Preparing for Your Big Day

Posted on: 20 July 2019

If your old air conditioning unit is struggling to keep up or is malfunctioning, it's likely that you're considering a new air conditioning installation. Before you buy a new unit, though, there are a few things that you should consider. Planning properly in advance can help to ensure that you get the right unit and are happy with the long-term benefits from your HVAC system. Here are some of the things that you need to think about as you prepare for AC installation services.

What Size Unit Do You Need?

Getting the wrong size AC unit can leave you either struggling to keep your home cool (if the unit is too small) or dealing with an air conditioner that power-cycles (if it is too large). The best thing to do is to start by assessing the size rating of the unit that's already installed and consider its performance.

If that unit has fared well for keeping your home cool in the past, you can opt for a unit of a similar size. However, if it struggled to keep your home cool on the hottest days of the year, you may want to install a larger condenser unit this time. Your AC installation tech can help you choose the right size for your home based on the total square feet as well as the general layout.

How Are Your Existing Ducts?

Before any kind of AC installation, you should have your air ducts inspected and thoroughly cleaned. Cleaning removes any mold, mildew, or accumulated particles that may have settled in the ducts. Inspection is essential because it will identify any potential air duct damage or leaks that need to be repaired.

Leaky air ducts lead to inefficient air conditioning. You will lose cold air as the air travels through those leaky areas, causing your air conditioning to have to work harder. While you're dealing with the ducts, talk with your air conditioning installation technician about insulating those ducts as well. This can help you avoid temperature loss as the air travels.

What Kind Of Filter Do You Want?

Air conditioning units come with two different types of filters. You can opt for reusable filters that require you to remove, clean, and reinstall them once a month, or you can opt for disposable filters that you simply replace them monthly to keep the air drawn into the unit as clean as possible.

What Type Of Thermostat Will You Use?

When you are installing air conditioning in a home that's already had an established system, you also need to think about your thermostat. Do you want to keep the thermostat you've been using? If so, you need a new air conditioner that is compatible. If not, you have the opportunity to upgrade to a newer thermostat with added features if you wish. This is the time to decide before you settle on a new unit to install.