Necessary Steps For A Successful AC Installation
Whether you are installing an air conditioning system in a new home or retrofitting a central air conditioning system to an old home, it is vitally important to be sure that the installation is performed properly. An AC system that is installed improperly will not only operate poorly, but it will also cost you a significant amount of money over the long term. Poorly-installed systems run inefficiently, costing you more money in utility bills every month. Even worse, an AC system that is not operating efficiently places a greater amount of strain on its components, inevitably leading to early failures and expensive repair bills.
Luckily, working with an experienced and skilled installer can help to guarantee that you don't face these issues. When searching for a contractor to install your AC system, be sure to ask about these important steps to ensure that the job is done right.
Proper Duct Sizing
Many homeowners are focused on the capacity of the outdoor unit and compressor, but duct sizing is equally important. Your ductwork must be able to handle the airflow that will be passing through it and it must be sized correctly to fully cool your home. Improperly-sized ductwork can lead to hot and cold spots throughout your home as your AC struggles to cool rooms that are located far from the blower. This also places additional stress on your compressor and can lead the system to freeze up and even lead to premature compressor failure.
When working with a contractor, always discuss their method for sizing your ductwork and their overall approach to designing the ducting system for your home.
System Sizing
Of course, the capacity of your compressor does matter as well. A compressor that is too powerful will cost you much more upfront and will potentially work inefficiently since it will cycle more often than is necessary. Likewise, a compressor that is too small will struggle to cool your home efficiently and will run far more often than it should. In the latter case, the compressor is more likely to fail prematurely, requiring expensive repairs or even a full system replacement. When determining the size of the compressor necessary to cool your home, be sure that your installer properly accounts for all sources of heat in the home, not just your total square footage.
Duct Testing
Finally, a skilled installer should always plan to have your ductwork tested during rough-in and before finishing. Even a competent installer can make mistakes and construction can lead to accidental ductwork damage. A duct test guarantees that no leaks were introduced and can help to locate them while the ductwork is still exposed and relatively easy to fix. Waiting until after your home has been completed can lead to serious issues, as the ductwork is now inaccessible and repairs are potentially very costly.
The key to a proper installation is working with a skilled installer and being sure to discuss your concerns upfront. With a little research and time spent planning, your new AC system is sure to provide you with years of efficiently cool air. Contact a company like Arctic Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, Inc. today in order to learn more.
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