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Don’t Fall into the Trap of Buying an Oversized Unit
Homeowners tend to keep their air conditioning units for a long time. Yet, if saving money is your goal, it could pay to weigh the operating costs of your aging, less-efficient unit against the savings of upgrading to a new, efficient unit.
Why Is a Too Big AC a Problem?
When you upgrade, avoid the common mistake of oversizing. Many people who have been struggling with an unreliable, older air conditioner model think getting a larger-capacity unit will make everything cooler. They believe that since the unit will not be stressed, they will save operating costs. Not so.
A system that is too large not only costs more but also takes longer to install. It operates inefficiently. A unit that is too large will break down more often and cost more to operate. Oversized heating equipment often creates uncomfortable temperature swings in the home.
And oversize air conditioners do not run long enough to dehumidify the air. This gives rooms a clammy feel and even permits unhealthy mold growth in humid areas.
Why You May Not Want to Buy the Same Size AC
Often, when replacing their system, homeowners simply buy the same size they had before. Many older units were sized before the era of tightly constructed homes. It was not uncommon to install systems that we used two to four times beyond the necessary capacity.
If you have added new windows, caulking, weather stripping, or insulation over the years, you might be better served by a smaller system than the one you are replacing.
How Can I Determine What Size Air Conditioner Unit I Need?
A popular formula used for correct sizing requires measuring walls, ceiling, floor space, and windows to determine room volumes. It considers your insulation’s resistance to heat flow and estimates air leakage with a blower door test.
A good estimate also includes an inspection of ducting and placement of the supply and return registers. Even the orientation of the house affects heat gain and loss.
Shortcut sizing methods are only useful to get a ballpark estimate. Sizing based on gross square footage is NOT a good way to size for a final choice. This doesn’t take into account design, construction, insulation, and other factors.
What Are the Benefits of Getting a New AC Unit?
Replacing your air-conditioning unit with a new, more efficient model can lead to a windfall of energy savings.
Other benefits include:
- Better airflow
- Improved comfort
- Improved indoor air quality
- Increased energy efficiency
- Reduced repair costs
- Increased home value
- Quieter AC operation
Why You Need to Choose the Best Company for Your AC Installation
If you choose the wrong company to size your home and install your system, it can lead to a long list of headaches. You need an experienced HVAC company like Black Hills. Contact us today to schedule an estimate.