover, single-stage compressors waste energy by running at maximum capacity while being inefficient during mild days. This type of air conditioning will keep your home cool without compromising on comfort. It is also recommended to select a system that features a dehumidifier.
Another important feature of a home air conditioner is its capacity. The air conditioner’s cooling capacity is measured in British thermal units per hour. Its capacity is determined by the volume of a room, which is measured by length, width, and height. The calculation is based on this volume and is usually between three and five Btus per cubic foot. If there are windows, the technician will adjust the calculation for you. This ensures that your air conditioner is running as efficiently as possible, even when you’re not there.
When you purchase a new air conditioner, you’ll want to consider the energy efficiency rating. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy-efficient the system. SEER is an acronym for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio and is a way for consumers to understand how energy-efficient air conditioners are. Higher SEER ratings are always better, but the lower SEER is not necessarily the same as the higher SEER. You can also consider purchasing a unit that has a higher SEER rating than the one you currently have.
Another consideration is the size of the home. High-rise buildings tend to have huge floor-to-ceiling windows, which are a major source of heat and moisture. The majority of condos are under strata ownership and may not allow exterior changes. This is when a portable air conditioner becomes invaluable. You can easily plug it in and turn it off in unused rooms. A ductless mini split can provide the same benefits, without the ductwork.