Air conditioner sizes explained
In order to choose the right unit to keep your home comfortably cool during those long summer months, it is important to understand air conditioner sizes.
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If you are adding a new air conditioner to your home, you may find the different sizes confusing. In order to choose the right unit to keep your home comfortably cool during those long summer months, it is important to understand air conditioner sizes.
Get free AC quotes today! Ask contractors about air conditioner sizes for your home!
Not only can air conditioner sizing affect the comfort of your home, but it can also impact your electrical bill.
As a general rule of thumb, if you are shopping for a central air unit, you will need about one ton for every 500 square feet of living space in your home.
For instance, if your home has 1,500 square feet of living space, you will likely need a 3-ton AC unit.
If you have a two-story home, you may require two systems to keep both floors of your home comfortably cool. Although you might be able to get by with just one AC unit on the first floor of the home. Trying to cool the second floor of your home could prove to be expensive.
When shopping for air conditioner sizes, the impact the size can have on your utility costs cannot be stressed enough. If you choose an air conditioner that is too small for your home, not only will you have difficulty keeping your home cool on those really hot days, but your system will also need to run constantly and extra hard. This can result in increased utility costs, as well as frequent repairs for your unit because it is not cycling or shutting down as it should.
Conversely, air conditioners that are too large for the amount of living space you have can also cause problems. An air conditioner that is too large for the space will cycle on and off too often. Overly large air conditioner sizes can result in problems, such as excessive humidity.
Many consumers are naturally concerned about air conditioner prices. Obtaining more than one estimate is a good way to compare and make certain you find the best deal.
When you interview potential contractors to install a new air conditioning unit in your home, ask about the following:
- Are you insured?
- How will you determine the unit size my home needs?
- Is this unit the most energy efficient option?
- Is a warranty included?
Any contractor who will install an air conditioner unit in your home should also provide you with a written contract. The contract should specify everything that is included in the job. This includes how long the project will take as well as complete pricing. If you are ready to hire a contractor and need assistance in locating a professional in your area, click here.
By understanding air conditioner sizes and how to determine the best size for your home, you can be better prepared to make a more informed purchasing decision when you are ready to install a new unit.
Photo credit: Clara T S H via Compfight CC.