New Air Conditioning Installation Issues that can Affect Seer Rating
Your New Air Conditioning System: Four Installation Issues That Can Make or Break A SEER Rating
If you’ve just gotten a new high-efficiency air conditioner, you’re probably looking forward to equally high savings this summer. An air conditioner with a seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) in the high teens or low 20s can cost considerably less to operate than a SEER 6 system. But just buying a system with a high SEER rating doesn’t mean that your air conditioner will perform to that ideal once it’s in your home. Installation is key to realizing the full potential of your high-efficiency A/C. When you hire a contractor to install your new system, make sure he pays attention to the these four installation issues:
- Airflow: Without correct airflow, the desired temperature change across the evaporator cannot take place. Low airflow can be caused by poor duct layout, small ducts, restricted grilles and mismatched equipment.
- Refrigerant charge: The level of refrigerant in your system must be tested once the system is in your home. Either too much refrigerant or too little can undermine performance. In fact, an estimated seven out of every 10 systems have an incorrect amount of refrigerant.
- Ductwork: Your ductwork must be free of leaks to ensure the least amount of energy loss possible. An estimated 35 percent of a system’s cooling capacity can be lost via leaks and thermal losses.
- Sizing: Your installer should use industry-standard methods to determine your home’s cooling load and the size of your new air conditioner. He should consider factors including orientation of your home, local climate, number of people living in your home and the size of your windows. This will yield a size that’s exactly right for your home. A unit that’s too small will work too hard and develop problems. One that’s too big will cycle on and off too frequently, failing to properly dehumidify your home.
All four of these factors play an important part in how well your air conditioner performs. Ensure that your investment meets your expectations by getting expert installation from Gulf Coast Air Systems. We serve Tampa-area homeowners.
