If you are planning on installing a new air conditioning system in your home, it is important to acquire an energy-efficient model. This type of appliance will ensure that your electricity charges do not spike after installation. Also, energy-efficient AC units are more sustainable for the environment. On the other hand, you should note that efficiency is not determined by the AC replacement model only. There are some external factors which will affect energy consumption. You should understand these elements so that you will make changes before and during AC installation. Consider this short outline of the factors before beginning your AC replacement.
Structural Insulation
The insulation in your building will determine the efficiency of your new air conditioning appliance. If you have thin insulation on the walls and poor-quality glazing, your interior space will be more prone to heat gain from outside. In simple terms, the house will not be able to retain the cooled air. Your AC system will need to work harder than it would in a well-insulated home to maintain the desired temperature. Therefore, you should consider improving your structural insulation and installing double-glazed windows for better AC performance.
House Orientation
The orientation of the home in relation to the sun can affect your cooling needs. In general, the direction that your residential structure faces will determine the total heat gains. For example, if your house faces the west, you will experience significant temperature increase throughout the daytime. This detriment can be attributed to the fact that the temperature in the afternoon is high, and the sun will be facing your home from midday to evening. This orientation will force your air conditioner to experience higher cooling demands. Since this is an aspect you cannot change, consider installing shades or awning over the windows and doors facing the west. Also, position your air-handling AC units such that there are never in direct sunlight.
Existing Ductwork
If you are replacing your old air conditioner with a new alternative, you will probably want to use your existing ductwork. This choice is inexpensive and often effective. However, the condition of the ducts can affect the ability of the new AC equipment to perform efficiently. Therefore, you should have your HVAC contractor inspect the tubing for damage. If the ducts have perforation and broken sections, cooled air loss will occur. It is important to have the channels resealed. Also, you should replace the insulation around the ducts with alternatives with higher insulation rating.
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