Did you know that air conditioners come in different sizes?
There are a lot of options when it comes to heating and cooling equipment. You have a choice of efficiency, system type, comfort features…you name it! Air conditioners even come in different sizes. HOWEVER, do you have a choice when it comes to the air conditioner in your home?
Your home is unique; your comfort needs are unique – the size of your air conditioner will reflect this. It is important to have a properly sized air conditioner. Your heating and cooling contractor must come in and do a load calculation to determine the right size air conditioner for your home.
If your HVAC system is too large, it will run for less time. While this may sound like a good thing…it isn’t. Your air conditioner could be going through costly on/off cycles. It is more efficient to run your air conditioner longer at a lower capacity. Plus, if your air conditioner is not running long enough, your system may not be properly dehumidifying your home. This can lead to mold growth and poor overall indoor air quality. That’s not even to mention the negative impact a large air conditioner can have on home comfort.
If your HVAC system is too small, it will run longer at a higher capacity. This will raise electricity bills, AND your home may never reach your desired comfort levels.
Longer run times and more frequent on/off cycles can reduce efficiency and system lifespan! Your air conditioner is an investment in home comfort. You want that investment to pay off over the years.
This is why we consider quotes over the phone or on the back of a business card a red flag. Since your home is unique, your contractor should always come out to your home and perform a Manual J load calculation before determining the equipment you need in your home.
Did your contractor perform a Manual J load calculation when you had your air conditioner installed?