Need a new AC this year? Here’s everything you need to know

When the heat of summer strikes, a reliable air conditioning (AC) unit can be your best friend. But with so many options on the market, buying the right AC unit for your home can be overwhelming. It's essential to understand the various factors involved in choosing the right unit, and it's just as important to separate fact from fiction when it comes to heat pumps, which are often misunderstood. Here’s a guide to help you make an informed decision.

To explore the different options and what you should consider before making a decision, we spoke with Alberta’s own Action Furnace to get the ins and outs of air conditioners and debunk some common myths about heat pumps.

1. Understanding your cooling needs

Before you start shopping for an AC unit, you need to assess the cooling needs of your space. The size of the area you're trying to cool, along with factors like ceiling height, insulation quality, and the number of windows, will all affect the size of the unit you'll need. An undersized unit will struggle to cool the space effectively, while an oversized unit will be inefficient and waste energy.

To determine the right size, many experts use a measurement called BTUs (British Thermal Units). The larger the space, the higher the BTU rating you’ll need. You can consult an expert at Action Furnace to get an accurate assessment of the cooling power your home will need to stay comfortable while running efficiently.

2. Types of AC units

There are different types of air conditioning units to choose from, each suited for specific needs:

• Central air systems: For cooling an entire home, central air conditioning is the most effective choice, but it can be a more significant investment and require complex installation.
• Split systems: These are commonly used in homes and consist of an outdoor compressor and an indoor air handler. They are quieter and more efficient than window units but can be pricier and require professional installation.
• Window units: Affordable and ideal for cooling a single room, window units are compact and easy to install. However, they can be noisy and less efficient compared to more modern systems.
• Portable AC units: If you need a temporary cooling solution, portable units are easy to move around and don’t require permanent installation. However, they are often less efficient and can take up valuable space in the room.
  
  

3. Energy efficiency

When purchasing a new air conditioner, energy efficiency should be a top priority. The more energy-efficient the unit, the lower your energy bills will be. Look for units with a high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating. The higher the SEER, the more efficient the unit.

Some newer models also feature inverter technology, allowing the compressor to operate at different speeds depending on the cooling needs, further improving energy efficiency.

4. The heat pump myth

Heat pumps are often confused with traditional AC units, but they operate differently. A common myth is that heat pumps only provide heating and are ineffective for cooling, which is far from the truth. Heat pumps are capable of both heating and cooling, making them an excellent year-round solution for temperate climates.

In the summer, heat pumps function just like air conditioners by removing heat from the air inside your home. In winter, they reverse the process, absorbing heat from the outside air and transferring it indoors. This dual functionality makes them energy-efficient, especially in moderate climates, where they can provide effective heating and cooling.

Despite their versatility, many people hesitate to invest in heat pumps because they are unfamiliar with the technology. However, modern heat pumps are highly efficient and increasingly popular due to their lower operating costs and eco-friendly design.

5. Installation and maintenance

Regardless of the type of unit you choose, professional installation is essential for optimal performance. Not only will a properly installed unit run more efficiently, it will also last longer.

Regular maintenance, such as cleaning or replacing filters and checking for refrigerant leaks, is crucial for extending the lifespan of your AC unit and keeping it running smoothly. While some units, like portable ACs, require minimal maintenance, others like central air systems benefit from annual check-ups by a professional technician.

Choosing the right air conditioning unit requires careful consideration of your cooling needs, the type of unit, energy efficiency, and debunking myths like those surrounding heat pumps. And if you need some guidance from a professional, get in touch with the team at Action Furnace for help understanding your options to make an informed decision to stay comfortable all year round.