Too much of anything is a bad thing. That’s especially true of your air conditioning system. While too little won’t get you cool, too much could actually be hazardous to your health. Absolute Comfort Air explains why properly sizing your air conditioner saves you money and helps you feel more comfortable.
Why air conditioning size matters
A system that’s too large or more powerful than your home needs can waste money, energy and leave your home damp and uncomfortable. That’s because a central air system performs two functions: it cools the air and removes humidity. An over-sized system will do the first, but can’t run long enough to do the second.
Load calculations for air conditioning
Our trusted air conditioning professionals at Absolute Comfort Air won’t even think about recommending a system without first performing a load calculation. They take into account the size of each room, the condition of your ducts, you home’s orientation to the sun, windows, insulation and several other factors—including our weather.
The standard method for sizing uses a “Manual J” calculation. The Air Conditioning Contractors of America developed it as a basis for determining the proper size of system for your home. But, it’s a guideline and not a firm rule. Here in Houston, for instance, it’s important to factor in our long periods of extreme summer heat.
BTU’s and You
BTU’s (British Thermal Units) are the bottom line for air conditioning. One BTU will raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree. Air conditioning units are measured in tons; each ton equals 12,000 BTU’s.
The results of your home’s load calculation determines how much BTU’s your air conditioning system will need to remove AND how many your furnace will need to add back in during our two weeks of winter.
Sizing, Cycling and your health
Since optimum efficiency is achieved at continuous running, it is important that your system be sized to achieve the longest run times possible. That means, the longer it runs, the better your air conditioning system cools and dehumidifies.
A system that’s too large will quickly cool, but won’t run long enough to remove humidity. This “short-cycling” not only costs more to run, but leaves your home feeling clammy. That moist air is a breeding ground for bacteria and mold.
Size right. Stay healthy.
Balancing temperature and humidity is the key to having a home that’s efficient, comfortable and healthy. Tom recommends you trust the professionals at Absolute Comfort Air to keep your existing system healthy and properly size a replacement unit.
