The Importance of Proper Sizing in AC Installation

technician installing an AC system Montclair, NJ

It’s not enough to choose the right type or brand of air conditioning unit for your home or office. The size and capacity will also play a crucial role in its efficiency and overall performance. Read on as our experts at Adriatic Aire discuss why proper sizing is important in AC installation in Montclair, NJ and how it can affect your comfort, energy bills, and system lifespan.

What is Proper Sizing?

Proper sizing refers to matching the cooling capacity of your air conditioning unit with the size and layout of your space. This can include considering factors such as square footage, insulation, ceiling height, number of occupants, and even the local climate. Oversized or undersized units can lead to many issues, from inefficiency and discomfort to frequent breakdowns and costly AC repair work.

The Pitfalls of Oversized AC Units

While it may be tempting to tell your AC installation company that you’d like a larger unit for maximum cooling power, this can actually do more harm than good. The harm being:

  • Short Cycling

An oversized unit will cool your space too quickly and shut off, only to start up again shortly after. This frequent start-stop cycle not only wastes energy but also puts unnecessary strain on the system components, leading to increased wear and tear.

  • Reduced Comfort

Contrary to popular belief, oversized AC unit installation does not necessarily provide better comfort. It can lead to uneven cooling, with some areas of your space feeling too cold while others remain warm. This is because an oversized unit does not run long enough to properly dehumidify the air, resulting in a damp and uncomfortable environment.

  • Higher Energy Bills

Larger units require more energy to operate, so an oversized AC system can significantly increase your utility bills. This is because the unit has to work harder and use more power to cool a space smaller than its capacity.

  • Shortened Lifespan

With short cycling, increased energy consumption, and uneven cooling, an oversized unit will also have a shorter lifespan compared to a properly sized one. This means you’ll likely need a new air conditioning installation sooner than expected, costing you more money in the long run.

The Consequences of Undersized AC Units

Equally problematic, an undersized AC unit is also not the solution. While it may seem like a cost-effective choice at first, you’re likely to experience the following issues:

  • Insufficient Cooling

An undersized unit will struggle to keep up with your cooling demands, resulting in inadequate cooling and discomfort. This is especially true during the peak summer months, when temperatures are at their highest.

  • Constant Running

To compensate for its small size, an undersized AC unit will have to run longer and work harder to cool your space. Even then, it may not be able to achieve the desired temperature, leaving you with a constantly running and noisy unit.

  • Poor Air Quality

An undersized unit may not be able to properly filter and circulate the air in your living space, resulting in poor indoor air quality. This can bring forth health issues and discomfort for occupants, especially those with respiratory conditions.

Work with a reputable provider of AC installation services in Montclair, NJ like Adriatic Aire to ensure your cooling system is the best fit for your home. Our experienced team will conduct a thorough assessment and recommend the right size and type of unit for your specific needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.