A/C
Q: My home has a forced-air furnace but no air conditioning system. Can I add central air?
Q: Why does it cost so much to run an air conditioning system?
Q: Do I really need a tune-up for my air conditioning system?
Q: What should I do each spring before my I start my air conditioning system for the first time?
Q: What does SEER stand for?
A: SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. It is used to indicate the efficiency of air conditioning systems. The higher the SEER value, the more cooling you get per unit of energy. As of January 2006, federal regulations prohibit the manufacture of cooling units with a SEER lower than 13. Today's cooling units are up to 40% more efficient than those made as recently as 10 years ago.
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Q: Is it OK to “mix and match” air conditioning components of different efficiencies? Just because my compressor is on its way out, does it mean I have to replace my indoor unit too?
A: It's never a good idea to mix and match a/c components that have different SEERs (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio). Proper sizing and installation of equipment is critical to achieving optimal performance. Split system air conditioners and heat pumps must match the appropriate coil components in order to meet the current Energy Star requirements. Look for R410A refrigerant systems; now rate at 16 SEER for more savings. You might save money initially by replacing only your outdoor unit with one of the new, mandated, 13-or-higher-SEER compressors and hooking it up to your 10- or 12-SEER system, but in terms of long-term savings, it doesn't make sense. (It's kind of like buying a brand-new BOSE stereo and hooking it up to old, antiquated speakers.) You're just not going to get your money's worth in terms of comfort and efficiency. You're better off paying a little more up front to save more over time.
At Bottini Fuel, we have the expertise to help you choose the right a/c equipment for your home. For a no-obligation evaluation, contact us.
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Q: My home has a forced-air furnace but no air conditioning system. Can I add central air?
A: You bet! We can mount a cooling coil on top of the furnace and install a condensing unit outside. For a no-obligation evaluation, contact us.
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Q. My home does NOT have forced-air heating, so there is no ductwork. Can I still get central air conditioning?
A. Absolutely! Today, ductless air conditioning options make it possible to install a quiet, efficient air conditioning system in your home even if it doesn't have ductwork.
Ductless a/c systems consist of one or more indoor air distribution units linked by refrigeration lines to an outdoor compressor. These flexible “hoses” can be positioned inside your walls and ceilings with a minimum of inconvenience. Installing ductless air conditioning costs a little more than standard central air systems, but it costs much less than installing ductwork and a central air conditioner.
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Q: Why does it cost so much to run an air conditioning system?
A: Air conditioners run on electricity, and electricity is the most expensive energy source. Converting fuels like coal or natural gas into electricity is inherently inefficient. What's more, much of the electricity originally generated at the power plant is lost during transmission over power lines. As a result, electricity is only 33% efficient on average, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
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Q: Do I really need a tune-up for my air conditioning system?
A: An air conditioning tune-up and inspection will help catch service problems before they get you hot under the collar. Many breakdowns occur on the hottest day of the year—because that's when your a/c is under the most stress. And because a tune-up ensures that your system will run at peak efficiency, you'll have lower electric bills. A system that's running efficiently can save you as much as 30%?? on cooling costs. So give us a call to schedule your annual tune-up!
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Q: What should I do each spring before my I start my air conditioning system for the first time?
A: Follow these steps:
• Make sure all A/C power switches are off.
• Uncover the outdoor unit (condenser).
• Use a garden hose to wash off the outdoor unit.
• Pour some bleach down the condensate drain.
• Clean or replace the air filter. (Do this on a regular basis during the cooling season.)
During the cooling season, you should:
• trim away weeds or other vegetation that grows near the outdoor unit.
• avoid planting any trees or shrubs within 16 inches of the outdoor unit.
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