Three Things for Beginners to Know When Installing Air Conditioning
Posted on: 30 January 2020
There are several types of air conditioning systems, including portable systems installed in individual rooms and the huge central system that serves the entire home. The choice of an AC unit depends on user preferences and cooling needs. Even though you can install an AC on your own, if you are a DIYer, it is advisable to have an HVAC technician install the system. It is because there is a need to connect multiple interiors and exterior elements for the system to realise optimal performance. Here are a few things for beginners to know when installing air conditioning in their homes.
Thermostat — Most homeowners incur huge air conditioning bills because they fail to adjust the AC thermostat as required or skimp on installing a programmable thermostat. Assuming that you spend most of the day away from your home, but you want your home cooled accordingly, you can adjust the thermostat by raising the temperature settings. You can adjust the thermostat manually, which can be tedious at times because you may forget to do so. Alternatively, investing in a programmable thermostat is the way to go as the device automatically regulates the indoor temperature. With the advancement in technology, you will find thermostats that can be controlled remotely with your smartphone, and thus, enhance convenience while saving you air conditioning costs. Furthermore, ensure that you install the thermostat away from contact with the sun or any source of heat as this can produce erroneous readings.
Zoned System — If you are installing an air conditioning system in a big house with multiple rooms, it might be a good idea to consider a zoned system. In this design, the AC cools individual parts of the home as opposed to cooling spaces that are not in use. This system ensures energy efficiency because in most cases, some rooms/spaces might not need air conditioning, such as the basement or garage. During the installation of the zoned system, your AC installer will design dampers and zone valves in the air conditioning ductwork and vents. This method regulates the flow of air in individual rooms.
Insulating Ductwork — One major problem that leads to inefficiencies in air conditioning is that the pipes/ducts carrying conditioned air could be exposed leading to leaks. You can prevent this issue by ensuring that during installation, all the ductwork, especially in unconditioned spaces, is insulated properly using special duct-sealing tape. The insulation should meet the recommended thickness to prevent further leaks and subsequently reduce cooling expenses.
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