Summer is almost here with its sweltering temperatures. If you have an older home without air conditioning do you have to suffer through another long hot summer?
Installing an air conditioner can be a quick fix to bring your house into the modern age. Before you rush out to buy a new ducted air conditioning system, here are a few things to consider.
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Leaking Windows and Doors
It isn’t much good to install new air conditioning if the cool air is just going to leak out through ageing doors and windows.
Take a look at your existing windows and doors and close any air gaps you find. Check all your windows, doors, fireplaces, skirting and fans. Every home is different, if you aren’t able to identify air leaks yourself get professional advice from your contractor.
Heritage Homes
Check if your home is heritage-listed. Each local council will have different regulations. If you are in a heritage home get permission before making any major alterations. You could face fines and restoration costs if you don’t stick to the prescribed standards.
A heritage home could involve installation complications. A good professional contractor with experience working with heritage homes can usually find a suitable solution.
Energy Efficiency
Investing long-term in improving the energy efficiency of your home will pay dividends in reduced energy costs. An air-tight home will require less energy to keep it cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
Consider upgrading your blinds and windows as these are responsible for most of your cool air loss in the summer and warm air loss during the cold months.
Maintenance
All air conditioners and heating systems require periodic maintenance. Dust, dirt, moisture and microbes can build up on internal components. If left unchecked these can cause corrosion and increased wear. Over time, your system becomes less effective and can shorten its lifespan.
Regular maintenance removes dirt and debris and can keep your system running efficiently.
Sizing
The new air conditioner has to be a good match for your specific cooling requirements. One size does not fit all. When you hire a certified air conditioning service, they will be able to give you advice regarding the best match for your home.
Do a cooling load calculation to figure out the capacity needed to keep your house comfortable on a typical hot day. Your air conditioner cooling capacity must be comparable to the amount of heat gain your house experiences.
Over-sized units will cycle on and off rapidly and are not efficient. Undersized units will run almost continuously as they struggle to meet the load and cost more in the long run.
Installation
The installation of ducted air conditioning systems should only be done by a qualified professional.
Expect to do a site inspection to assess your space and determine the best location for the indoor and outdoor units.
Your installer will design your ductwork and install your system. Proper design ensures the system is installed correctly and that cool air is evenly distributed throughout your home. Patching and restoration of walls will be done after you system is installed and tested.
With the right system, you can stay cool during the hot Australian summers and warm during chilly winters.
