5 ways to tell it's time to upgrade your AC unit, according to an expert
With summer in full swing, there's no better time to show your AC some TLC.
Summer in Canada can be unpredictable, and after a season of severe weather across the country, it's worth preparing for just about every weather scenario.
Air conditioner units are an essential way to keep cool when the temperature starts to climb. However, without proper maintenance and care you may find your AC unit on the fritz at the worst possible time.
Whether you're looking to replace an old air conditioner with one that's more efficient and reduces energy costs, or are adding one to your home for the very first time, it can be difficult to know what to look out for.
To get the lowdown on all things AC, Yahoo Canada chatted with David Erb, Vice President of Residential Sales Enercare Home & Commercial Services, to help.
How do air conditioner and heat pump units work?
Put simply, air conditioners work to cool a room by drawing in warm air from the home and passing it over an evaporator coil that absorbs heat and removes humidity, which helps cool the air. The AC unit then expels the heat outside and pushes the cold air back into the room.
According to Erb, humidity removal is a big part of what helps us feel comfortable during periods of heat.
When should you consider replacing or upgrading your air conditioner?
It depends on how the equipment is installed and used, but the general lifespan for an air conditioning unit is 15 years. Other signs that it may be time to replace your AC?
It takes a long time for your house to cool down after turning on the AC
If any part of the air conditioning system is loud or making unusual noises, including bangs, squeaks or scrapes
If you’ve had previous equipment breakdowns or the outdoor unit is showing signs of deterioration
If you are concerned with high energy consumption with an older AC unit
What are some common types of air conditioners?
Central air conditioners are some of the most common types of AC units used in Canada, particularly in homes that already have a ductwork distribution system. The furnace blower drives cold air through the home when the thermostat is set to cooling, and the movement of air also helps to dehumidify the home during the process.
And while central air is the most common form of AC in Canada, it's also not the only one.
"Ductless air conditioners can be used in lieu of central air in residences that do not have ductwork for the air to flow through to all parts of the home," Erb told Yahoo Canada. "The ductless 'head' mounts on the wall and circulates the cool air from that single point and will also remove humidity as it recirculates the air."
Depending on your home's existing heating and venting system, you can also choose from window-mounted air conditioners and wall-mounted air conditioners, which are meant to cool small spaces like an individual room or a small apartment, or portable air conditioners.
No matter which type you choose, Erb recommends having the equipment sized and installed correctly by a reputable, certified company.
"Even the best equipment if not installed correctly will not do a good job," he says. "The most important day in the life of a new home comfort system is the day it is installed."
How to keep your AC unit running properly
Homeowners can care for their AC units by ensuring the outdoor portion is kept clear of weeds, grass or debris and has plenty of space for ventilation.
"That is the core purpose of that unit— to drive the process of refrigeration but also dispel the heat it removes from inside the home. It needs to breathe," says Erb.
Additionally, the unit should be covered in the winter with a proper fitting cover that does not choke off air from being able to move through it.
In central systems, homeowners should make sure their furnace filter is changed and clean as well as the furnace being serviced effectively. A quality licensed service technician is also your best bet to perform maintenance to the AC as prescribed by its manufacturer.
In case you're looking to purchase a new AC unit now that summer is in full swing, shop a selection of air conditioners below.
GE Ahv05lz 5050 Btu Window Air Conditioner
SereneLife Portable Electric Air Conditioner
Rheem Mini Split Wall Mount Air Handler Heater and Air Conditioner
4 in 1 Portable Air Conditioner
OMNIMAX 13,500 BTU 4-In-1 Portable Air Conditioner with Heat Pump
Let us know what you think by commenting below and tweeting @YahooStyleCA! Follow us on Twitter and Instagram.
