As the weather gets warmer, many people start to think about buying a central air conditioner. If you’re in the market for a new AC unit, there are several things you need to keep in mind in order to make sure you purchase the best possible unit for your needs. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll go over everything you need to know about buying a central air conditioner, from sizing and BTUs to energy efficiency ratings and more. By the end of this guide, you’ll be an expert on choosing the perfect central air conditioner for your home or business.
What is Central Air Conditioner?
A central air conditioner is a type of air conditioning system. It is typically used to cool an entire home or business. These systems are made up of two main parts: an outdoor unit, which contains the condenser and compressor, and an indoor unit, which houses the evaporator coil. Central AC units are usually connected to a duct system through which cooled air is distributed throughout the building.
How Does Central Air Conditioning Work?
Central air conditioners work by circulating coolant through a closed loop. The coolant picks up heat from the indoor air as it passes through the evaporator coil, and then releases that heat outdoors as it passes through the condenser coil. This process continues until the desired indoor temperature is reached.
Things You Must Know When Buying a Central Air Conditioner
When shopping for a central air conditioner, there are several important factors you need to keep in mind in order to make sure you purchase the best possible unit for your needs. Here are some of the most important things to look for when buying a central air conditioner:
Size and BTUs
One of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a central air conditioner is size. AC units are measured in tons, with one ton being equivalent to 12,000 BTUs (British Thermal Units). It’s important to choose an AC unit that is properly sized for the space you’re trying to cool. If your AC unit is too small, it won’t be able to effectively cool your space. Conversely, if your AC unit is too large, it will cool your space too quickly and will cycle on and off more frequently, which can lead to increased wear and tear.
The best way to determine the perfect size AC unit for your needs is to have a professional load calculation done. This process takes into account factors like the square footage of the space, the number of windows, the insulation level, and more. Once the load calculation is complete, you’ll be able to choose an AC unit with the appropriate BTU rating for your needs.
Energy Efficiency Ratings
When choosing a central air conditioner, it’s important to pay attention to the unit’s energy efficiency rating. The higher the rating, the more efficient the unit is. units with high energy efficiency ratings cost more upfront, but they can save you money in the long run by reducing your energy costs.
Some of the most common energy efficiency ratings you’ll see are the SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) and EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio). The minimum SEER rating for central air conditioners is 13, but units with higher SEER ratings are available. For example, a central AC unit with a SEER rating of 15 will be about 30% more efficient than a unit with a SEER rating of 10.
AC Unit Features
When shopping for a central air conditioner, there are several important features to look for. One of the most important features is a variable-speed blower. This type of blower allows the AC unit to operate at different speeds, which can improve energy efficiency and indoor air quality.
Another important feature to look for is a two-stage compressor. This type of compressor has two settings – low and high. Meaning that it can save energy by running the compressor at a lower speed most of the time.
Other features to look for include:
– The filter check light indicates when the filter needs to be replaced.
– A condenser fan motor that is designed for quiet operation.
– A corrosion-resistant cabinet that protects the internal components of the unit.
An Expert’s Opinion
If you’re still not sure what size or type of central air conditioner is right for your needs, it’s always best to consult with an expert. An HVAC contractor can help you determine the best unit for your needs and can even install it for you.
Benefits of Central Air Conditioner
There are many benefits that come with owning a central air conditioner. One of the main benefits is improved indoor air quality. Central AC units circulate and filter the air in your home, which can remove allergens, dust, and other airborne contaminants. This can lead to improved respiratory health for you and your family.
Another benefit of central air conditioners is that they are very efficient. As we mentioned earlier, central AC units come with energy efficiency ratings that range from 13 to 21 SEER. This means that they use less energy than other types of cooling systems. The result means you can save money on your energy bills.
Finally, central air conditioners are very quiet. Many units come with sound-dampening features that make them nearly silent when they are running. This can be a benefit if you have young children in the home who need to sleep during the day.
Popular Central Air Conditioner Brands
There are many different brands of central air conditioners on the market. But some of the most popular brands include Trane, Carrier, Lennox, Bryant, and Goodman. These brands offer a variety of models with different features and price points. So, you can find the perfect unit for your needs.
Conclusion
If you’re in the market for a central AC, be sure to keep the information in this article in mind. With so many different options on the market, it’s important to do your research before making a purchase. Once you’ve found the perfect unit for your needs, you can enjoy improved indoor air quality and increased energy efficiency in your home.
