4 Steps To Prepare For A New Air Conditioning Installation
For most people, the decision to purchase a new air conditioning system is simple: once your previous system stops working, there's no choice except to plan for a replacement. While deciding that you need a new system may not require much thought, choosing the best system for your needs can be a much more complex process.
If you already know it's time for a replacement, here are four steps to help you prepare for your new installation and choose a system that fits your requirements and budget.
Step 1: Check Your Current SEER Rating
Your air conditioner's SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) rating directly indicates its overall energy efficiency. If you don't have documentation for your old system, you should be able to find the SEER rating somewhere on a plate located somewhere on the outdoor condenser unit. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the system.
Knowing your current system's SEER rating can help determine how much a new system will reduce your utility bills. While modern systems will typically have higher SEER ratings when compared to older systems, choosing a system with a much higher SEER rating relative to your old system can mean greater savings.
Step 2: Clean Around Your Existing AC Equipment
Central air conditioning systems consist of indoor air handling and outdoor condenser units. Assuming your home doesn't need any ductwork replacements, a typical installation will involve replacing these two units and potentially installing new refrigerant plumbing. To make things easier for your installers, it's a good idea to spend some time cleaning around both units.
In particular, ensure a clear path to your air handler and plenty of room to work around the unit. This extra space will ensure your installation contractors can easily bring in your new equipment and remove your old unit.
Step 3: Schedule a Consultation
An initial consultation is important when making a major HVAC purchasing decision. This consultation will allow your contractors to perform a cooling load calculation (also known as a Manual J calculation) to determine the correct sizing for your new system. It's crucial to purchase a correctly-sized AC system to achieve the best possible efficiency and reliability for your new air conditioner.
Step 4: Work With Your Contractor to Choose a New System
Finally, you're ready to work with your contractor to choose a new air conditioning system. Your contractor can help recommend reliable brands, and you can use the information on your old system's SEER rating to help you decide on the appropriate SEER rating for your new system. An energy savings calculator can help you determine how much money you'll save with a more highly rated system.
By taking these steps, it'll be easy to select an air conditioner that can cool your home and help you save money on your monthly utility costs. Contact a local air conditioning installation service to learn more.