What Happens When Your AC System is the Wrong Size for Your Home?

When it comes to effectively cooling your St. Petersburg, FL, home, you need a properly sized air conditioner. Discover what air conditioner size means, what happens with an improperly sized AC system and how to get the right one for your home.

Understanding Air Conditioner Size

Air conditioner size refers to the cooling capacity of the system, measured in British Thermal Units or BTUs. The higher the BTU rating, the more cooling capacity the system offers. It also uses more power. Both undersized and oversized systems present issues, as they increase energy costs and AC breakdowns.

Problems With an Oversized System

A properly sized air conditioner should run two or three cycles per hour, each lasting 10 to 15 minutes. An oversized AC system will get too cold and create too much pressure, causing it to short-cycle. Short-cycling prevents your system from ever cooling your home or removing the air’s moisture.

The start is the most strenuous part of the cycle, using the most energy and causing the most strain. Having more starts increases energy consumption and wears your components more quickly. This leads to more frequent breakdowns and a shorter service life.

Problems With an Undersized System

An undersized AC system causes the same problems, though for a different reason. In the case of not enough capacity, your system will run longer cycles, but with the same outcome.

Getting the Right AC System for Your Home

The best way to get the right AC system is to start with a professional HVAC load calculation. A service technician evaluates numerous factors to determine the right size system for your home. These factors include:

• Home size.
• Number of windows and doors.
• Insulation.
• Appliances.
• Direction your home faces.

When it’s time to replace your air conditioner, make sure you work with a trusted installer. Call to schedule your air conditioner installation consultation with our NATE-certified service technicians at Arctic Air Systems.

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