As the temperature rises and the sun beats down on your home, your air conditioning system becomes a beacon of hope for relief from the heat. But did you know that the size of your AC unit significantly impacts its effectiveness?

Not only can the wrong size unit leave you feeling hot and uncomfortable, but it can also wreak havoc on your energy bill. Figuring out what size AC system your home needs is essential to keep your cool and stay energy efficient.

Understanding BTU Outputs

If you're in the market for a new air conditioner or just trying to make sense of the specs on your current unit, understanding BTU outputs can be helpful. Here's a breakdown of what you need to know:

What is BTU?

BTU stands for British Thermal Unit, a unit of measure used to quantify heat energy. In the case of air conditioners, BTUs are used to measure the unit's cooling capacity. The higher the BTU rating, the more cooling power the air conditioner has.

Why are they used?

Knowing an air conditioner's BTU is essential to ensure you get a suitable unit for your home or space. If you have an air conditioner that is too small for your room, it won't be able to cool the space effectively, and you'll be wasting energy and money.

On the other hand, if your AC is too big, you'll be overcooling the room and wasting energy unnecessarily.

How to Check Your AC's BTU

To find the BTU rating of your air conditioner, check the manufacturer's sticker, which is typically located on the unit itself. You can also check the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer for the information.

Does One Size Fit All?

Unfortunately, the answer is no.

 

The BTU of your air conditioner depends on the size of the room you're trying to cool. Typically, AC units will recommend a specific BTU rating per square foot of space, so measuring your room is essential to get an accurate estimate.

Types of Central Air Conditioners

There are a few different central air conditioners to choose from when shopping for a new system. Each type has unique benefits and features, so it's important to research and decide which one is best for your home. Below are the most common types of air conditioners:

• Split System Air Conditioners - Split system air conditioners consist of indoor and outdoor units that work together to cool The home. These systems are typically paired with a gas furnace
• Packaged Air Conditioners - Packaged air conditioners combine the compressor, evaporator, and condenser into a single unit. They are usually installed on the roof or a concrete slab next to the building. They are ideal for commercial buildings, or homes that do not have a lot of indoor space.
• Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditioners - Ductless mini-split air conditioners are similar to split system air conditioners but do not require ductwork. They are ideal for small spaces and provide greater energy efficiency than split-system air conditioners.
• Heat Pumps - Heat pumps come in many shapes and sizes. They are essential an Air Conditioner that reverses the flow of refrigerant to provide heat in the winter. They can be configured as split systems, ductless, package units.

Understanding Energy Efficiency Ratings

In addition to BTU outputs, it's essential to understand the energy efficiency rating of the air conditioner you're considering. The higher the rating, the more efficient your unit will be, which means lower energy bills and less environmental impact.

 

Typically, air conditioners are rated with a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) ranging

from 15 to 21. The higher the number, the more efficient the unit will be.

Purchase Considerations

When it comes to purchasing an air conditioner, there are several factors that you should consider to ensure that you make the right choice.

Price Range

The price of air conditioners varies widely based on the type, brand and features. Window air conditioners typically cost between $ 150 and $800, while central air conditioning systems can cost several thousand dollars.

Financing

Some manufacturers and retailers offer financing options for air conditioners, which can help you manage the cost of a new unit.

Tax Credits

In some cases, purchasing an energy-efficient air conditioner may qualify you for a tax credit. The government offers tax credits for certain air conditioning systems that meet specific energy efficiency requirements.

Rebates

Some manufacturers or retailers offer rebates for the purchase of an air conditioner. These rebates can help reduce the cost of a new air conditioner. Make sure to check for any available rebates before making your purchase.

Now that you know the basics of air conditioning systems and their energy efficiency ratings, you'll be better equipped to choose the right one for your home. Schedule an appointment with a Proskill expert today, and we will help you pick the right sized air conditioner for your home.