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How to Do Air Conditioning Sizing Properly

9/28/2015

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​When it comes to air conditioner sizing, one size definitely doesn't fit all. It is important to consider several factors in order to ensure your home remains at a comfortable temperature all year long, that you aren't wasting energy and money, and that your unit will have good longevity. Choosing an air conditioner size that is too large forces your unit to run constantly in short bursts, which can cause the unit to burn out faster. Furthermore, if you unit is running in short busts, it allows heat and humidity to creep back into the house, which can cause damage over time. 

Selecting an air conditioner size that is too small wastes lots of energy and money, because the AC is constantly running to try to cool your home, even though it will never be able to properly do so.

​Now that you know the importance of properly sizing your air conditioning unit, you need to know how to figure out the correct size. 

Air Conditioning Sizing  You already know air conditioning units come in different sizes, but do you know how the size of air conditioning units is measured?

Central air conditioning units are measured in tons. This measurement is based on the unit's ability to cool your home. For example, a 1 ton unit will cool 12,000 BTUs (British Thermal Units) per hour. With every 1 increase in tons, the BTUs increase by 12,000. This means a 4.5 ton unit will cool 54,000 BTUs. If you aren't familiar with the term BTU, it means the amount of energy needed to cool or heat a pound of water by one degree F°.  

Most central air conditioning units used in homes range between 1-5 tones, and come in half ton intervals. For example, your home could use a 3.5 ton unit. Units over 5 tons are commonly used for commercial spaces. Even if you have a very large home or mansion, you won't use an over 5 ton unit. 

To calculate the size of the unit your home will need, you can use one of two methods. The first is to take the square footage of your home and multiply it by 25. Then take that number and divide it by 12,000 and subtract .05

((sq feet x25)/12,000)-.05= AC ton needed)

The other method is to use the Air Conditioning Square Footage Range by Climate Zone chart. Start by finding your location on the map of the US, which has been divided into five zones. Once you know your zone color, locate your home's square footage, and then you will find the proper air conditioning unit size. 

Consulting an Expert  If you aren't sure about air conditioner sizing for your home, you can always consult an air conditioning specialist. These specialists will analyze additional aspects of your home, including:


  • The size of the living space
  • When the home was built
  • If there is an existing ventilation and ductwork system, and how well it works
  • If your home has proper insulation
  • Which exterior and interior areas receive the most exposure to the sun
  • How much shade your home receives from trees and shrubs
  • How many windows your home has, which direction the windows face, as well as the age and condition of those windows 
Conclusion  Selecting the right air conditioner size is the best way to get started saving money on your energy bill. If you feel like your bills are too high during the summer, it could be because your air conditioner is the wrong size.

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Fall is here.  Anything I need to do with my AC unit?

9/28/2015

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When You Should Cover Your A/CThere is a reason to cover your air conditioner after the summer, and it's not just for the winter. As we said before, your unit is built to withstand the rain here in Florida, but it is not built to keep out leaves, seeds, or nuts.

Therefore, you might want  to cover your system during the fall only. When leaves or seeds get into your air conditioner, they can create a place where moisture collects, which then causes corrosion. It can even block up any moisture drainage your system has built in.

If you do cover your air conditioner, only cover the top of it. If you make your own cover, be aware that it should only come down the side about 6 inches. You don’t want to cover it completely, if you do, you are asking for trouble. A cover that completely covers your unit will trap moisture inside which then causes rust and corrosion.



Why You Don't Need To Cover Your Air ConditionerPeople often cover certain things around their home to keep the elements away. For example, swimming pools and lawn furniture, especially if a garage or storage shed is not available. But for those of you wondering if you should cover your outside air conditioner, it does not require a cover. 

Some people are under the impression that a cover will protect the air conditioner unit from:

Dirt

When on, the unit sucks in air, which also brings in the dirt. Once it is off, no dirt or other debris will go inside.

Rain in Florida

Outdoor cooling units are built to endure these weather conditions, which eliminates the need for a cover.  

Moisture

Moisture (water) can freeze the air conditioner’s condenser coils, which can cause damage over time. However, there is no way to keep moisture out 100% of the time. Either through the humidity in the air, or from the wind, moisture is sure to seep in. 

With a cover on your air conditioner you actually trap the moisture in, which can then create mold. You are much better off not using a cover for this reason.

Rodents

A cover will not keep small animals away, in fact, just the opposite. Animals want to get out of the upcoming cooler weather and your cover can provide them with a new winter home. Remember, rodents and other small animals are known for finding their way into very small spaces.

ConclusionRemember, your air conditioner is already built to protect against typical Fall and Winter conditions, no matter how mild Florida weather can be here.   Therefore, you do not need a cover for it for the reasons you might think. You only need to cover your unit in the fall, and the units that we install have attractive looking covers custom sized to work perfectly.

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    Author

    Dave, the owner of D & H loves to share industry news, topics, and new products to his customers.  Dave also likes to save his customers money with energy saving tips.  Please feel free to comment back to us and let us know what you think!

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