Your air conditioning unit does much more than just push out cool air. Air conditioning systems today, especially high-efficiency systems, help control what’s known as IAQ or “Indoor Air Quality.” IAQ is a combination of cleanliness of the air (no dust or pollen), humidity, temperature control and odor.
When purchasing a new air conditioning or heating system, for your home or business it’s important to consider how it will affect your overall comfort in addition to its ability to heat or cool. Here are three things you can look for that will help you stay comfortable.
When it comes to cooling your home in some regions of the country, humidity control is as big of a problem as high temperatures. Unlike the arid Southwest, the Southeast and parts of the Midwest have very high humidity in the summer months and this can result in higher than necessary energy bills if you aren’t careful.
Unlike vowing to eat better or lose weight, resolving to make your home more energy efficient is an easy commitment. You’ll not only save money, but also feel more comfortable at home throughout the year.
At the end of the day, this is a decision you make based on your preferences, immediate needs and purchase ability. If health and safety are an immediate concern you might consider purchasing one or more window air conditioning units to buy some time until you get your central AC replaced.
The major driver behind the price you pay for an air conditioning and heating system is based on efficiency Energy efficiency is measured by SEER ratings (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio). The higher the SEER, the more efficient the system, with SEER ratings higher than 16 being considered high efficiency.
One of the most important factors in achieving satisfaction with your air conditioning replacement is the selection of the right contractor. Even the best equipment will not provide you comfort if it is not sized and installed properly. There are several organizations which certify AC technicians like NATE and ACCA.
One of the quickest and simplest ways to reduce energy costs is to use a programmable thermostat. There are many varieties of thermostats available today with a host of features, but the one that provides the bulk of the energy savings is the programmable feature.
In many cases, your original air conditioner and gas furnace were installed as a matched set. When one needs to be replaced it doesn’t necessarily mean you have to replace both, but it’s a good time to start thinking about your options.
