Why Size Matters for Air Conditioning

Monday, June 20th, 2016 at 11:00 am

If you're looking for a new air conditioning system to keep you cool this summer, there are a few things that you should keep in mind. Types, models, and efficiency ratings are all important, but so is the size of the system. Whether you're using a heat pump, a ductless system, or any other type of air conditioner, size absolutely matters. Let's take a look at what can happen if you install an air conditioner that is too small or too large for your home.

Too Large

Air conditioners of all sizes are designed to generate a set amount of output in a certain amount of time. This is called the air conditioner's cycle. If the air conditioner is too large, it will generate too much output to complete its entire cycle. The thermostat will shut the system down early, a behavior called short cycling. Short cycling dramatically increases the amount of strain on the system, causing parts to wear out and develop problems more often. A system that is allowed to short cycle for too long will be less effective, and have a much shorter lifespan.

Too Small

An air conditioner that is too small cannot put out enough output to efficiently cool the home in which it is installed. In order to compensate for this inefficiency, the system has to stay on for longer than it was designed to do. This is the opposite problem than if the system were too large, but it has the same result. The wear and tear on the system will increase, it will break down more often, and it will have a shorter lifespan.

American Heating & Cooling offers a full range of air conditioning installation services throughout South Williamson, KY. If you need air conditioning services of any kind, call today to schedule an appointment.