Are you ready for a new air conditioner? Whether it’s due to the energy costs and maintenance fees associated with running your old one or a lack of efficiency and a stifling house due to an AC unit that no longer runs at capacity, it’s time to jump in with both feet and choose a new model. With the Florida weather being as hot and humid as ever, you really can’t go without air conditioning for long without risking consequences like heat exhaustion while inside your new home.
Choosing the right air conditioner is a significant decision that can affect your comfort, energy efficiency, and overall cooling costs for years to come.
So, if you’re ready to take the leap and start looking for a new air conditioning unit, Natal Air Conditioning is ready to help. Here’s a quick guide to get you started.
Understanding the Different Types of AC Systems
The first thing that you need to keep in mind when looking for a new AC unit is the various types available. While central air is still popular, it’s no longer the only option. You can choose between:
- A Mini-Split – Mini-splits are wall-mounted AC systems that are entirely self-contained. They are designed to cool only part of a home, such as a large room or an entire floor, while another mini-split or two is needed for the other sections of the house. This system allows you to create zones with different temperatures, which can be a bonus for those who live with people who prefer different comfort levels. Mini-splits are energy-efficient, easy to install, and a great option for homes without existing ductwork.
- A Heat Pump – Heat pumps are useful because they function as both a furnace and an air conditioner. They sit outside of the home and use both interior and exterior air to get the job done. For example, in the summer, the heat pump will remove warm air from the home, leaving the cool air behind. This option is very energy efficient and well-suited for Florida’s mild winters.
- Classic Central Air – Central air systems haven’t changed much over the years, although they have become much more energy-efficient. These systems connect to your existing furnace and ductwork. The AC unit sits outside of the home, cooling down the air that is then pumped through the ductwork to make the house comfortable. A central air system is also good at removing humidity from the air. This is an excellent choice for consistent cooling throughout your home.
- A Packaged AC – Unlike central air systems, packaged air conditioning units have everything that they need to cool off your air in one single unit. They contain the condenser and more, leaving them able to operate without a furnace or ductwork attached to them. If your home lacks ductwork, this is a great option. In addition, you can choose from window-mounted units that only cool part of the home or a larger air conditioner that takes care of your whole house. Packaged systems are compact and ideal for homes with limited space.
Size and Capacity Matter
When you’re shopping for air conditioners, you’ll notice that many of them list a BTU rating. BTU in this case stands for British Thermal Units. A BTU is a measurement of how much power it takes for the machine to heat a single pound of water by a single degree Fahrenheit in an hour. When discussing air conditioners, a BTU measures how much heat it will remove from the air in an hour. While you probably won’t want to do any of these calculations in your head, it’s crucial to keep in mind that the more BTU, the more powerful the machine.
Choosing the correct BTU capacity is essential for both comfort and energy efficiency. A system that is too small for your space will struggle to maintain the desired temperature, causing it to run constantly and increasing energy costs. On the other hand, a unit that is too large will cool the room too quickly without properly removing humidity, leaving your home feeling damp and uncomfortable.
How to Determine the Right BTU for Your Home
- Room Size: Calculate the square footage of the space you need to cool. Multiply the room’s length by its width to get the total square footage.
- Ceiling Height: Higher ceilings mean more air volume to cool, requiring a system with greater BTU capacity.
- Windows: The number, size, and type of windows in a room affect heat gain. Large, south-facing windows allow more sunlight to enter, increasing cooling needs.
- Insulation: Well-insulated homes retain cool air better, requiring less energy to maintain comfortable temperatures.
- Climate: In hot, humid areas like Florida, you may need a higher BTU rating to account for the added heat and moisture in the air.
BTU Chart for Guidance
Here’s a general guideline for BTU needs based on room size:
- 150–250 sq. ft.: 6,000–8,000 BTU
- 300–400 sq. ft.: 10,000–12,000 BTU
- 500–600 sq. ft.: 14,000–18,000 BTU
- 800–1,000 sq. ft.: 20,000–24,000 BTU
Consulting a professional to assess your home’s specific cooling needs can ensure you select the right-sized system for optimal comfort and energy efficiency.
What About the SEER Rating?
Another numeric unit that you’ll see on air conditioners is the SEER rating. The term stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio and is a measurement of how energy efficient the AC unit is. How are these numbers determined? The output in terms of cool air and the amount of energy used by the air conditioner are measured over a year and then averaged to come up with the SEER rating. The higher the number, the more energy-efficient the air conditioning system is. While this translates into lower energy costs, it also means that the AC unit will cost more to purchase upfront. However, over time this balances out, and you’ll end up saving money on your electric bills.
Don’t Forget About Maintenance
In addition to the other important factors, maintenance is also something to consider when choosing an air conditioner. While every option requires some maintenance, it varies depending on the unit. For example, if you have a mini-split, you’ll need to vacuum around it to remove any built-up dust and debris, while with a central air conditioner, you’ll have to make sure that the area around it is clear of rocks and grass, as well as change the air filter regularly. It’s up to you to decide just how much upkeep you’d like to do on your AC unit so that you choose one that fits your needs.
Unit Price and Installation Costs
One thing that will fluctuate over time is the unit prices of the air conditioners, as well as the overall installation costs. Obviously, during the winter months when Florida enjoys cooler temperatures, you’re more likely to pay a little less than you would in the warmer months when air conditioners and their related installation services are in demand. Always factor in long-term energy savings and maintenance costs when budgeting for a new unit.
Contact Natal Air Conditioning
Of course, you may need some guidance when it comes to choosing your new AC unit. If you have any questions about seer rating, maintenance costs, extra features, and more, reach out to the experts at Natal Air Conditioning. Our team can help you choose the right unit to keep you cool and install it, so you can stay cool, comfortable, and worry-free. Call Natal Air Conditioning today!
