Factors to Consider for A/C Installation Austin, TX
There are a few things to keep in mind before giving in to the temptation of A/C installation Austin, TX, which we will highlight below:
- The type of A/C system
- The size of the A/C unit
- Energy efficiency
- Warranties and service contracts
- Professional installation by a licensed contractor
Type of A/C System: Centralized or Split?
During A/C installation Austin, TX, the first thing you need to decide is whether you want a centralized or split air conditioning system.
Centralized systems are usually found in large commercial buildings and use ductwork to distribute cool air throughout the premises. Its benefits include evenly-cooled rooms and the ability to use a single thermostat to control the temperature of the entire building.
On the other hand, split air conditioning systems are composed of an outdoor unit (compressor/condenser) connected to one or more indoor units (evaporator). They are ideal for cooling small spaces and can be installed without major renovations. While small in size, split air conditioners can be very powerful and energy-efficient.
Size of the A/C Unit: BTUs and Tonnage
The size of your A/C unit is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs) per hour. A rule of thumb is that you need 20 BTUs per square foot of living space if you live in a hot climate, 35 BTUs per square foot for moderate temperature, and 10 BTUs per square foot for colder weather.
Another way of measuring the size of your air conditioner is by its tonnage, which is equal to 12,000 BTUs per hour. For example, a 1-ton air conditioner can cool a space of around 400 to 600 square feet. So, assuming your property is 1,500 square feet, you would need a three-ton unit.
A few factors can affect BTUs and tonnage:
- Climate – your climate will affect how many BTUs or tons your A/C unit should be.
- Heat Load – refers to the amount of heat generated inside your home by people, lights, appliances, and solar gain (heat from the sun).
- Insulation – well-insulated homes require less cooling capacity because the heat cannot escape easily.
Energy Efficiency: EER and SEER Ratings
When shopping for A/C installation Austin, TX, you will come across two energy efficiency ratings: the Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) and the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER). The EER rating measures how much cooling a unit produces divided by the amount of energy it consumes.
For example, a unit with an EER of 10 will produce 10 BTUs of cooling for every watt of electricity used. The higher the EER, the more efficient the unit and the lower your energy bills will be.
You should also look at the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER), which is similar to the EER but considers the fact that air conditioners don't operate at peak efficiency all the time. The SEER rating is considered the industry standard for rating energy efficiency that measures how much cooling a unit produces over an entire season divided by the amount of energy it consumes.
For example, a unit with a SEER of 10 will produce 10 BTUs of cooling for every watt of electricity used over the course of a season. The higher the SEER, the more efficient the unit and the lower your energy bills will be.
Warranties and Service Contracts
Before you make your final decision, ask about warranties and service contracts. Most air conditioners come with a manufacturer’s warranty, but it’s always a good idea to have a service contract in place. This will ensure that someone comes out to service your unit regularly and that any repairs are covered.
Professional Installation by a Licensed Contractor
Finally, we cannot stress enough how important it is to have your air conditioner installed by a professional. It is not a job for amateurs. A licensed contractor will be able to properly size your unit, install it according to code, and make sure that it is energy efficient.
Need Help with A/C Installation in Austin, TX? Covenant Air Conditioning & Heating is Here for You!
Covenant Air Conditioning & Heating is a locally-owned and operated business providing quality A/C installation Austin, TX for years. They offer free estimates on new equipment, and service contracts are available for all makes and models.
Contact (512) 515-6946 to book an HVAC appointment!