Air Conditioning: Facts you should know before you buy.
Most homeowners buy central air conditioning for cool, quiet comfort when its hot humid outside. It solves the problems of:
* keeping traffic noise, dust and pollution outside;
* losing sleep because of a noisy window air conditioner;
* coping with those hot summer days.
Not all central air conditioning operates the same way, so you should be aware of the following situations and features for peace of mind before you buy.
1. If you want to enjoy your backyard in the summer, choose the right product and right location for your outdoor unit. To reduce cost it should be placed in the closest location to your furnace.
2. Don't buy an oversized central air conditioner. It will cool the air too quickly during short operating cycles and never remove the humidity. A properly sized unit will remove that cold, clammy feeling.
3. The following is a rule of thumb guidelines for sizing residential systems:
House Size: Size of Central Air System:
1,000-1,500 sq.feet 1½ ton
1,500-2,000 sq.feet 2 ton
2,000-2,500 sq.feet 2½ ton
2,500-3,000 sq.feet 3 ton
Keep in mind that this is only a guideline and that skylights, type of insulation, the number and size of south facing windows, protective shade trees etc. can significantly effect the size of system required. Another factor that must be considered is whether the duct system and furnace fan have the ability to handle the air flow needed for central air conditioning. The contractor will make the proper recommendation during the site inspection.
4. The efficiency of central air conditioning equipment is compared to using S.E.E.R. value. S.E.E.R. stands for seasonal energy efficiency ratio. The higher the number, the more efficient the equipment.
You're not buying an air conditioner, you're buying comfort!
Carrier is a trusted name in furnaces and other home comfort products. Read more about why we recommend Carrier products.
Asbuilt ClimateCare has a variety of air conditioners to suit your particular cooling needs. Click on any of the pictures for more information.