How to Choose the Right Air Conditioner for Your Home

Even though air conditioning is probably the last thing on your mind this time of the year, the snow will melt soon enough, and then, before you know it, summer will be here and you’ll still be stuck with that same old inefficient air conditioner. By replacing your old unit before the warmer seasons arrive, you will save time and money. Your local St. George AC service and installation company can help you pick out the best air conditioner for your home. You can also keep these factors in mind to choose the right unit for your home.

Determine the Correct Cooling Capacity for Your Home

Buying an air conditioner that is too big or too small for your home can waste money and may even lower how comfortable you are inside your home. To figure out which size unit is best for your cooling needs, determine the square footage of your home, and match the area to be cooled with the corresponding BTU output. The U.S. Department of Energy provides a square footage chart that can help you determine which size unit is best for your home’s cooling needs.

Make Adjustments

After you determine the correct cooling capacity for your home, make adjustments to narrow down on the perfect air conditioning unit. For example, if your home is heavily shaded by trees or buildings, reduce the BTU capacity by 10 percent. You should also add 600 BTUs for each additional person in your home besides you and your partner. These adjustments can be tricky, so be sure to work with a certified AC service expert to find the right HVAC system for your home. And when you do start looking for air conditioners, look for the Energy Star symbol to save money on your cooling bills.