A large number of Boston residents rely on their central air conditioner to keep them cool during the hot summer months. While everything is fine and dandy when your AC system is working as expected, there may come a point when you run into trouble.
Do you need to replace your old air conditioner with a new unit? Are you interested in adding central AC to your home?
There are many benefits of upgrading your system, ranging from cost savings to quieter performance – and that’s just the start.
If the time comes to choose a central air conditioner, here’s where you should focus your attention:
AC Unit Size
Bigger is better, right? Well, when it comes to your central air conditioner, nothing could be further from the truth.
You want to choose a unit that is large enough to cool your entire home, but not so large that it’s inefficient. If you end up with an AC that’s too large for the square footage of your home, it’ll cycle on and off too often, thus consuming more energy.
The perfect size will cool your home on even the hottest of days, all while maintaining a high level of efficiency.
Energy Efficiency
Speaking of efficiency, not every AC unit is as efficient as the next. When buying, pay attention to the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER).
Even though the government requires every newly manufactured AC unit to have a SEER rating of 13 or above, some are better than others.[i] Generally, you’ll find units that are rated anywhere from 14 to 22, with higher numbers being more energy efficient.
The Type of Compressor
An often overlooked detail, the type of compressor has a big impact on the ability of an air conditioner to efficiently cool your home.
There are three types of units:
Single-stage: Shorter run cycles that often result in temperature swings (periods of comfort and feeling overheated).
Two-stage: Longer run cycles with the ability to maintain a stable temperature.
Variable speed: With continuous operation, it’s able to effectively maintain a constant temperature.
Two-stage and variable speed units are the most efficient.[ii]
What About Price?
The average cost of installing a new central AC unit varies greatly based on factors such as:
Type of unit
Manufacturer
Location
Other required services
According to HomeAdvisor, expect to pay between $1,500 and $4,000 for a central air conditioner.[iii]
Consult with your AC contractor to find a unit that will work for your home, while also fitting into your budget.
It doesn’t matter if you’re interested in a new central AC unit or re quire service or maintenance, we’re here to provide you with high quality service at a competitive price.
Contact us for answers to your questions, professional advice, and/or to schedule an appointment. We’ll make sure you have the central AC system you need to keep you, your family, and your home cool this summer.
Sources:
[i] https://www.energy.gov/sites/prod/files/2015/11/f27/CAC%20Brochure.pdf
[ii] https://www.ecomfort.com/stories/115-How-to-Pick-the-Perfect-Air-Conditioner.html
[iii] https://www.homeadvisor.com/cost/heating-and-cooling/install-an-ac-unit/
Categories:
DIY Air Conditioning
