Frequently Asked Questions About APM Construction Services
What size HVAC system do I need for my home?
Square footage: This is a starting point, but not the only factor. Larger homes will generally need larger HVAC systems.
Climate: Homes in hotter climates will need a larger capacity than homes in milder climates.
Insulation: Homes with good insulation will need a smaller capacity system than homes with poor insulation.
Ductwork: Leaky ductwork will reduce the efficiency of your system, so you may need a larger capacity system to compensate.
Sun exposure: Homes that get a lot of sun exposure will need a larger capacity system than homes that are shaded.
Number of occupants: Homes with more occupants will generate more heat and need a larger capacity system.
Here's a rough guide to HVAC size based on square footage:
600-1,000 square feet: 1.5 tons
1,000-1,500 square feet: 2 tons
1,500-2,000 square feet: 3 tons
2,000-2,500 square feet: 4 tons
How can I make my HVAC system more energy-efficient?
System Maintenance:
Change your air filter regularly: A clogged filter restricts airflow and makes your system work harder. Check your filter monthly, especially during heavy use months (summer and winter), and replace it when dirty (at least every 3 months).
Schedule regular tune-ups: A qualified technician can clean your system, check for leaks, and ensure it's running at peak efficiency. Aim for a tune-up annually.
Optimizing System Performance:
Install a programmable thermostat: Programmable thermostats allow you to set different temperatures for different times of day and days of the week. This way, you can avoid heating or cooling an empty house.
Set your thermostat strategically: In the summer, aim for 78 degrees Fahrenheit (25.5 degrees Celsius) or higher. In the winter, set it to 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius) or lower. Even a few degrees can make a big difference in energy use.
Improve airflow: Keep furniture and curtains away from vents to ensure unobstructed airflow throughout your home.
What is a SEER rating, and why is it important?
SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. It's a measurement system that tells you how efficiently an air conditioner cools your home over a typical season. In simpler terms, it reflects how much cool air you get for each unit of energy used.
Here's why SEER ratings are important:
Cost Savings: A higher SEER rating translates to a more efficient system, which means it uses less energy to cool your home. This translates to lower cooling costs on your utility bills.
Environmental Impact: Less energy use means fewer greenhouse gas emissions. So, choosing a high-SEER air conditioner is an eco-friendly option.
Comfort: While not the only factor, a high-SEER system can provide more consistent cooling by operating at variable speeds instead of constantly turning on and off.
Think of it like miles per gallon for your car but for cooling efficiency. Just like you'd prefer a car with better gas mileage, a higher SEER rating is generally better for your wallet and the environment.