Wherever you live in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex, a new AC system can greatly enhance your quality of life. No matter how high the outdoor temperature rises, you can enjoy the cooling comfort of an air-conditioned home. Proper installation is the key to getting the most from your new AC system. Equipment that’s installed incorrectly can reduce system efficiency by as much as 30 percent. When it comes to long-lasting performance, the way the system is installed makes all the difference.
Consulting the SEER
Thanks to advancements in HVAC technology, there’s never been a better time than now to purchase a new air conditioner. Today’s HVAC systems are up to 40 percent more efficient than those manufactured just 10 years ago. Air conditioners are rated by their seasonal energy efficiency ration, or SEER. The higher the SEER rating, the less it costs to operate the system. Reputable service technicians will explain the operating efficiencies you can expect from different SEER ratings.
All About Sizing
The most energy-efficient system in the world won’t deliver the reliable performance you want if it isn’t properly sized. An over-powerful system cools quickly but cycles off before the air is properly dehumidified. The result is a home that feels uncomfortably clammy and damp. An undersized system, on the other hand, has a tough time maintaining desired temperatures. It will run for longer periods and cost more to operate than a correctly sized system. Experienced service technicians take the time to get the size right.
Calculating the Cooling Load
Multiple factors come into play when determining the amount of cooling power you need. A good service technician will make a thorough inspection of your home in order to make an accurate load calculation. Parameters taken into consideration include:
- Your home’s square footage, layout and orientation to the sun
- The level of insulation in the attic, walls and flooring
- The number, size and type of your home’s windows
- How many people occupy your home at different time periods
Load calculations can also identify ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency. From sealing air leaks to adding attic insulation, some upgrades can reduce the size of the air conditioner you need.
Proper Placement and Positioning
Most residential air conditioners are split systems that have both indoor and outdoor components. To manage noise levels, a qualified service technician will ensure that the outdoor unit is installed away from bedroom windows. For optimal efficiency, it’s essential to make sure that there’s no obstruction to airflow around the equipment. Indoors, the thermostat should be positioned away from sunny windows or heat-generating appliances. Most importantly, the placement of the indoor unit should allow ample space for regularly scheduled preventive maintenance.
Ductwork Decisions
Whether you’re replacing an existing system or starting from scratch, proper ductwork design is critical. Ducts need to be positioned carefully for a robust air delivery in every living space. If you’re upgrading to a more powerful air conditioner, it’s important to ensure the ductwork can handle the additional volume. Upsizing the blower, replacing registers, and repairing leaky ductwork are just some of the techniques savvy service technicians employ. If the ductwork is for a new AC installation, you’ll want an HVAC contractor with design-and-build expertise. Ducts should be positioned for maximum efficiency and minimal intrusion.
NATE Certified Technicians
At Freedom Heating & Air, we make sure that every technician we employ is trained to install trouble-free cooling systems. Our certified professionals have proven their expertise by passing comprehensive examinations from the North American Technician Excellence (NATE) program. NATE certification is just one of the ways we ensure that every AC installation delivers top-quality results.
The techniques used during installation have a direct impact on the efficiency, reliability and performance of your new air conditioner. By following the industry’s best practices, we can ensure that your new system serves you well for many years to come. To learn more, explore our wide range of comfort solutions or call us today at (214) 306-8456.
