I am looking to install an air conditioning unit this summer, but I'm not sure what my options are. What should I consider before I buy?
Rita J. emailed us at expert@sweetspot.ca, and and Dave Walton, Director of Home Energy at Direct Energy, answered;
Just like buying the perfect suit, dress or shoes, size is the most important factor in finding the air conditioner best suited to your needs. In this case, it’s the size of your home. First, contact a licensed heating, ventilation and air conditioning professional who can help gather the information needed to determine the system that's best for you.
Determining factors include:
- Square footage and age of home
- Type and age of windows
- Number f south- and west-facing windows
- Insulation
- Number of mature trees providing shade for your home
- Placement of the outdoor component of the unit - a unit placed in a sunnier location will have to work harder.
A properly sized central air conditioner will not only keep you cool as a cucumber, but its improved energy efficiency may also shave a few dollars off your energy bills.
Energy Efficiency: Check the SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) rating. A 13 SEER rating can deliver as much as 28 per cent more efficiency than an older 10 SEER air conditioner. Looking for the Energy Star label will also help ensure you’re making an energy-efficient choice. Depending on the unit you buy and where you live, you may be eligible for rebates from your local utility, municipality or provincial government.
A few additional tips to keep your cooling system working efficiently:
- Setting your programmable thermostat five degrees warmer at night, and during the day when no one is home, could save you as much as 10 per cent on your energy bill.
- Keeping the top of the unit unobstructed will help keep your outdoor unit working at optimum level.
- Keep your vents unobstructed so that your cooling system can provide even air distribution. Close vents in lesser used rooms so that you're not spending money cooling those spaces.
Once your new system is installed, sit back and enjoy one final benefit: a reduction in outdoor noise. The closed windows will make your home a cool and relaxing sanctuary over the summer months.
With more than 27 years of experience, Dave Walton provides homeowners with advice and tips to improve the energy efficiency of their homes. For the past four years, Dave has served as Direct Energy’s Canadian spokesperson for energy efficiency ideas for the home. He has appeared on television morning shows and radio shows, and in newspapers and magazines across Canada.
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