Are you considering installing a central air conditioning system in your home? Installing an AC unit is more complicated than it looks, and you can make several common mistakes during installation. In this blog post, we’ll cover all the factors to consider before buying an air conditioner, and some of the most frequent errors made when installing one.
Read on for tips on avoiding costly mistakes and choosing the right air conditioner for your home.
Common Mistakes To Avoid When Installing An Air Conditioning System
Avoiding mistakes when installing an air conditioning system is essential for correct operation and energy efficiency.
Buying An Air Conditioner That Is Too Big
An AC unit that is too large for the room size will fail to effectively cool and dehumidify the air, resulting in increased energy costs. To avoid this, it’s important to measure your home space accurately and purchase an appropriately sized unit.
Another common mistake when buying an AC unit is not considering factors such as energy efficiency ratings and maintenance requirements. A high-efficiency system can help you save money on your electricity bills. At the same time, low-maintenance units often require fewer repairs over time, saving even more money in the long term. It’s worth noting that purchasing a larger capacity model than necessary won’t result in improved cooling capacities or reduce running costs, only adding additional cost without benefit.
Finally, it’s important to pay attention to installation details – poorly installed systems can be inefficient when using power or consuming too much water for condensate removal, which are both costly error sources which could have been avoided if due diligence was taken beforehand with research or hiring professional assistance where required.
Using The Wrong Setting On The Thermostat
One of the most common mistakes when installing an air conditioning system is using the wrong setting on the thermostat. Setting it too low will use up more energy than needed while setting it too high can cause your unit to freeze and break down. To save energy and ensure efficiency, set your AC’s temperature slightly higher than you feel comfortable; 1-3 degrees Fahrenheit should do.
Additionally, consider investing in a programmable thermostat to control better how much power your AC uses per day or month. This device allows users to set their air conditioner to run only at home or during certain hours of the day. Proper implementation and usage will help keep your electricity bills in check while not compromising home comfort.
Neglecting To Maintain The Unit
Maintaining an air conditioner is essential for peak performance and efficiency. Do this regularly to ensure the entire system works properly and is up-to-date. Doing so can result in higher electricity bills, reduced cooling capacity, or costly repairs. Therefore, you should always include proper maintenance in any installation plan to help keep your air conditioning unit running smoothly for many years.
Regular air conditioner inspection should include checking filters, coils, cooling fins, blower fans and other components and having them serviced at least once a year by a trained technician. Additionally, it’s important to clean the interior of your AC unit regularly to prevent debris buildup, which can lead to serious problems with the condenser fan motor or compressor units, among others. These steps allow you to enjoy cooler temperatures during hot summer days without suffering from high energy costs due to neglected maintenance requirements.
Not Closing The Doors And Windows
Keeping doors and windows open while air conditioners run can be a major mistake. It also wastes energy and money, as the conditioned cool air will escape, increasing electricity usage. Keeping all doors and windows closed as much as possible when cooling your home is recommended.
Another issue with leaving doors and windows open is that it allows dust particles or other unwanted pollutants into the home, leading to indoor air quality problems. Additionally, this can increase strain on an AC system by making it work harder than necessary, which could lead to costly repairs in the future.
Choosing A Wrongly-sized AC Unit
This is a common mistake when installing an air conditioning system. Although the space size suggests a certain size, it is important to consider other factors, such as sun exposure, insulation and ventilation, before purchasing.
An AC unit that is too big will run inefficiently, while a unit that is too small will only be able to keep up with cooling demands. To avoid this problem, carefully measure the area and consult a specialist to help you select the right-sized unit for your home or office.
Incorrectly Positioning The Thermostat
One of the most common mistakes when installing an air conditioning system is wrongly positioning the thermostat. This can cause uneven cooling or heating, making it difficult to set the unit’s temperature accurately. It should ideally be positioned away from direct sunlight, drafts from windows or doors, and other heat sources such as a TV or radiator.
You should also carefully consider the height of the thermostat – too high and warm air will not reach it for accurate readings; too low and cold air could trigger false readings. The best location is typically at eye level in a central area of your home to ensure reliable readings are taken.
Incorrectly Positioning The AC Unit
Incorrect positioning of the air conditioner will make for an inefficient cooling system and lead to serious damage that is costly and time-consuming to repair. Ensuring the unit is placed away from direct sunlight and avoiding wind tunnels by properly positioning it off external walls are key steps in a successful installation. Additionally, mounting a unit too close to surrounding walls or obstructions such as trees can block necessary airflow leading to additional problems with both performance and maintenance.
To avoid this pitfall, research ahead of time on the best location for installation and professionals consulted if needed. A professional service team may also help identify any potential issues before they become bigger problems or during other repair work on adjacent elements of your home’s air conditioning system, such as ductwork repairs or window AC installation.
Improperly Insulating The Air Conditioner
This is an important factor to consider when installing an air conditioning system. Insulating air conditioners prevent heat transfer between the internal and external parts of the unit and outside environmental elements entering the space.
Insulation is necessary to ensure the AC operates efficiently and effectively and maximises energy savings. Installers need to use specialised materials such as foam or rubber insulation when insulating an A/C unit to reduce heat loss from within the system.
Not Installing A Programmable Thermostat
One of the most common mistakes when installing an air conditioning system is not installing a programmable thermostat. This device allows users to set their desired temperature and adjust it depending on the time of day, saving energy while still being comfortable. Not only can this lead to higher electricity bills, but it can also be detrimental to the environment due to unnecessary power consumption.
Homeowners must consider investing in a programmable thermostat to optimise energy efficiency, saving money in the long run. Additionally, having greater control over temperature settings at home allows one to experience greater comfort levels without necessarily consuming more energy than necessary.
Not Cleaning Or Changing The Filter Regularly
Refrain from regular cleaning and changing the air conditioning system’s filter to maintain the unit’s efficiency and lifespan. Failing to keep up with regular maintenance will reduce airflow, which in turn reduces energy efficiency and causes extra strain on components that may result in breakdowns.
Proper filter maintenance is essential, as clogged filters increase energy use by up to 15%. Dirty filters also allow dust, dirt, pet hair, mould spores and other contaminants into the air inside your home. Replacing your air conditioner’s filter every month or two during peak cooling season helps ensure optimal performance from your AC system and maintains indoor air quality.
How To Choose The Right Air Conditioner
To ensure your air conditioning installation is successful, choosing the right unit with the necessary features and energy efficiency ratings can save you a lot of hassle in the long term.
Assess Your Home Size
Accurately assessing your home size is the most important factor when choosing an air conditioner. Homeowners should consider the square footage and other factors, such as insulation and windows, to get the right system for their specific needs.
This will help ensure you only buy a unit that is too small or too big for your home.
Consider Your Budget
When installing an air conditioning system, it is important to consider your budget. The cost of the system and installation can vary greatly depending on the type of unit you choose.
Prices will also depend on brand, size and features. Research different options before ensuring you get the best value for your money.
Moreover, consider additional costs associated with ongoing maintenance or any upgrades you may need in the future.
Consider The Energy Efficiency Of The System
Choosing an energy-efficient air conditioning system is a must when installing an AC. An efficient system can reduce your electricity bills and help protect the environment. Look for units marked with the Energy Star label, as these will ensure maximum efficiency. Additionally, compare models from different manufacturers to determine which one will offer you the maximum electricity consumption and cost savings.
Air conditioners also come with different Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) ratings which indicate how much energy they consume during operation time. Choose a higher SEER rating unit to gain further energy savings over time. Finally, make sure you have access to any manufacturer’s warranties or guarantees just in case the system malfunctions at some point down the line.
Look Into The Maintenance Requirements
Maintaining an air conditioning system is necessary to stay in good condition and last longer. Regular cleaning, an inspection of different parts, and proper repair can go a long way in ensuring system maintenance.
It’s important to monitor potential signs of wear and tear that could occur over time so that you can do timely repairs.
Ensure The Thermostat Is Positioned Correctly
One of the most important things to consider when installing an air conditioning system is positioning the thermostat correctly. It should be placed in a central location, away from direct heat or cold air sources that may affect accuracy. It should also not be placed near draughts or in direct sunlight, which can lead to incorrect readings and inefficient cooling performance.
Maintaining a consistent temperature between your house’s thermostat and other rooms is vital. If there are large variations, your system may end up under-or-overworking itself and costing you money on energy bills. A good way to avoid this is by ensuring all ducts and vents are open for optimal airflow throughout the home, which helps keep temperatures even.
Make Sure The Unit Is Properly Insulated
It is essential to ensure that the air conditioning unit is correctly insulated. Insulation reduces energy consumption and allows for uniform air temperature throughout your home. Professional installers have the tools and materials to insulate an AC unit properly, so leaving this task to them is best.
Proper insulation of your AC system also helps reduce noise pollution generated by the machine while in use. When insulation is insufficient, the noise can be audible even at a distance from where the unit is installed, which could be annoying for people living close by or within earshot.
Install A Programmable Thermostat
Installing a programmable thermostat is essential when installing an air conditioning system. This type of thermostat allows you to set the times when your AC will be turned on and off to take advantage of pre-programmed temperature settings.
Not only is this more convenient, but it also helps to save energy costs by reducing unnecessary use of your air conditioner. Additionally, a programmable thermostat provides increased comfort levels throughout different areas in the home, as each room can be adjusted to its desired temperature.
Clean And Check The Filter Regularly
Regularly cleaning and checking the filters of your air conditioning system is essential. Refrain from doing so to reduce system efficiency, cause poor indoor air quality, or even lead to costly repairs down the line. Ensuring that you clean and check the filter regularly is a crucial step in properly maintaining an AC unit.
It’s important to clean reusable filters on a regular basis according to manufacturers’ instructions; disposable filters should be changed each month during peak use seasons. Furthermore, it’s important to inspect both types of filters for any accumulation of dirt or debris that might impede airflow through the system. Keeping up with regular maintenance related to your filter will go a long way in ensuring maximum efficiency from your AC as well as enhanced comfort levels inside your home.
Conclusion
Properly installing and maintaining an air conditioning system is essential to optimise its performance. By considering the factors involved, such as the size of your home, budget, energy efficiency and more, choosing the right unit for you could be made much easier.
Moreover, avoiding common mistakes like buying an AC that’s too big or not cleaning the filter often can save you time and money in the long run. As a result, no matter what type of system you install in your home, ensure that all installation processes are done correctly to get optimal cooling all summer long.