Here's How to Handle a Professional A/C Installation

April 16, 2015

When you're shopping for a new A/C system, you may be under the impression that the efficiency rating is the most important criteria needed for a successful installation. The truth of the matter is that a professional A/C installation is a process involving many factors that are equally important in order to maximize your home cooling investment. Here's how it's done:

A/C Size

The goal of sizing a new A/C is to match the A/C tonnage to the home's cooling load. The cooling load is determined by measuring and calculating dozens of heat gain/loss parameters as outlined by Manual J from the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA). A few of the parameters include number of occupants, window number and size, sun orientation, insulation and sealing, and much more.

Proper Ductwork

The air ducts are a good example of why all factors of professional A/C installation are important. If the ducts aren't sized correctly, designed right and sealed tightly, you won't get very good performance out of your new A/C no matter how efficient it may be. In fact, Energy Star states you lose as much a 30 percent cooling efficiency with poor duct design. Ducts should be located within the conditioned spaces and sealed with approved materials and equal return ducts to supply ducts.

Airflow Evaluation

Airflow is essential to A/C performance and efficiency. The blower motor is calibrated to ensure optimal air movement across the evaporator coil. One of the nicer advanced features available for A/Cs is a variable-speed blower (which would also go nicely with heating efficiency and comfort). Variable-speed blowers adjust on the fly to meet and maintain thermostat temperature for smooth air conditioning.

Refrigerant

New A/Cs use ozone-friendly R410A refrigerant (Puron), which is also more efficient than the outdated R-22 (Freon). To maximize the cooling capabilities of high-efficiency refrigerant, coil designs have been improved, and variable-speed compressors are gaining popularity. One of the installation checks your HVAC pro performs is measuring refrigerant charge and checking for leaks.

For quality and professional A/C installation in your greater Des Moines home, please contact Lozier Heating & Cooling. Our goal is to help educate our customers in the greater Des Moines, Iowa area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Credit/Copyright Attribution: "3Dalia/Shutterstock"