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.
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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
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.
With that in mind, take note of how large your house (or the space you intend to cool) is, as well as things like windows and ceiling heights. The more windows and higher ceilings your home has, the more power you’ll need to keep it cool. This means that higher BTU air conditioners will be needed to keep your home at the temperature that you prefer.
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. These, on top of your overall budget, are things to keep in mind when making a decision.
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!
