Air conditioner installation doesn’t have to be difficult, but you can’t simply throw in a new system and hope for the best. If you want the A/C to work efficiently in your Portland area home, you’re going to need a game plan. Let’s take a look at four factors that could dramatically impact your new unit’s performance and efficiency.
Airflow: Restrict it and your system’s performance will decline
If you want to get the most out of your air conditioner, achieving proper airflow is absolutely essential. Airflow can be impeded by restrictive or improper grilles, but it often comes down to a restrictive ductwork design or ducts that simply aren’t big enough. Another possibility is that your air handler has been mismatched with your other equipment or isn’t working properly.
Tight ducts: Improper sealing and insulation causes wasted energy
Leaky or poorly designed ducts are one of the main reasons that a new air conditioner installation won’t achieve its intended efficiency rating. Your ducts should be well sealed and insulated, especially where they run through unconditioned areas such as crawlspaces or attics. Poor duct design or incorrect sizing can also reduce your A/C’s efficiency.
Size: Oversizing and undersizing will both reduce efficiency
You’ll find that some HVAC technicians will oversize your air conditioner installation, figuring better to have one that’s too large than too small. Unfortunately, an over sized A/C will cycle on and off frequently, resulting in wasted energy, uneven cooling, and inadequate humidity control and air filtration. Your air conditioner installation should begin with a cooling load calculation, using the industry standard Manual J.
Refrigerant charge: The oft-neglected element of installation
Approximately 70 of A/C installations have an incorrect refrigerant charge. Both overcharging and undercharging are quite common, and can have a negative effect on your system’s overall performance. Make sure your installer charges the refrigerant precisely.
If you need more expert advice about your air conditioner installation, or for questions relating to home comfort, please contact us at Roth Heating & Cooling. We’ve been serving the HVAC needs of Portland and the surrounding area since 1976.
