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Factors to consider before getting an air conditioner installed

Factors to consider before getting an air conditioner installed

Any type of air conditioner installation requires proper knowledge and tools. This article will provide a brief insight into the types of air conditioners and the factors to be considered when getting an air conditioner installed at your home or office.

There are three main types of air conditioning systems.
Window air conditioning units
One of the oldest types, they are designed to cool small areas such as an apartment or a living room. They are easy to install and economical to run. These air conditioning systems are installed in windows from where they draw in the air, condense and cool it before releasing it into the room area.

Split air conditioners
One of the most popular air conditioning systems across the country, it is referred to as “split” because it is an air conditioning system that requires both, indoor and outdoor components. The indoor component is known as a handler, containing a blower and evaporator. The outdoor component, however, comprises a metal cabinet that contains a condenser and compressor.

Packaged air conditioners
These types of air conditioning systems combine both, air conditioning and heat pump; this means that they have both heating and cooling equipment. This type of air conditioner installation is often seen in commercial spaces due to their flexibility and small footprint. Usually considered as a type of HVAC system, it requires ducting for air flow and ventilation.

The following factors may come into play when getting a particular type of air conditioner installed.
Installing new duct systems
If your home or office space does not have an existing ductwork, you may choose a ductless air conditioner (for example, a split air conditioner). HVAC and other types of central air conditioner installation require a separate duct system, which comes with extra space and cost considerations.

Repairing duct systems
If your home or office space already has a duct system and you are planning to install a ducted air conditioner, then these existing ducts might require repair and alterations to support the new systems. Air leaks due to faulty duct systems can decrease air conditioning efficiency by up to 30 percent. This can further lead to energy loss and poor temperature control. Duct system requires proper sealing to support the new air conditioning system.

Indoor air quality
Air conditioner installation requires a certain level of air dehumidification. Installing only an air conditioner might not be enough for your indoor environment based on your geographical location. You might need a whole-home dehumidifier to work with your air conditioner to significantly improve the air quality of your home or office space. Apart from this, you might also need an air purifier as an add-on if you live in places with below average AQI (air quality index).