In most households, cooling is one of the largest energy costs, causing homeowners to spend more than $11 billion annually. Air conditioning accounts for approximately 6% of the total electricity. However, you can reduce the cooling cost by 40% or more by switching to an energy-efficient air conditioner. A newer model is more energy-efficient than an older one.
One of the biggest factors affecting energy consumption is the size of your new air conditioner. Although the SEER rating determines efficiency, the size of your unit also plays a role in its overall efficiency. Air conditioners sold in the U.S. are measured in BTU (British thermal units) and tons. The size of your new air conditioning unit is critical, as a smaller unit will use less energy than a larger one with the same SEER rating. Home Authority is here to help!
Cooling capacity
The cooling capacity of an AC is measured in tons. A ton of air conditioning power is equivalent to 12,000 BTU per hour. A three-ton AC does not weigh three tons but has a nominal cooling capacity of 36,000 BTU/hr. Therefore, a three-ton AC must cool at least 3,000 square feet of space.
Generally, homes in zone one may require a cooling capacity of 30 BTU per square foot. Zone three homes must remove only 20-24 BTU per square foot. Zone eight homes will only require twelve to twenty-two BTU per square foot. A three-ton unit would be necessary for a single-level home with a concrete slab. If you are not sure which zone your house falls into, consult with a heating and cooling contractor.
The cooling capacity of an AC in your house depends on many factors. One important thing to know is that the actual capacity of an AC is usually less than its nominal capacity. So, before buying an AC, ensure you understand its cooling capacity. It is not always enough to read the tonnage of the air conditioner. You must consider the size of your house and other factors when choosing the right AC unit.
Before buying an AC, you must first determine the square footage of the room where you plan to install it. Residential spaces are smaller than commercial buildings. It would be best if you also kept in mind that each window will face the sun. This can add 1,000 BTUs to your calculation. Furthermore, every kitchen in your house will increase the cooling capacity by another one hundred and twenty BTUs. You can select your house’s most efficient air conditioner with these factors.
Tonnage
One of the vaguest terms in the HVAC industry is “Air Conditioning Tonnage.” It has nothing to do with ink cartridges or printers. Tonnage is the measure of the air conditioning unit’s capacity. Understanding what it means can help you choose the right unit for your home. Here are some things to consider when choosing an AC unit:
Tonnage has nothing to do with weight. British Thermal Units (BTUs) measure the unit’s cooling capacity. One ton of AC removes 12,000 BTUs of heat per hour, while a four-ton AC removes 48 000 BTUs in a single hour. As such, higher tonnage means higher capacity. Look for the BTU label on your condenser unit to learn how to calculate tonnage.
Next, look for the outdoor condenser unit. It should be mounted outside. On the back of the outdoor unit, you’ll find a product information label with the model number and BTU/hr. Divide this figure by 12 to get the tonnage of the unit. One ton of AC means 12,000 BTU/hr of cooling capacity. Look for a sticker or tag on the unit with this information.
Finally, make sure the air conditioner has the proper tonnage. A home that needs more than a ton will run a higher energy bill. So, don’t go crazy and buy a ton of air conditioning. It may be worth the extra cost, but a weak air conditioner will not keep your house cool. If you’re unsure, consult a professional. So, now you know how to calculate the tonnage of an AC in your house.
Energy efficiency rating
The HSPF (heat pump-specific performance factor) measures efficiency over the entire season. It represents the number of BTUs a heat pump produces per kWh. An 8.5 HSPF means emitting approximately 8.5 BTUs per kWh of electricity. Some heat pumps can even have a higher HSPF than this. To choose the right AC for your home, it’s important to understand how it compares to the one you already have. Good maintenance of AC is good for your circulation system.
Cost
While there are many reasons for the cost of an AC in your house, there are some things you can do to reduce the costs:
- You should ensure that the ductwork in your home is sealed properly. Incorrect insulation or leaks can result in a high energy bill.
- A licensed technician should properly install the ductwork.
- AC units can last up to 15 years, but poorly maintained units can wear out much sooner.
- It is best to replace your air conditioner if it is no longer functioning or is out of warranty.
You can save money on installation costs by installing a brand-new AC yourself. However, finding an AC technician licensed in your area may be impossible. Additionally, you can avoid paying for an EPA-certified technician if you have an existing unit.
Split system ACs are more affordable for homes with furnaces and use the air handler already in the home. Compared to other types of AC, split systems require less maintenance and usually don’t need ducts. However, they are also more complicated to repair, and you will likely end up replacing the entire system in a few years. Therefore, you should consider the size of your house before you make the decision.
Final Take
When looking for an AC contractor, look for a company that has been in business for several years. This will make it easier to find a reliable contractor who offers affordable prices. Check out the contractor’s licence and insurance before making any major decisions. Also, ensure you can easily reach the company if you need to make any major decisions. It would be best if you never accepted an estimate from an AC contractor who offers you an estimate over the phone or based on your home’s square footage or existing equipment. An accurate estimate only comes after in-home measurements and inspection of your home.