Did this summer reveal that your AC is no longer up to the job? Whether you have time to plan or you’re facing an emergency replacement, there are a few important things to know before you buy a new system.
First, AC installation requires a trained HVAC technician. It’s also essential to get not just the right type of system, but the right size.
Size Matters: Understanding AC Tonnage
Tonnage refers to an AC system’s cooling power, not its physical weight. Specifically, it measures how much heat the system can remove from your home per hour. Your AC doesn’t create cold air; it removes heat. That heat removal is measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units). One ton of cooling capacity equals 12,000 BTUs removed per hour, with each additional ton adding another 12,000 BTUs.
How Much Tonnage Do You Need?
That depends on your home. Our technicians determine the right size by performing a cooling load calculation, which accounts for your home’s insulation, number of occupants, windows, doors, and heat-producing appliances.
Bigger Is Not Better
An oversized AC cools your home too quickly, causing it to shut off and restart in rapid cycles. This is called short cycling, and it accelerates wear on your system significantly. An undersized unit, on the other hand, runs constantly without ever reaching the desired temperature. The goal is a system sized just right for your space.
The only way to get that right is with professional installation. Contact Fresh Air Cooling and Heating today for reliable AC installation and HVAC services in Houston, TX.
