what do i need to know about central air conditioning

• Efficiency. This describes how much cooling the unit delivers for each watt of electricity. Efficiency is expressed as the seasonal energy-efficiency rating, or SEER.
• Maintenance. Central AC systems need regular maintenance for optimal performance. When you negotiate your installation, it's worth negotiating a service plan that combines regular inspections with discounts on repairs and ...
• Programmable thermostats. Setting your smart or programmable thermostat at the right temperature can reduce your cooling costs by about 10 percent.
• Upgrading an existing system. If you’re upgrading your central air, don’t assume you should buy the same-sized system. ...

How to install central air conditioning?

• If you’re installing central air conditioning in a new build, you’ll need to choose a thermostat.
• If you’re installing central air conditioning into an existing home, you may need to upgrade the thermostat to one that can control cooling as well.
• This is one step of the process that’s a great place for a little DIY effort. ...

How does a central air conditioning system work?

• Cold refrigerant is pumped through the evaporator coil. ...
• Hot, low-pressure refrigerant gas moves to the compressor, which increases the pressure and temperature of the gas.
• Hot, high-pressure refrigerant gas moves to the condenser. ...
• The liquid refrigerant flows to the expansion valve, which regulates how much refrigerant gets through to the evaporator. ...

How does a central air conditioner work?

How Does Central Air Conditioning Work? Central air conditioning helps keep your home cool and reduces humidity levels. By transferring heat from air located inside your home to the outside, conditioned and cooled air is left to be re-circulated. Using electricity as its power source, the compressor inside an air conditioning unit pumps coolant ...

What is centralized air conditioning system?

To many people, central air conditioner is an integrated indoor temperature control solution. Compared with the traditional split air conditioner, it has higher efficiency, lower energy consumption, and at the same time, it can save indoor space and maintain the integrity of the interior decoration.

Is it worth it to get central AC?

Central air conditioning gives you the comfort of temperature control more efficiently than a window unit. A window unit can cool a single room fairly well, but if you need a few throughout the house, the energy costs can stack up fast. Central air also provides you with improved air quality in every room.

What do I need to know before buying an air conditioner?

7 factors to consider before buying an air conditionerCapacity: The size of the room or house and the limit of cooling determines the size of the air conditioner that you want to buy. ... Energy efficiency: ... Split or window AC: ... Air quality: ... Cooling speed: ... Price: ... Installation and maintenance:

What is the most efficient way to use central air conditioning?

"Air-conditioning systems run most efficiently when they're running at full speed," she explains. So while your unit might make more noise initially cooling a space down from 80 to 75 degrees, running all day at a less powerful speed requires more energy overall.

What is the 3 most important factors for an AC unit?

The Big Three You want to look at the AC unit's power, energy efficiency, and noise. There are many kinds of air conditioning units that can fulfill your cooling needs, but you should be able to narrow down the ones which can work the best for you.

What month is best to buy an air conditioner?

When Is the Best Time for Air Conditioner Sales? Especially for central air conditioning sales that require installation by a HVAC professional, the best time to make the call is during fall through spring.

Which type of AC is best for home?

As compared to a normal air conditioner, an inverter AC offers better, more consistent cooling. This type is also more energy efficient and quieter too.

Does Central AC use a lot of electricity?

The electrical usage per central air conditioning unit ranges from 3,000 to 5,000 watts per usage hour. The average central air conditioning units use 3,300 to 3,500 Wh, and these AC units weigh about 2,000 to 2,500 pounds. These watts per hour are based on the AC running on the cool setting.

At what temperature outside should you turn on the AC?

So when can you turn on your air conditioning? A standard system that has the proper refrigerant charge and correct airflow (from good ductwork and a proper fan speed setting on the indoor furnace or air handler) can be turned on at outdoor temperatures at or above 65 degrees.

Is it better to leave AC on auto or on?

The “On” AC Setting Is Best If: If evenly distributed air temperature and quality throughout your home is your top priority, keeping your AC set to “On” will be best. When you have someone home all day or suffer with allergies, prioritizing your comfort is important, and setting your AC to “On” will help in the summer.

What size AC unit do I need for my house?

Step 5: Match your square footage to an HVAC size chartHome Sq FootageAir Conditioner Size (tons)600 - 1,000 square feet1.5 tons1,000 – 1,500 square feet2 tons1,500 – 2,000 square feet3 tons2,000 – 2,500 square feet4 tons1 more row

How many ton AC do I need?

To estimate your AC tonnage needs, multiply the number of square feet you're cooling times 25. This equals the total number of BTUs you need to adequately cool your space. Next, divide that number by 12,000 to determine the tonnage capability you need in your new air conditioning unit.

What are the factors you will consider in choice of air conditioners?

4 Important Factors to Consider When Choosing an AC SystemEfficiency & Cost. One of the most important things to remember when purchasing an AC system is that it's an investment for your family and home. ... Comfort & Practicality. ... Taking Control of your AC System. ... Reliability.

How does an AC system work?

This system is the foundation of how AC systems still work today. 2. An air conditioner works by removing heat from one environment and moving it to another. Most central air conditioners have an inside and outside component. The compressor and condenser are outside, and the evaporator is in the inside unit.

Where does refrigerant come from in an AC unit?

Inside your home, where the heat is to be removed, the refrigerant is congealed as a high-pressured liquid inside the evaporator coil of your air conditioning unit.

How hot is a programmable thermostat?

As a guideline, the programmable thermostat will keep the temperature inside your house about twenty degrees cooler than it is outside. So if it is eighty degrees outside, the thermostat will keep the temperature inside your home about sixty degrees.

How does an evaporator coil work?

Inside your home, the evaporator coil absorbs heat, then passes it via the refrigerant to the condenser coil in the outside half of the air conditioning unit. The condenser coil releases the heat that has been drawn from the inside rooms to the outside air. The refrigerant is then circulated to the inside again, to the evaporator coil.

What is the number for Ventwerx HVAC?

Give us a call at 408-422-2987 in San Jose or at 408-710-9595 in Morgan Hill for a free estimate.

What causes a condenser to work harder?

If brush, foliage, or shrubs grow too close to the condenser unit, debris can clog the intake fins. This will make your air conditioner work harder and be less efficient. Be sure to leave 24 inches of clearance on all sides for the condenser unit.

Why do we need air filters?

Air filters serve a few purposes. First, the filters keep dust and other particulate from amassing on the evaporator coil. This keeps the evaporator coil functioning properly. Secondly, changing the filters keeps dust and dander from being circulated throughout your home.

How is air conditioning measured?

Here’s what else you need to know. 1. Sizing it right is essential. Air conditioning is measured by the ton, which is the cooling energy released by a one-ton block of ice melting over the course of a day.

What should a contractor show you?

The contractor should show you a printout of a heat-load calculation for your house, which factors in such things as your home’s location, cubic feet of living space, number and size of windows, and orientation to the sun. 2.

Do I need ducts for my AC?

You don’t need ducts. If you have an old central air system or forced air heat, your contractor can connect new AC equipment to the ducts that already exist inside the walls and floors of your home. Old ducts aren’t necessarily good ducts, however.

Do I need a filter for central air?

But you do need a filter. Do not install central air conditioning without adding a high-efficiency filter to the system. By cleaning the air as it moves through the system, it will reduce pollen and dust in the air inside your house—and it will help keep the inner workings of your AC equipment clean and efficient.

Can central air change your life?

Let’s face it—central air conditioning will change your life. No more sweaty nights tossing and turning because you haven’t installed the window units yet. For that matter, no more installing the window units—or bashing your knuckles carrying them up and down the basement stairs each spring and fall.

Can a broken AC unit be an emergency?

A broken air conditioner on a hot summer day can turn a situation from uncomfortable to an emergency. Many homeowners around the country rely on central air conditioners for home comfort throughout the year. Click your state to get A/C repaired. Here’s what else you need to know.

Can you have ductless air conditioning in the attic?

Or you can opt for ductless air conditioning: Unlike central air conditioning, which has one or two central blower units (usually in the attic) that push air through ducts, these systems have individual blower units that usually get installed on the house’s perimeter walls.

What is the most common type of central air conditioning system?

Central Air Conditioning Types. The most common type of central air conditioning is the split system, which features a large, boxy condenser outside the home and a fan-and-coil system inside, connected by pipes carrying refrigerant. The air is distributed through ductwork. However, not every home can accommodate the ductwork needed ...

What temperature should I set my central air to?

The right temperature varies on your comfort level, but start by setting it at 78° F and experiment until you find the sweet spot. You’ll save about 3 percent on your utility bill for every degree you raise the set temperature for your central air, according to the Department of Energy.

How does a central air system work?

A true central air-conditioning system uses ducts to distribute cooled air throughout the house. In a “split system,” the most common design, refrigerant circulates between an indoor coil and a matching—meaning from the same brand—outdoor condenser with compressor (see illustration, below). The refrigerant cools the air, dehumidifying it in the process; a blower circulates air through ducts throughout the house. A thermostat maintains the temperature at the setting you select. A variation is the “ heat pump ,” a type of system that functions as heater and air conditioner.

How much more efficient is a new air conditioner?

New systems are 20 to 40 percent more efficient than minimum-efficiency models made even 10 years ago. Costs will vary and can depend on whether you need ductwork installed, and the particular size and configuration of your home. Reliability Ratings for Central Air Conditioning.

Why seal ducts?

Sealing your ducts will keep you cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. That’s why it’s called duct tape, not duck tape. Outdoor checks.

When is the best time to replace a central air system?

With summer just around the corner, now is a good time to think about replacing your central air conditioning system, or installing a whole new one. More than 75 percent of U.S. homes use air conditioning, and 90 percent of new homes are equipped with central air. And eco-conscious consumers will be gratified to know that today’s air conditioners are more energy-efficient, which means they cost less to run while keeping you cool and comfortable. Of course, installing or replacing central air can be a huge expense, so you'll want to get it right.

Can you install central air in a split ductless system?

The air is distributed through ductwork. However, not every home can accommodate the ductwork needed to install central air. Split ductless systems are an option for those homes because, as the name indicates, they don’t require ductwork.

What is the main component of an AC?

A key component to your AC is the evaporator coil that is the part of your air conditioner that is inside your home. Refrigerant resides inside these coils, which is used to absorb heat from warm circulating air. Once the heat is removed from your home, the refrigerant returns back to the evaporator coils.

When selecting an air conditioner, an engineering analysis should be performed?

This will provide your contractor with proper numbers that will help them recommend the right AC for your home .

How does a condenser work?

This heated refrigerant is then pumped to the condenser or outside portion of your air conditioner. The condenser blows outside air across a different set of coils, which removes the heat from your home that was absorbed by the refrigerant, before the refrigerant is sent back into the home.

What is an indoor unit?

The indoor unit is the head, which contains an evaporator coil and a fan. A ductless split system can have multiple heads to provide heat or cooling to various parts of your home. The indoor heads can be installed on a wall, floor or ceiling.

Why are air filters important?

By preventing dirt and dust from entering your equipment, air filters help to ensure that your system isn’t putting in overtime to keep your home comfortable. These filters also help to remove pollutants from the air, maintain good air quality in your home, and make sure the air you and your family are breathing is cleaner.

How long does an air conditioner stay on?

In this case, the air conditioner will remain on until the desired temperature is met. It will continue to cycle off and on in an effort to maintain your temperature.

How to keep AC cool in summer?

Use ceiling fans. Ceiling fans can help to keep your home comfortable and take some of the pressure off of your AC by keeping the cooled air circulating throughout your home. During the summer, make sure that your fan is set to spin counter-clockwise for maximum cool air distribution. Close your curtains and blinds.

What is an air handler?

Air Handler. This indoor equipment has an expansion valve that turns refrigerant into a cold liquid that flows through the evaporator coils. A blower pushes air over the coils, which warm the refrigerant into a gas that goes back to the condenser.

How does a heat pump work?

The equipment looks like a straight AC system, and works the same way in summer. In winter, the refrigerant flow reverses and carries heat indoors.

What is the difference between a supply duct and a return duct?

Supply ducts distribute cool air from the air handler to the rooms in the house. Return ducts carry warm air back to the air handler to be filtered and cooled. When properly sized, ducts deliver conditioned air evenly and quietly throughout the house.

What is ECM in blower?

A blower with an electronically commutated motor (ECM) gradually ramps up to speed, reducing strain on the motor and consuming less power. In zoned systems, it dials back airflow to eliminate worries about frozen coils or a buildup of static pressure in the ducts.

Does a mini split have a central air handler?

There’s no central air handler with these systems (also known as mini-splits). Instead, refrigerant travels from an outdoor unit through bundles of skinny tubing to an indoor room unit, like the one above. Each unit has a fan, an air filter, a condensate drain, and separate controls, so each room becomes its own zone.

Why do we need central air conditioning?

Because they take up less room and are, well – centralized – in an out of the way space, central air conditioning systems keep your house decor clean.

How much does a central air conditioner cost in the Northwest?

In the Northwest central air conditioning system can range from $4500 to $8500. Because your system will have a bearing on your bills and comfort for years, trusted HVAC experts will help guide you to the best system for your home.

What happens if your air conditioner filters get dirty?

When air filters get dirty the air conditioner has to work harder, increasing operating costs and leading to costly repairs and shortening the life expectancy of the unit.

What is a heat pump?

Heat Pumps. A heat pump combines heating and air conditioning all in one unit. There are multiple fuel options for heat pumps – gas, electric, and dual-fuel. Heat pumps pull heat out of the outside air to heat your home and reverse the process when cooling your home.

What does a thermostat do?

When the thermostat senses that the room air temperature is too high it sends a message to the system to start the cooling process.

How does refrigerant travel outside?

Meanwhile, the refrigerant has been converted to a gas and travels outside where the compressor pressurizes the gas and sends it to the condenser coil. Here the outdoor fan disperses the heat into the outdoor air and the refrigerant becomes a liquid and goes back through the cycle again.

What is the job of a blower and evaporator?

This is the job of the blower and evaporator. As the warm air from your home is blown across the evaporator coils the refrigerant in the coil absorbs the heat turning it from a cold liquid to a hot vapor.

What happens if your air conditioner is too small?

If it's too small, it won't be able to cool your home properly during the summer, and the non-stop running will send your electric bills soaring.

Why is my air conditioner running so short?

If it's too big, it doesn't mean you'll be more comfortable. Oversized air conditioners can cool the area too quickly , which will cause it to run for a very short cycle. Therefore, the unit does not have enough time to remove humidity from the air, which can lead to mold and mildew problems.

How many BTUs per hour does a 2 ton air conditioner remove?

A two-ton air conditioner removes 24,000 BTUs per hour. When an air conditioner is listed by BTUs rather than by tonnage, it's usually referring to BTUs per hour, so the two measures are directly comparable if you multiply or divide by 12.

Why is humidity important?

One of the most important is where you live and your climate, as hot areas will have higher cooling demands, and your typical humidity also impacts the size and type of air conditioners that you should use. It's also important to evaluate your own home. For example, how much shade does it get, what type of roofing do you have, ...

Is AC size a science?

AC sizing is both an art and a science. Even if manufacturer guidelines provide a recommended size for your climate, they don’t consider your home's unique characteristics. Choosing the wrong size could cost you far more in added energy costs.

Types of air conditioning systems

Before sizing your air conditioner to your home’s needs, determine what type of system you want to install. There are a variety of cooling systems available, but we’ll cover the three primary styles below. (Looking for how to properly size a window AC ?)

How many BTU per square foot?

A BTU, or British Thermal Unit, is a rating that measures the energy your AC uses in one hour to remove heat from your indoor air. The BTU of your HVAC system should be based on the square footage of your home, insulation quality, climate zone, and ductwork.

Manual J calculation

A Manual J calculation is like an energy audit of your home. Who performs the Manual J calculation can vary depending on your region. In some instances, the HVAC company will complete the audit. It’s also possible for a general contractor or energy consultant to complete the work.

AC climate zones

While the square footage and makeup of your home will give you great direction on sizing your HVAC unit, we can’t forget climate.

Best HVAC size for your home

Choosing the right size air conditioning system for your home doesn’t have to be complicated.