Did you know that the size of the unit you choose to air condition your home is important? Probably, and most homeowners have a good idea what size is necessary to keep up with the demand for cooled air. The size can be determined fairly easily through measurements of BTUs or tons or the square footage of the home (one ton = 12,000 BTUs).
However, did you also know that if you can’t find the “perfect” sized unit it is better to choose one a bit smaller than to get a central air unit that’s too large? I didn’t know that, but I found this fact interesting. According to Don Vandervort’s HomeTips.com, if you select too large a unit it, “will cycle off and on too frequently, doing a poor job of dehumidifying the air…”
Good to know. You can also check the directory at Home Tips to find air conditioning contractors and repairmen in your area.
It’s also important to make sure duct work and insulation are in good shape and that air is able to flow. For example, it’s generally not a good idea to close off one room. Leave doors and vents open when possible so that air can flow freely, especially when it’s really hot or humid (or both).
If you think your central air conditioning unit needs repair or maintenance, have the following information readily available when you call heating and air services to ask for prices and details (be sure to ask for an estimate):
- How old is the unit?
- When was maintenance last done on the unit?
- Do you know the size, brand name, model number, and serial number?
- Did the company you are calling install the unit?
- Is it still under warranty?
- When was it last charged with coolant (if ever)?
- How would you describe the problem? (air is not cold, in all or some locations the air isn’t moving well, unit doesn’t kick on at all, you have noticed a leak, etc.)