Are you considering a new air conditioner? With warmer weather quickly approaching San Antonio, TX, now is the time to shop. You may be tempted to replace your system with a newer version of what you already have. However, what worked for you a decade ago may be inefficient in comparison to what you can get today. But what should you look for in an air conditioner?

1. Size

   An oversized unit will suffer from short cycling. This is when the unit turns on and off too frequently, which uses more electricity. On the other hand, a unit that’s too small won’t be able to keep the temperature cool enough on the hottest days. An HVAC professional must do a load calculation to determine what size air conditioner is best for your home.

2. Energy Efficiency Rating

   When deciding on an air conditioner, be sure to look for its SEER rating. This is the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. This tells you how the system operates during the seasonally. The SEER rating indicates the relative amount of energy needed to provide a specific cooling output. The higher the rating, the more energy-efficient the system is. Newer systems are rated 13 or higher while old units, typically manufactured before 2006, generally have a SEER rating of 6 or less.

3. Type of System

   If you have ductwork in your home, then a central air conditioner will likely be the best choice for you. However, if you do not have ductwork installed, then a ductless mini-split system may be a better option. Solar air conditioning is another viable option for many homes. An HVAC professional can take a look at your home and determine what kind of system may be the best fit for your home.

Contact the San Antonio, TX air conditioning experts at [company_name] today!