How to Install an Air Conditioner
Air conditioners help reduce allergens like dust particles, pet dander and mold spores. They also remove excess moisture and keep temperatures stable, keeping you cool and comfortable.
A home’s air conditioner uses a chemical looping system to regulate indoor temperature. The system’s components include an outdoor compressor & condenser and an indoor evaporator coil.
Cost
Typically, the cost of a new air conditioner varies by size and efficiency rating. A unit with a higher SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating will be more expensive upfront, but will save you money on energy bills in the long run.
Having an air conditioner in your home is also important for security reasons because it keeps you safe from heatstroke and other health problems. It can also help you avoid getting robbed as it will keep criminals from breaking into your home.
A new AC unit will need to be installed by a professional, which will add to the overall cost. The cost of the installation will vary, but it’s important to Air conditioner find a reputable and licensed HVAC technician who will complete the job safely and efficiently.
Another factor that affects the cost of an air conditioning unit is its cooling capacity. Make sure to research how many square feet the unit can cool to ensure it’s enough for your home. Buying an air conditioner with a lower cooling capacity than your home needs can result in a lack of comfort, high energy bills, and short system life.
New AC units must be ENERGY STAR certified to qualify for tax rebates and other discounts. Be aware that manufacturers are phasing out the use of R-22, an ozone-destroying refrigerant. Check with your local government and utility company for more information about available incentives.
Energy Efficiency
Air conditioners use a special chemical called refrigerant to remove heat from indoor air and transfer it outside. The more energy efficient the air conditioner, the lower your cooling bills will be. Newer models are far more efficient than older ones, saving 30% to 50% of cooling energy costs. Air conditioning efficiency depends on proper unit sizing and installation, as well as insulation and ductwork.
The best way to evaluate energy efficiency is to compare the SEER rating of different units. This is the ratio of how much heat an AC unit removes per watt of power it uses. For room air conditioners this is called EER, and for central air systems it’s called SEER. The higher the SEER, the more energy efficient the air conditioner.
However, there are other important considerations when shopping for an air conditioner. One is whether the unit is Wifi-enabled so that you can control it from a smartphone app. This can be helpful if you have multiple air conditioners or live in a large home, but it will increase the upfront cost.
Other features to consider are quiet operation and humidity control. The latest air conditioners are designed to operate very quietly with low humidity levels. Additionally, many manufacturers offer rebates on new air conditioners that are more energy efficient than previous models.
Installation
If you’re installing a new air conditioner that uses a split system, the installation process begins with an in-home visit from an estimator. This allows the estimator to determine what size air conditioner your home needs and make sure your existing equipment can support the new AC unit.
Once the estimate is completed, your GE Brazil contractor will schedule your installation. Before the team arrives, you should receive a call or text message letting you know they’re on their way. This is an important safety and comfort feature, as you’ll know who’s coming into your home. Good companies also provide pictures accompanied by bios for the team that’ll be working at your home.
When the installation team arrives, they’ll remove your old air conditioner and set it on a composite pad. This pad is designed to last longer than concrete pads, which can crack over time. The installers will then set the new air conditioner in place and connect it to the service valve. This process involves melting the copper line set and a filler rod to create a leak-free connection.
Once the air conditioner is set in place, the installers will use L-brackets to secure it to the window frame. These brackets are screwed into the bottom of the sliding windowpane’s sash, and one side screws into the lower edge of the window frame to hold the air conditioner in place. The installers will also seal around the window with foam weatherstripping, which protects against drafts and other unwanted air from entering your home.
Maintenance
Like any other equipment, air conditioners need regular maintenance in order to maximize performance and extend lifespan. Some tasks, such as checking refrigerant levels and assessing electrical components should be left to professionals who can identify potential problems before they become serious or costly. A warranty or appliance insurance such as Liberty Home Guard may also help cover costs and reduce repair bills.
Window-unit air conditioners and larger central air conditioners are exposed to the elements and accumulate dirt, pollen, soot, twigs, leaves and grime that can interfere with mechanical components or affect how cool the air is. Cleaning is essential to ensure the unit works properly. Check the fan Air conditioner distributor blades and remove any twigs or other debris that might cause damage when the unit is running. Clean the evaporator coils and condensate drain line to make sure they are free of algae or other grime that could lead to an unpleasant odor or allow water to leak out and stain your walls.
Homeowners should pay attention to energy usage and costs, as a drop in efficiency can indicate that a component needs to be replaced or is overworked. A professional service technician will be able to check the condition of the unit and make any necessary repairs. They can also provide information on how to keep the system in good condition between visits.
