Tips for Choosing the Right A/C Unit

by Ann Hayward 12/22/2019

When it comes to buying things for the home, the air conditioning unit is not the most intriguing. But it is one of the essential components. Choosing the right A/C unit may be the difference between utmost comfort and sizzling heat. Determining the right type of air conditioning unit and how to measure for it will help you find the ideal one for your home.

Types of Air Conditioners

Before you buy an A/C unit, you need to know which type is right for your home. Air conditioning units come in varied sizes, shapes, and prices. Below are four types to consider when shopping around.

• Central Units: This kind of A/C pumps cooled air from a split unit into an entire home via duct work. Although it is expensive, it is more energy efficient. If your home already has duct heating, this is an excellent choice for you.

• Window Units: A window unit sits on a window sill and pumps cool air inside a room and forces warm air outside. They are great for keeping single rooms cool, but in a larger home you may need several to keep the temperature comfortable.

• Through-the-Wall or Mini-Split Units: These systems attach to an exterior wall with the compressor and condenser portions of the unit on the outside and the controls and airflow on the inside. These come in various shapes and sizes. Some are meant for installation below a window while other designs allow for overhead placement.

• Portable Units: This type is ideal if you have limited space and want to move from room to room with ease. If you are conscious about home decor, portable units are very sleek-looking. Some portable units utilize a hose to eject hot air outside a window while others simply recirculate the air within the room.

Things to Consider When Choosing an A/C Unit

Once you’ve narrowed down the type of system, choosing the right A/C unit is not difficult. Below are the items to check when selecting the perfect A/C unit for your home.

• Capacity: When it comes to choosing the right A/C, it is vital to pick the correct size. Picking the right size does not mean the physical size of the A/C unit but for the output of your home. Generally, air conditioner sizes measure by BTUs (British Thermal Units) for window, wall or portable units or by the ton for central-duct units. To know the right size for your home, you need to know the square footage. For a BTU system, 8,000 BTUs will cool 350 square feet and 1,2000 BTUs will cool 550 square feet. For centralized systems, you add one ton for every 600 square feet of your home. That is to say, if a home has 3,000 square feet and you want to cool the entire house, purchase a 5-ton air conditioner unit. Figure out the size of your home and choose an A/C unit that is the ideal size based on tons.

• Energy Efficiency: Now that you know the size of the A/C unit, it’s time to think about energy efficiency. Energy efficiency may be complicated, so it’s best you consult an HVAC professional for expert advice. Choosing a more efficient A/C unit saves money, and it’s eco-friendly.

• Features: Some A/C units come with better features than others. Check for features such as smart thermostats, auto delay switches and fan-only options before buying an A/C unit for your home.

• Warranty: Before you buy, double check the warranty of the A/C unit to make sure any foreseeable malfunctions are covered. Some warranties only cover parts like the condenser or the pump while others cover labor and parts if the unit becomes faulty.

For expert advice on finding your perfect air conditioning unit, have an energy efficiency inspection done for your home, or consult an HVAC professional.

About the Author

Ann Hayward

Born in Philadelphia and raised in the suburbs, Ann Hayward got her Pennsylvania real estate license at age 18 even before going to college. This second-generation real estate professional followed in the footsteps of her father and two uncles, inheriting their passion for the business. Licensed in DC, Maryland and Virginia, Ann is accomplished in her career, with numerous designations including SFR, SRES, PSA, WHC, and multiunit Housing Development Finance Professional (HDFP) from the National Development Council. She specializes in Prince Georges and Montgomery Counties, Northern Virginia and Washington, DC, all jurisdictions where Ann has lived and knows very well. In addition to her professional expertise, she owns and manages personal investment property, understands and has been involved in the renovation/remodeling process, and has great resources which she shares with clients. When you hire Ann to represent you, she will make your buying or selling experience an enjoyable, rewarding one. Her compassion, sensitivity to her clients’ needs, eye for detail, and ability to see the big picture when guiding you through a purchase or sale are unique assets that will ensure your success. A diverse and relevant background also gives Ann a distinct edge. For 30 years, she worked in fast-paced, high-pressure television and theatrical production, attaining the highest achievement – DGA membership as a Director, and as an award-winning staff and freelance writer. Her keen audio visual skills and design sense benefit sellers in marketing their properties, and are invaluable in helping buyers see the potential of space. A true renaissance woman, Ann was also an income tax professional and office manager for H&R Block, so she thoroughly understands the tax and financial implications of acquiring and selling real estate. Her superior organizational skills are further evidenced as owner of a downsizing/professional organizing business, Managed For You, which allows her to connect with everyone from millennials to boomers and seniors, whether for small space planning or assisting with major decluttering and transitioning. Ann holds an AB in American History from Simmons College, Boston, plus attended Robert Wagner Graduate School of Public Administration where she was a candidate for Doctorate. She additionally studied Film Direction at the American Film Institute in LA, and was a Stanford University post-graduate Professional Journalism Fellow. Personally, Ann is an avid if not very good golfer, and the co-founder of a nonprofit 501c3 organization offering educational guidance, tutoring and counseling for youngsters from elementary school through college admission. She sits on the board of trustees of a nonprofit educational film production corporation as well. (202) 494-6252 [email protected]