At Trio Heating, Air & Plumbing , we’re proudly upgrading our service vehicles to a Tesla fleet. This signifies the principle behind our new slogan: “TRIO: Where Sustainability Meets Service Excellence”. Aside from planting a tree for every job we do (which means a great deal for the region), we’re committed to environmental sustainability and high-quality service in every aspect of our work, down to the vehicles our employees drive.

Until now, we have relied on gas-powered vans. Investing in Teslas is allowing us to convert to an eco-friendly all-electric fleet. Safety is another reason for our initiative. The autopilot feature in Tesla cars adds a new level of protection. It’s one of many features that help reduce accidents; therefore, our sales team and service technicians are safer on the job. 

Tesla vehicles are reliable and convenient so our employees can be happy at work, which we know contributes to higher quality service. We also know how much Tesla means in the Bay Area. Here’s a look at the benefits of a Tesla and how it can improve a fleet.

Benefits of Teslas

Driving a Tesla doesn’t only improve safety. It has many other perks that benefit casual drivers and businesses. These benefits include:

• Impressive Battery Range: Although battery range depends on the Tesla model, driving range is rarely a problem, especially for city driving or commuting. Some Teslas are capable of traveling 320+ miles on a single charge. That means they’re suited for long-distance driving or traveling from site to site during the workday. And, with the battery placed on the bottom of the vehicle, a lower center of gravity prevents the car from rolling over.
• Save Money on Gas: With high gasoline prices, your budget can be strained by fuel costs alone. On average, a full battery charge costs less than half the price of filling up the tank. Teslas are fully electric so you never have to buy any gasoline. Charging stations can be installed in virtually any home or business, so you start your day with a full charge.
• A Large Network of Charging Stations: Tesla’s supercharger network consists of over 30,000 stations, where a 15-minute charge can yield a 200-mile range. A full battery charge can sometimes be achieved in an hour and a half or less. The company’s charging stations are known for being dependable and accessible. Therefore, charging an EV battery in the field can be achieved quickly and easily, with minimal disruption to workflow.
• More Eco-Friendly: Tesla vehicles don’t use traditional fuel. Therefore, they help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and the burning of fossil fuels. This contributes to a smaller carbon footprint. Our crews can drive around all day and not produce the environmental pollution that traditional cars and trucks do. Tesla has indeed helped TRIO’s efforts to be more sustainable.
• Over-the-Air Updates: With Tesla, you need not worry about outdated features and technology. The cars are built to last. Meanwhile, software updates enable Tesla owners/operators to take advantage of new features and services as they become available. They have allowed users to interact with vehicle cameras and speakers via their cell phones. Some updates have even improved vehicle functionality by, for example, adding engine horsepower or modifying battery or wheel performance.
• Few Maintenance Requirements: Teslas require hardly any maintenance, which further reduces costs and downtime. They don’t need oil changes, spark plug replacements, or new fuel filters. The regenerative braking system used in Tesla vehicles rarely requires new brake pads. Air and cabin filters need replacement every 2 to 3 years while the AC desiccant bag lasts roughly 6 years.
• Security Features: Numerous security features are included in Teslas. Eight cameras help improve safety and also help keep your vehicle more secure. Sentry Mode helps protect your car from intruders by detecting signs of trouble and flashing the headlights to ward off unwanted guests. It also displays a message on the infotainment screen to remind outsiders they’re being recorded. 

The system sends smartphone notifications as well. An app lets you view live feeds and speak through a vehicle’s exterior speaker. Or, you can view recorded footage once you return to your car. Additionally, Teslas let you shut off certain features and lock the trunk or glove box remotely, which limits access to them by, for example, valet personnel.

Why Upgrade a Service Fleet with Teslas

Upgrading an entire fleet may seem like a big investment, but these vehicles have 5-star NHTSA safety ratings in every category. The low risk of injury means our workers are always protected. Their day is also easier. Remote diagnostics and mobile service benefit drivers by saving them time and allowing them to focus on their job duties. 

Tesla accommodates all types of drivers. The company’s fleet and business program is designed to help turn your fleet all-electric and reduce your organization’s environmental impact. You can also take advantage of tax incentives to further reduce operational costs, on top of savings on gas and maintenance expenses.

However, Tesla doesn’t only benefit your bottom line. Driving one also benefits the community. With the low probability of accidents and injuries, using features such as Autopilot contributes to safer roads. Therefore, we’re helping keep people throughout The Greater San Francisco Bay Area and the Bay Area safe.

Here’s yet another perk. California permits Tesla owners to use HOV lanes without occupancy restrictions. This allows our sales and service teams to get to work sites more efficiently.

How TRIO Plans to Introduce Its Tesla Fleet

Switching to an all-electric fleet of vehicles is a big undertaking. Since we want to ensure our customers see uninterrupted service, we’re slowly converting from our gas-powered vans to a full fleet of electric vehicles. Taking a phased approach allows us to ensure the process goes more smoothly and our fleet is 100% reliable when it’s complete. Therefore we can continue prioritizing our customers’ needs and the lasting performance of their AC, heating, and indoor air quality systems.

TRIO: Where Sustainability Meets Service Excellence

Whether you need help with air conditioning or heating installation, repair, or maintenance, TRIO has you covered. Our sustainability initiatives, including upgrading our gas-powered vans to all-electric Teslas, will allow even faster customer service response times. We can also continue to guarantee the highest quality work and provide the best products and brands on the market. 

A professionally trained team ensures your home is comfortable, safe, and energy efficient. Aside from AC and heating equipment, they install and service thermostats, insulate attics and crawlspaces, and provide duct cleaning and sealing. To learn more about these and our air scrubbers and whole-house purification systems, or request service, book an appointment online or call (415) 223-1647.

At some point, most homeowners face the decision to repair or replace their air conditioning system. A repair is often more cost-effective up-front. However, AC replacement can have many benefits. Your air conditioning contractor can help you decide and weigh the benefits of each option. We’ll look at a few perks of replacing your AC unit and when a repair is the best choice for now.

Reasons You Should Consider AC Replacement

There are many benefits to replacing your air conditioner. While you may have become attached to your AC over the past few years, a replacement may be the right decision. These are some reasons to go this route:

• Repair Costs Are Adding Up: Even if your AC needs a minor repair, it can cost hundreds of dollars. You may pay thousands of dollars for a major repair. But even if you’re not facing repair bills that high, consider how frequently your AC requires service. To determine if a repair is worth it, multiply the estimated repair cost by the unit’s age; if it exceeds the cost of a new model, go with AC replacement. Or, if a repair costs over 50% of installation, replace the system.
• Your AC Is Aging: Most home ACs last 10 to 15 years, but depending on the system, they can last longer. However, a unit older than 10 years that requires extensive repairs should usually be replaced. Older air conditioners are less efficient to begin with, and they’re more likely to break down and require additional repairs. You’re just wasting money by fixing a 20-year-old air conditioner time and again.
• Energy Efficiency Is Decreasing: An AC works less efficiently as it ages. Also, older models weren’t designed to be as energy-efficient as modern ones. Higher energy bills are one disadvantage of keeping your aging AC going. You may also be dealing with temperature control issues. A new air conditioner provides more consistent temperatures while saving on energy each month.
• Indoor Air Quality Is On the Decline: A malfunctioning air conditioner is less effective at maintaining good indoor air quality. Excessive dust, particulates, and other pollutants can lead to respiratory and other health issues. Replacing an old AC is one of the best ways to improve indoor air quality. Newer units have more effective filters and are designed to newer standards that require homes to have cleaner air.
• Old ACs Can Be Hazardous: An aging air conditioner can be a safety risk. Worn components and faulty wiring can increase the risk of a fire. Some systems still use R-22 Freon, which depletes the ozone layer and is an environmental hazard. If your AC has a coolant leak, it’s an immediate risk to your health and safety, as refrigerant is toxic.

Can I Get By with an AC Repair?

You may not yet need AC replacement if there are issues such as:

• Warm air blowing due to a faulty or incorrectly set thermostat, dirty filter, or restricted airflow caused by clogged ducts.
• A refrigerant leak if a line can be sealed and your AC system uses the latest acceptable refrigerant.
• The air conditioner runs constantly due to a clogged filter, dirty coil, low refrigerant, or a malfunctioning thermostat.
• Loud, unusual noises are caused by a loose, dirty, or damaged part; in this case, the affected part can be cleaned or replaced.
• Restricted airflow from vents, which can be resolved by cleaning or sealing air ducts or fixing the motor or blower.

How Do I Decide on AC Repair or AC Replacement?

To make a decision, you need to determine the cause of the issue. Many AC issues, even if the system is older, are caused by simple problems. The more complex the issue or the more components it involves, the more likely your HVAC contractor will recommend AC replacement. Therefore, a technician must evaluate the extent of the damage. A repair makes sense if it entails replacing a small, inexpensive part; if the system is over 15 years old and requires a large, costly part, it should be replaced.

Contact Trio Heating, Air & Plumbing

Our fully trained technicians can provide any type of AC repair and help you decide when it’s time for AC replacement. We install top-quality makes and models and ensure they provide reliable comfort and operate efficiently. During air conditioning installation, we find the right model and size of unit for your home, remove your old system, install the new one, and test it to ensure it performs as intended. For more information, book an appointment online or call (415) 223-5096.

Air conditioner maintenance can help keep your home cool, improve energy efficiency, and avoid major repairs. Several different tasks, whether DIY or completed by a reputable air conditioning company, help your AC run more smoothly. That’s why we recommend scheduling AC maintenance at least once a year. If you want your air conditioning system to be reliable and last longer, don’t forget these tasks:

1. Check the Filter and Replace It As Necessary

Ensuring the air filter is clean is one of the most important AC maintenance tasks. Checking and cleaning/changing the filter is a simple DIY task and takes little time out of your schedule. If a filter gets blocked, reduced airflow will cause the unit to work harder and become less efficient. In a ducted system, it can also cause indoor air quality issues.

Disposable filters need to be replaced. Other filters can be removed, cleaned with running water, dried, and reinstalled. To access the filter, turn off the HVAC system and open the service panel. Most filters slide out easily, so cleaning or replacing one is a basic task.

2. Keep the Indoor Unit Clean

The indoor evaporator unit tends to get dirty over time. Layers of dirt, dust, and grime can build up on the coil and blower, reducing performance and leading to a musty or moldy smell. 

To clean the indoor unit, wipe it down with a clean cloth or feather duster. You can also spray the cloth first with a cleaning or antibacterial solution and wipe down the casing. If possible, clean the evaporator coil too. For a more thorough chemical cleaning of components inside the system, hire a qualified HVAC technician.

3. Compare the Thermostat Settings with the Indoor Temperature

One way to know your AC is working properly is to verify the thermostat setting and air temperature match. The thermostat should automatically turn the system on and off to maintain the set temperature. It should also show the air temperature, but you can also use a separate thermometer to verify the reading. If the numbers differ, check if the thermostat is properly set, if the AC needs a new filter, or if there’s an issue with the drain or evaporator coil.

4. Inspect the Condensate Drain and Clear Any Blockages

Your air conditioner collects condensation that forms during the cooling cycle. A built-in tray/pan and drain allow this moisture to be collected and directed outdoors. However, a blockage of grime, mold, algae, or pieces of insulation can cause water to back up and overflow, leading to possible odors and water damage. The drain can be cleared out using a vacuum cleaner at the end of the condensate pipe; depending on the severity of the issue, you may want to call an AC maintenance professional for this.

5. Clean the Condenser Unit and Surrounding Area

Since the outdoor unit is exposed to the elements, dirt, leaves, twigs, and other debris can collect on, in, or around it. Remove these and any items or objects nearby. Leave at least two feet of clearance on each side to avoid airflow and heat transfer issues. These simple DIY tasks can protect the condenser unit:

• Remove any nearby storage boxes, bins, or home/garden equipment.
• Wipe the casing with a damp cloth to remove dirt, dust, or plant matter.
• Clean fine debris with a vacuum cleaner and brush attachment.
• Use a garden hose to gently spray the fins clean.
• Carefully straighten any bent fins with a fin straightening tool.

6. Make Sure Your AC System Is Properly Insulated

The insulation surrounding the copper piping, which looks like a black or white foam rubber material, helps maintain thermal efficiency. This is important as the refrigerant flowing through the lines enables your HVAC system to cool your home. Don’t try to replace damaged insulation yourself. If you find material that’s broken, crumbling, or missing and exposed sections of pipe, call a licensed contractor.

7. Schedule a Duct Cleaning Every Few Years

Unlike routine AC maintenance, duct cleanings aren’t recommended often, but can help extend the life of your air conditioner. A buildup of dust and debris can restrict airflow, straining the system and causing damage or a breakdown. It can also lead to poor indoor air quality. Aside from wiping down or removing and washing grilles and cleaning accessible vent spaces, you should hire a professional with the tools and expertise to properly clean ductwork.

8. Schedule Annual Maintenance

Making that phone call or online request every year is an important AC maintenance task. A professional will visit your home to inspect your air conditioner and perform tasks such as:

• Thoroughly clean AC components
• Lubricate the system’s moving parts
• Inspect and tighten electrical connections
• Test all electrical components
• Perform a complete AC tune-up
• Replace the air filter
• Check refrigerant levels
• Check the thermostat
• Inspect the blower motor
• Look for and seal duct leaks
• Inspect the coils for frost or damage
• Clear the condensate drain line

Call TRIO & Air for AC Maintenance

These are some of the most important tasks that can keep your AC system running smoothly, efficiently, and reliably while preventing major repairs. Our highly trained technicians perform a range of tasks during annual air conditioning maintenance. They can work with any make or model and thoroughly inspect, clean, and test it to ensure proper operation and optimal performance. To schedule AC maintenance or learn more about our equipment protection plan, call (415) 234-4728.

Air conditioning repairs in Northern California can be expensive, but you can avoid a costly AC repair by being proactive with at-home and professional maintenance. Like any machine, an air conditioner has parts that wear out. However, equipment malfunctions and breakdowns are not inevitable. You can avoid calling for AC repair near you, and potentially save hundreds or even thousands of dollars (leaving more money in your budget), by following these tips:

• Don’t Forget Routine Maintenance
• Change the Air Filter as Recommended
• Avoid Overusing Your Air Conditioner
• Clean Around the Outdoor Unit
• Look For Dirt Inside the Unit
• Check the Thermostat Regularly
• Keep the Vents Open
• Inspect the Condensate Drain for Blockages

1. Don’t Forget Routine Maintenance

Your air conditioner should be tuned up at least once a year. Annual maintenance is the most effective way to avoid costly AC repairs. The system should be inspected, cleaned, and, if necessary, repaired before the cooling season starts. During maintenance, a technician should:

• Clean the evaporator and condenser coils
• Check refrigerant levels
• Lubricate moving parts
• Tighten electrical connections
• Address any electrical issues
• Look for and seal any duct leaks
• Check the thermostat and system controls
• Clear the condensate drain (if necessary)

2. Change the Air Filter as Recommended

A dirty or clogged air filter can reduce or block airflow. The air conditioner’s manufacturer will recommend the best interval for changing the filter. In general, an AC filter should be changed every one to three months, depending on the system and your home’s indoor air quality. Neglecting to replace the filter can reduce cooling performance, force the system to work harder, and lead to higher energy bills. Low airflow can also cause strain that damages the unit, requiring costly repairs.

3. Avoid Overusing Your Air Conditioner

The more you use your AC, the more wear and tear it will experience. Using an air conditioner less may not seem like an option during a hot summer. However, raising the thermostat by a few degrees not only saves energy but can also reduce the unit's demand. 

How can you do this without sacrificing comfort? Running a ceiling fan can make the temperature feel 3℉ or 4℉ cooler, offsetting a slight increase in the thermostat setting. Also, turn the AC off when you go to work, leave for a vacation, or are otherwise away from home.

4. Clean Around the Outdoor Unit

Debris can restrict airflow and potentially contaminate the system, especially if it builds up around the outdoor unit. Regularly check for leaves, branches, grass, dirt, and other items around the condenser unit. Also, trim foliage back. There should be at least two feet of clearance on all sides.

When cleaning the unit, make sure it is shaded. Direct sunlight can strain the system and overheat the compressor. Additionally, make sure there’s a barrier that prevents small animals from getting into the unit.

5. Look For Dirt Inside the Unit

Your AC’s coils and fins are prone to getting dirty. If they become coated, this can interfere with heat transfer and may also damage the coils, especially if they freeze. Combined with restricted airflow, dirt can cause the system to work harder and less efficiently. The unit can even overheat and break down. 

If you have some experience, you can turn off the system, open the unit, and vacuum out excess dirt. The coils and fins can be cleaned with a soft brush. But this may require removing the fan and other components. Call a professional if you notice the unit is dirty and you haven’t cleaned it before.

6. Check the Thermostat Regularly

The thermostat is a small part of your HVAC system but can malfunction and cause numerous issues. A faulty thermostat can cause your AC to run constantly or short cycle. Avoiding these issues can prevent wear and tear that can damage your air conditioner. 

Look for changes in accuracy to determine if your thermostat needs to be checked by a professional. This can indicate an issue with placement or a low battery. A wiring problem can also affect how the thermostat works and trigger an electric shock or a fire.

7. Keep the Vents Open

Don’t close vents in unused rooms. People often do this thinking they can save energy. However, closed vents can disrupt airflow and create pressure variances that can damage your AC system. Also, make a visual note of where the vents are and avoid blocking them with storage units, furniture, or drapes.

8. Inspect the Condensate Drain for Blockages

The condensate drain is another important part of your AC system. An air conditioner collects moisture from the air, which is removed via the condensate drain. If this drain gets clogged, mold and algae can grow inside it. Water damage can occur if the drain overflows. Since unclogging the line can be a tricky process, it’s best to hire a professional for AC repair. 

Call Trio Heating, Air & Plumbing for AC Repair Near The Greater San Francisco Bay Area

Properly maintaining your air conditioner can avoid major repairs. Call a professional as soon as you notice any signs of trouble, such as reduced cooling performance, strange noises, weak airflow, foul odors, or higher energy bills. Our licensed technicians can diagnose and fix any problem. They’re also familiar with every type of air conditioner and AC component. If you’re dealing with any cooling issues, schedule an AC repair by calling (415) 223-5096 today.

If you live in San Francisco, CA, or elsewhere in the Bay Area, you may wonder which type of AC system is best for your home. One popular choice for many homeowners is a ductless mini-split AC. Like any other home comfort system, there are several important factors to consider before making the switch. The experts at Trio Heating, Air & Plumbing have compiled some helpful ductless mini-split pros and cons to help you determine if this system is the right choice for you.

What Is a Ductless Mini-Split System?

A ductless mini-split system is just as the name implies: a ductless HVAC system that does not require any ductwork to operate. How does a ductless mini-split work? These home comfort systems include an outdoor unit (a condenser/compressor) and at least one indoor unit connected to refrigerant lines, usually run through a small hole in an exterior wall. This type of system is renowned for its exceptional energy efficiency and the ability to provide zoned cooling, offering greater control over temperature and energy usage in your home, making it one of the most energy-efficient air conditioning options available.

The Top Benefits of Mini-Split ACs

Here are some of the top mini-split AC benefits to consider:

• Excellent energy efficiency: Because mini-splits don’t use ductwork, they’re much more energy efficient and deliver treated air directly to individual rooms in your home, leading to significant energy savings.
• Zoned temperature control: Another of the many advantages of ductless mini-split systems is that they allow for individual temperature control in different rooms or zones, so you only need to heat or cool specific areas as needed.
• Quiet operation: These systems are well-known for having quiet operation that’s much less noisy than today’s traditional HVAC systems.
• Easy to install: A ductless mini-split installation is significantly easier than a traditional installation, as it requires no ductwork.
• Space-saving: Mini-split systems are compact and small, freeing up space and providing an effective home comfort system without occupying a lot of room.

Potential Drawbacks of Going Ductless

As you ponder whether a ductless AC is worth it, it’s important to consider the potential drawbacks of choosing this system for your home.

• Higher upfront costs: Mini-splits tend to be more expensive upfront to install than traditional HVAC systems, especially when multiple indoor units are chosen.
• Aesthetic concerns: Although they are small and compact, mini-splits are typically mounted on the wall or ceiling, which may not be a desirable feature for all customers to have inside their homes.
• Performance limits: A mini-split system works effectively in both warm and cold climates, but it may experience some performance limitations in areas with extreme temperature fluctuations.
• Maintenance needs: Routine ductless mini-split maintenance requires regular air filter changes for every indoor unit, and drainage issues may lead to serious water damage if not caught promptly.

Mini-Split vs. Central Air: Key Differences

Here are some of the key differences between a mini-split vs. central air:

• Central air provides whole-home cooling, while a mini-split system only treats the air in specific rooms where the indoor units are installed.
• Installing central air typically costs less money upfront, unless extensive ductwork repairs or new duct installations are required.
• Having a mini-split system reduces airflow issues and air loss, as a significant amount of air is lost through cracks, gaps, and improperly installed ductwork in traditional central air systems.

Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Choose a Ductless System

Before deciding if this is the right type of system for you, consider who should and shouldn’t choose a ductless system.

Who Should Choose Ductless

• People who live in smaller homes that don’t have a lot of square footage
• Those in older homes where installing new ductwork is required for traditional central air
• Homeowners who are concerned about energy efficiency and energy costs
• Anyone who prefers a quiet system that offers zoned heating and cooling control

Who Shouldn’t Choose Ductless

• People living in larger homes that require more consistent, whole-home cooling and heating
• Those who live in areas with extreme temperatures, and therefore need a more powerful system
• Homeowners who don’t like the idea of visible units in different rooms
• People who live in homes with existing ductwork and want to pay a lower upfront cost

Common Misconceptions About Ductless HVAC

There are a few common misconceptions about ductless HVAC systems. Some think they’re only suitable for small homes, but mini-splits work well if you use certain rooms more often and don’t mind visible units. Others believe they’re noisy or expensive to maintain, but they’re quieter than traditional systems and have fewer moving parts, leading to less frequent and less costly repairs.

Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings Over Time

The best ductless AC units should be appropriately sized for your home, have a high SEER rating, and be manufactured by a reliable brand. Installing a ductless mini-split system helps you save on energy and other home comfort costs over time.

• No duct losses: Ductless systems prevent energy loss caused by leaky ductwork in traditional HVAC setups.
• Zoned control: Cool or heat specific rooms as needed to reduce energy use.
• High efficiency: Mini-splits offer high SEER ratings for better energy performance.
• Lower long-term costs: Higher upfront costs are offset by monthly energy savings.

Talk to Trio Heating, Air & Plumbing for a Professional Recommendation

Trio Heating, Air & Plumbing is a trusted HVAC expert in energy-efficient and modern AC solutions for your Greater San Francisco Bay Area home. Whether you want to upgrade your current system or you’re building a new home, we have a variety of options available to you. To get expert recommendations on whether a ductless mini-split is the right solution for your cooling and heating needs, contact us today!

To benefit from AC replacement, you must find the right AC unit for your home. It’s important to consult with an air conditioning service contractor. Whether your existing system is reaching the end of its life or is outdated, you have an opportunity to find a more energy-efficient system. However, ignoring important details or making a mistake can have costly consequences.

Finding the right AC unit requires knowing the size of the model you need. We’ll look at numerous factors related to air conditioner sizing and other variables to discuss with your HVAC contractor. 

Square Footage

Square footage isn’t the only size variable to consider when selecting an AC unit. Nonetheless, the square footage of individual rooms and your entire home is usually the first place to start. The larger your home, the more cooling capacity you need. Miscalculating capacity can mean getting too much or too little cool air and spending more on energy.

Ceiling Height

Ceiling heights aren’t included in square footage, but if your home has higher ceiling heights than average, it will require more power to be properly cooled. Ceiling height also influences air circulation. You’ll need a higher-capacity unit to counteract the accumulation of rising warmer air. Irregular airflow patterns caused by sloped or vaulted ceilings must also be considered. 

Number of Windows

It may seem less obvious, but windows have a big impact on an AC unit’s efficiency. If you have a lot of south- and west-facing windows, more sunlight causes higher heat gain, requiring a stronger AC. Other window-related AC sizing factors include:

• Number of Windows: More windows mean more opportunities for heat gain and air leakage.
• Age of Windows: Older windows tend to let more air seep in and are less insulated.
• Window Coverings: Blinds, curtains, and other coverings help windows be more efficient by blocking out sunlight.

Insulation

Insulation in walls, ceilings, and attics can affect AC efficiency. Each insulating material has an R-value; the higher the number, the greater a material’s thermal resistance (ability to prevent heat transfer). Replacing old materials or filling in poorly insulated gaps or spots with high R-value insulation can reduce energy consumption.

Climate

The climate conditions in your area determine how much cooling you need. A smaller air conditioner won’t perform well in soaring summer temperatures, and if your region sees cooler summers, a larger system may not be cost-effective. Nonetheless, you must consider the temperature range throughout the year, along with typical humidity levels.

About Calculating Cooling Capacity

The capacity of an air conditioner is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs). The larger your home, the more BTUs you’ll need, but the requirements vary. For example, a well-insulated, shaded room generally needs 25 to 30 BTUs per square foot, but rooms with average insulation and moderate sun exposure may need 30 to 35 BTUs per square foot. However, a brightly lit room with poor insulation can require 35 to 40 BTUs per square foot.

Therefore, capacity requirements can vary significantly. Other factors that influence BTU requirements include the number of occupants, lighting fixtures, and the presence of heat-generating appliances. For a novice, working all these variables in a calculation can be overwhelming.

An HVAC professional has an easier way to perform a load calculation and find the right AC for your home. They may use formulas to input specific numbers. Or, they can use load calculation software tools that further streamline the process. This means load calculations can take less time, but this doesn’t minimize their importance at all.

About Efficiency Ratings

Every air conditioning unit has an efficiency rating on its label. You can use this to compare units and predict how a system will operate under standard conditions. Energy efficiency ratings include:

• Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER): This is an air conditioner’s cooling efficiency throughout a typical cooling season. Higher SEER ACs cost more upfront but consume less electricity and can save money over time.
• Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER): By measuring a unit’s cooling capacity under standard conditions, its EER can estimate how it will perform during peak demand and predict how it will operate during extreme temperatures.

Finding the Right Type of AC Unit

Sizing, efficiency, and other factors are heavily considered. It’s also important to consider the best type of unit. If you have a small home or a smaller room to cool, a window unit is an option. Central air conditioning systems are often used to cool entire homes; they use ducts to distribute air throughout the space. 

However, a split unit is better suited for cooling a smaller space or individual room. More advanced solutions include heat pumps (provide both heating and cooling) that are even more efficient. Another option is a mini-split; it allows you to zone your home for different levels of heating or cooling in different locations.

Additional Considerations

An AC unit must fit in the available space. If you have a small home, you may have fewer options. Also, consider the HVAC equipment you have. Does it match the AC unit you want to install? Will the new AC and your ductwork be compatible? If your ducts aren’t the appropriate length and diameter, issues with air velocity and pressure drop can affect performance and efficiency. To avoid persistent issues, you may want to consider replacing your entire HVAC system.

Contact Trio Heating, Air & Plumbing

In our years of serving homeowners in and around The Greater San Francisco Bay Area, our licensed AC technicians have installed high-efficiency cooling systems tailored to each client’s needs. We use the highest-quality products and brands and guarantee the highest quality of work. During AC replacement, our team advises you on the ideal model for your home and will remove your old unit, install the new system, and test it. To schedule air conditioning installation in Santa Clara County or San Mateo County, call (415) 223-1647 today.