Central air conditioner showdown: which is the king of cooling comfort?
What To Know
- Before you start shopping for a central air conditioner, there are a few things you need to consider.
- A unit that is too small won’t be able to cool your home effectively, while a unit that is too large will waste energy and money.
- You should have your central air conditioner serviced by a qualified HVAC technician once a year.
Choosing the right central air conditioner for your home can be a daunting task. With so many different brands, models, and features to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision.
Factors to Consider
Before you start shopping for a central air conditioner, there are a few things you need to consider:
- Size: The size of your home will determine the size of the air conditioner you need. A unit that is too small won’t be able to cool your home effectively, while a unit that is too large will waste energy and money.
- Efficiency: The efficiency of an air conditioner is measured by its SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the unit. A higher SEER rating will save you money on your energy bills.
- Features: Central air conditioners come with a variety of features, such as programmable thermostats, remote controls, and air purifiers. Decide which features are important to you before you start shopping.
- Price: Central air conditioners can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Set a budget before you start shopping so that you don’t overspend.
Top Brands
Once you’ve considered the factors above, you can start shopping for a central air conditioner. Here are a few of the top brands to consider:
- Trane: Trane is a leading manufacturer of heating and cooling equipment. Their central air conditioners are known for their durability, efficiency, and quiet operation.
- Carrier: Carrier is another well-known brand of heating and cooling equipment. Their central air conditioners are known for their performance, reliability, and innovation.
- Lennox: Lennox is a leading manufacturer of home comfort products. Their central air conditioners are known for their energy efficiency, comfort, and quiet operation.
- American Standard: American Standard is a leading manufacturer of plumbing and heating products. Their central air conditioners are known for their durability, efficiency, and affordability.
- Rheem: Rheem is a leading manufacturer of water heaters and air conditioners. Their central air conditioners are known for their performance, reliability, and value.
Installation
Once you’ve chosen a central air conditioner, it’s time to have it installed. It’s important to hire a qualified HVAC technician to install your unit. A professional installation will ensure that your unit is operating safely and efficiently.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance is essential to keep your central air conditioner running at its best. Here are a few tips for maintaining your unit:
- Change the air filter every month during the cooling season.
- Clean the coils on the outdoor unit once a year.
- Lubricate the moving parts on the outdoor unit once a year.
- Have your unit inspected by a qualified HVAC technician once a year.
Troubleshooting
If you’re having problems with your central air conditioner, there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot the issue:
- Check the air filter. If it’s dirty, replace it.
- Check the circuit breaker. If it’s tripped, reset it.
- Check the thermostat. Make sure it’s set to the correct temperature.
- If you’ve tried all of the above and your unit is still not working, call a qualified HVAC technician.
Summary
Choosing the right central air conditioner for your home is an important decision. By considering the factors discussed in this guide, you can make an informed decision that will keep your home cool and comfortable for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best SEER rating for a central air conditioner?
A: The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the unit. A SEER rating of 13 or higher is considered to be good.
Q: How often should I change the air filter in my central air conditioner?
A: You should change the air filter every month during the cooling season.
Q: How often should I have my central air conditioner serviced?
A: You should have your central air conditioner serviced by a qualified HVAC technician once a year.
