Your home’s central air conditioning system is typically the second largest replacement cost, with your roof being the first. But, even if you spend several thousand dollars on the best system money can buy, that new air conditioning system could be a nightmare for its entire lifespan if it isn’t installed properly! Here are some tips to help you avoid common mistakes as you choose your new AC System.
Bigger isn’t always better. Make sure your AC professional does an “Energy Load Calculation” to identify the correct size system your home requires. There are many factors involved, such as your home’s insulation, R-values of your windows, and even whether there are trees that provide shade for your home during the day. A system that is too large will cool too quickly and do what’s known as “short cycle”, where the system will cycle on and off in short bursts and never eliminate the humidity from your home. This leaves you feeling uncomfortable all the time and you will regret your purchase throughout the life of the system.
Make sure your AC professional checks the size of your existing ductwork. If you live in an older home, it is very possible that your existing ductwork may be too small for the new, higher efficiency systems of today.
Ask the AC Contractor if your insulation is up to par. Again, if you live in an older home, it is likely that your insulation could stand to be upgraded. Sometimes your AC Contractor, like Air McCall, can handle the insulation upgrade at a reduced price if it is done in conjunction with the new a/c system.
Last, but not least, the technical expertise of the folks who install your new system is THE MOST IMPORTANT PART OF YOUR SELECTION PROCESS! If the Rolls Royce of air conditioning systems isn’t installed properly, it may run like an 8 cylinder car only using 4 of those 8 cylinders. So ask a lot of questions of your AC Contractor regarding the skills, training and character of the installation technicians.
