What Should I Consider When Buying a Central Air Conditioning System?
Gearing Up for the Cooling Season!
Ahoy there! Welcome to my space of fixing and thrifting, where I don all three hats: of a DIY'er, a repairman, and an air condition enthusiast (never thought I'd call myself that but here we are). Let's have a fun little chat today about your new potential BFF – a central air conditioning system. Oh yeah, you heard it right, nothing screams comfort during hot scorching summers like a perfectly working air conditioner. Overwhelming? Nah, not at all. Allow me to be your guide in making this important decision.
Uh-oh! It's Not Just ‘Bigger, Better’
One might think that the larger the air conditioner, the cooler your house, right? Hell NO! Ignore that inner voice; it's only going to leave you with heavy energy bills and an overly cooled house. The mantra is to find an air conditioning unit that fits just right for your space.
We measure the capacity of air conditioning systems in BTUs (British Thermal Unit). The general rule is to have 20 BTUs for every square foot of your living space. So, don't shy away from doing these little calculations. They are going to come in handy. Pst, don't say I didn't warn you!
Energy Efficiency Matters
You don't want your cool comfort to cost the earth now, do you? Look for air conditioning units that are energy efficient. The efficiency of ACs is calculated in SEER ratings (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio). Simply put, the higher the SEER rating, the less energy consumed, and the lower the bills.
A SEER of 13 is the minimum you should consider, but anything above 16 is your buddy for an energy-saving air conditioning system. While you may think of it as an expensive buy, it's definitely a smarter one for the long run.
A Silent Guardian? Certainly!
The humming of an air conditioning unit can be a catnap spoiler. And trust me, you don't want that. So, look for those machines that promise quieter operation. Anything with a noise level less than 60 decibels should do the trick, and won't get on your nerves, literally!
Warranty Wonders
This might seem mundane but getting an AC unit with a good warranty is essentially buying peace of mind. Opt for extended warranties as they cover more elements for a longer duration. Let's save those future bucks, shall we?
Professional Installation and Maintenance
Remember, nobody understands your home better than you, but when the job gets too big, don't hesitate to take help from a professional. Check for brands that offer free installation and services within the warranty period. Regular maintenance of the system will prolong its life and ensure its peak performance.
Brand Reputation
Go for an AC brand that stands tall in terms of reliability, quality, and customer service. A little research won't hurt; ask around, read reviews, compare and make an informed choice.
Consider Your Climate
If you live in an area with high humidity, consider a system with good moisture removal capacities. On the other hand, if your area has dry heat, an AC system focusing more on cooling capacity will suit your needs better.
Time to Take the Plunge!
So, we have covered quite some ground on the battlefield of AC hunting, haven’t we? While it may require some elbow grease, the fruits of this labour are twofold – a cool, comfy home and the smile that comes with a well-made purchase! Hope this chat prepares you well for your next, or perhaps, the first central air conditioning system purchase. Just bear in mind—the power to turn your house into a sanctuary from the heat lies within your decisions. So, choose well and choose smart. Till next time... keep the DIY spirit alive and chill on!