Making the Most of an AC Installation
Driving down the highway with the windows rolled down on a hot, summer day is one of those picture-perfect moments. Or at least it is until the car hits a patch of gravel and the dust rolls into the car. Or until a bee comes flying in to sting the driver. Yes, that really can happen! So really, the picture-perfect moment would instead be driving down the highway on a hot, summer day with the AC turned on.
An air conditioning system, whether in a car, office, or home, helps keep everyone cool and comfortable. But when the AC stops working, a sense of discomfort starts to rise. Through this article, homeowners gain a better understanding of AC benefits. They can also learn tips for the installation and maintenance processes of an AC unit.
AC Installation Tips
There are all types of AC units, so much of the installation process will depend on the size and type of AC unit purchased. Smaller units can simply fit below a window or hang on a wall. But it’s the whole-house, central AC units that have more complex installations. There could be additional ductwork or electrical work required when adding the indoor and outdoor units of a whole-house system.
One of the hardest things to decide is the best place to locate the outdoor unit. Here are a few tips for homeowners to keep in mind when making this decision:
- Keep Noise Level Low: Even the quietest air conditioners still make some noise, so it’s best to avoid placing the outdoor unit near an office or bedroom window where it could be distracting.
- Don’t Restrict Airflow: The AC will release warm air from the top of the unit, and anything located above the AC (such as a deck) could lower its efficiency.
Benefits of AC Units & AC Services
Though increased comfort is the biggest benefit of an AC system, there are many other benefits they can provide.
-
When there are high levels of humidity in the air, moisture can condense and mold can begin to grow because mold thrives in humid environments. An AC unit can prevent mold growth to keep the home and everyone in it safe. - Dehydration is very common in the summer months, which can cause health issues such as muscle cramps, nausea, fatigue, and fainting. AC units are built to keep the home cool and balance the humidity, which can prevent dehydration and its health concerns.
- Clothes, electronics, furniture, and other belongings that are constantly exposed to high temperatures and moisture become worn quickly. An AC system helps to prolong the lifespan of these belongings.
- As time goes on, households can expand, and existing AC systems become worn down. Installing an updated unit can increase the efficiency of the AC system and help families experience greater comfort in the home.
Initiating Proper HVAC Maintenance
As with the vast majority of systems in a home, the HVAC system will slowly wear down over time. Parts of the unit can corrode, rust, or become inefficient, but the best way to prolong the life of the system is to take care of the HVAC system with proper maintenance.
This includes tasks such as switching out air filters, performing visual inspections of the system for any leaks or damage, and cleaning out the AC components at the start of the summer season.
These standard maintenance checks help homeowners be proactive about any small issues or inefficiencies before they turn into a larger emergency or immediate need for replacement.
About Carmine’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning
Carmine’s Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning has been a trusted local plumbing, heating, and air conditioning company for over 30 years. Their technicians know the ins and outs of a full range of plumbing and HVAC issues, and their customers know them for their fast, on-time arrival, attention to detail, and friendly, professional demeanor.
