When you’re thinking about replacing your old air conditioner there’s a lot to consider. You think about your budget, along with the size and type of unit. You may even be taking a closer look at your ductwork and wondering if it also needs replacing.
What you’re probably not considering are the must-have features for air conditioning systems—but don’t worry if you’re not sure what features an AC system can come with. However, if you’re planning on spending money on a new air conditioner it makes sense to take a look at its features.
AC Features You Want to Consider
Modern air conditioners can come with a range of features and some are must-haves. Here’s a look at some of the features you may want to consider before purchasing a new AC system.
Silent Operation
Okay, so no air conditioner is going to be completely silent; there’s always going to be a little bit of noise. What you don’t want is an air conditioner that sounds like an airplane taking off every time it kicks on or shuts down. There’s no reason an air conditioner should emit a ton of noise unless it’s signally there’s a problem.
Thankfully, you can find several units with a relatively low decibel rating. If you’re not sure what a decibel rating implies, the answer is fairly simple. The decibel rating refers to the amount of noise the unit makes. The higher the rating the louder the AC is when it’s on. If silence is a priority, look for an air conditioner with a decibel rating of around 50.
A Good SEER Rating
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio and it’s something you should pay attention to since the rating indicates efficiency. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy-efficient an air conditioner is, which means savings on your monthly utility bills.
Ratings for air conditioners are typically between 13 and 26. Anything at or above a 14 SEER rating qualifies for Energy Star certification.
If you’re trying to find ways to reduce the overall purchase costs, a good solution is to purchase an Energy Star-rated air conditioning system. You can usually get a tax credit for Energy Star-certified appliances like air conditioners. Yes, you can get some money back just by purchasing an efficient AC system.
If you live in an area where long, hot summers are the norm, you can also see significant savings on your electric bills with an Energy Star-certified AC.
Look for Variable Speeds
If you’re still dealing with an older model AC, it probably only has one speed. The AC unit is either off or running at full blast. While having an AC that kicks on at the highest setting will quickly cool a space down, it’s also incredibly energy inefficient. Sometimes, you don’t need or want your AC running at a high speed.
Modern AC systems typically have variable speeds, and this often means you can lower the speed and still keep your home comfortably cool. Even though the unit may run longer at a lower speed, you’re still using less energy.
To run at full speed even for a short time takes a significant amount of energy, and this can also place a lot of wear and tear on a unit, reducing its overall lifespan.
Customizable Zone Settings
Have you ever noticed how some rooms in your house always seem to be warmer than others? Your ductwork is in perfect condition, and you have the right number of vents and returns.
When rooms are warmer than others, it’s often due to what’s going on in the space. For example, your kitchen sees a lot of activity, and don’t forget about the stove, oven, and other appliances. Simply turning the oven on can significantly raise the room’s temperature.
Bathrooms are another area that always seems to be a little warm. Even one hot shower can heat the space for an hour or more. If you’re struggling to keep an even temperature throughout your home, you may want to look for an AC system with zoning capabilities. Doing so allows you to create zones with customizable temperature settings.
You can lower the temperature in the kitchen without dropping it throughout the rest of your home. You can even take zoning a step further and only cool rooms you use and block off the areas you rarely enter.
A Smart Thermostat
Yes, you can pick up a smart thermostat without replacing your air conditioner. However, if you’re already getting a new AC, you might as well include a programmable thermostat as a must-have feature. This is usually a little cheaper than purchasing the AC and thermostat separately.
Why do you want a smart, programmable thermostat? One reason is convenience, and the other is energy savings. Since the thermostat is connected to the AC and your home’s Wi-Fi, you can adjust the thermostat from any compatible device.
Yes, this means your smartphone and tablet. As long as the handheld device is connected to the thermostat, usually via an app, you can remotely control your AC system.
Along with a programmable thermostat, you may want to connect the AC to your smart home system. This way, you’re not entirely dependent on the thermostat’s app to control the AC. You can also take advantage of other features that are usually standard with smart home connectivity like energy usage reports and even trouble-shooting basic maintenance issues.
Onboard Air Filtration Systems
This feature can cost a little extra but for some homes, it’s well worth the added expense. Onboard filtration systems typically include HEPA, carbon, or ultraviolet germicidal irradiation (UVGI) filters.
These types of filters can effectively remove dirt, pollen, dust, and even bacteria from the air. If someone in your home has breathing issues like asthma, this feature can provide a little added protection.
Learn More About AC Features From the Professionals
Even if you have a pretty good idea of what features you want in an air conditioning system, it’s still a good idea to discuss your options with a heating and cooling specialist.
They can make recommendations and help ensure your new air conditioner comes with all of your must-have features. Their expertise can also help you avoid common pitfalls and make the most cost-effective and efficient choice for your home.
<p>The post What Features Should Your AC System Have first appeared on CCR-Mag.com.</p>
