Finding the right residential central air conditioners can be quite challenging. Central air conditioning lasts much longer than any other air conditioning unit available and when shopping for one, you should be well informed. Here are 5 facts that will help you to be more knowledgeable of central air conditioning.
Fact #1
Residential central air conditioning is measured in SEER. SEER is an abbreviation for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. Basically the higher the SEER a central air conditioning system has the more energy efficient it is. If you can find a system that has the Energy Star logo on it, then that system has a SEER of at least 13, meaning that it is highly energy efficient compared to the standard central air conditioners.
Fact #2
All air conditioners can be rather loud; however central air conditioners seem to be loudest due to the size and capacity of the systems. Their noise levels usually range at 68dB and above. 68dB is actually really low for a central air conditioner. It will be hard to find anything lower.
Fact #3
Depending on what state you live in, you may be required to have a license or permit in order to install central air conditioning to your residence. In most cases, the contractor you hire to install the system is already licensed. It will be in your best interest to inquire about such details. It is also important to hire a licensed professional to install your central air conditioning system to assure that it will work properly and efficiently for many years to come.
Fact #4
Central air conditioners are typically either a packaged system or a split system. A split system has 2 cabinets, one that harbors the compressor and the condenser while another harbors the evaporator. Some split systems contain a furnace or heat pump as well. Split systems are the most common form of central air conditioning. A packaged system is one cabinet that contains the compressor, condenser, and evaporator. This cabinet is usually found on the roof which is why it happens to be more common in commercial uses than residential.
Fact #5
The lifespan of central air conditioning systems can range anywhere from about 10 to 20 years depending on the care it is given. Cleaning, replacing filters, and other routine maintenance is essential in keeping your central air running longer. It is also wise to have a professional check it every few years for problems.
Looking for residential central air conditioners can be quite frustrating. There is a lot to be knowledgeable about. It can also cost a pretty penny, but the benefits of having central air in your home are priceless. Keeping up with the care and routine of the system should be rather easy compared to taking care of any other kind of air conditioning unit especially if you hire a professional to do it for you. Central air isn’t nearly as high maintenance as other cooling units, such as a portable air conditioner. In the long run, you will be very happy having central air conditioning installed in your home.