With Alberta’s summer temperatures rising, our short summers are becoming (almost) as intense as our long winters. Adding central air conditioning to your home is probably on your mind, if not your to-do list.
Before you take the leap, learn what goes into your coolest investment. We’ve got you covered with this ultimate guide to A/C — just for you, Alberta!
Alberta’s unique climate presents some specific considerations when it comes to choosing the right air conditioner. Here are the main factors to weigh in your search for a new air conditioner.
Efficient models give your home a cold-air boost while keeping energy costs under control. Better cooling efficiency keeps your air crisp and comfy, working more quickly than a less efficient unit.
Lower energy usage is good for the planet, too! Look for the ENERGY STAR symbol when purchasing a new unit to get the best in energy efficiency.
Unlike humid regions, Alberta’s semi-arid climate means less worry about moisture removal, focusing more on cooling efficiency. Features that offer extra dehumidification aren't as useful here.
All air conditioners make some noise from fans as air blows through your home and air ducts. The sound should be close to white noise: expect a steady, low hum.
Poor quality units or shoddy installation can lead to annoying A/C noises. This could mean issues like leaking refrigerant or damaged components. Keep your environment comfortable and soothing in all ways by getting your air conditioning installed professionally. A heating and cooling pro can make sure your hot summer days stay cool and tranquil.
Consider factors like window size, insulation quality, and ceiling height to determine the ideal cooling capacity for your home.
Larger homes require air conditioners with higher cooling capacities to effectively cool all the rooms. If your A/C is too small for your home, it will struggle to maintain a comfortable temperature. This leads to uneven cooling and higher energy bills.
If your A/C is too large, it may cycle on and off frequently. This results in unnecessary wear and tear and reduced efficiency.
The size and layout of your home impact the design and configuration of the ductwork. Properly sized ducts let cooled air flow efficiently to all areas of your home. Avoid excessive pressure or airflow restrictions by considering your duct system when selecting a new unit.
Insulation & sealing
The insulation levels and sealing quality of your home directly affect its heat gain and loss. Well-insulated homes with tight seals retain cool air better, requiring less energy for cooling.
Poorly insulated homes with drafty areas are a recipe for energy waste. Unsealed homes demand a more powerful A/C unit to make up for heat sneaking in through the cracks.
Larger homes often benefit from zoning systems that divide the space into separate areas with individual temperature controls. This saves energy by directing cold where needed most.
When choosing an air conditioner, consider whether zoning capabilities are necessary to effectively cool your entire home while minimizing energy consumption. Your best bet is to hire a pro air conditioner installer who has experience with larger homes and zone setups.
While efficient air conditioners can cost around 35 cents per hour to run, actual expenses depend on usage and home size.
Set your air conditioner to maintain a constant temperature. You can also invest in a programmable smart thermostat for custom cooling settings.
Most central A/C systems last 12-15 years, with proper upkeep and regular tune-ups.
Installations typically take 8-14 hours, depending on home specifics.
To keep your A/C humming along smoothly, follow these maintenance tips:
Alberta summers may not be as epic as our winters, but they certainly pack a punch. Extreme heat leads to heat stroke, dehydration and death each year in our province. Your home should be a safe respite away from high temperatures.
A central A/C unit keeps home air crisp, but here are some other summer safety upgrades that can help you beat the heat:
An inefficient or broken air conditioning is more than just a buzzkill. A malfunctioning unit can mean repair bills, higher energy usage or an impending breakdown.
Pay attention to signs that your A/C unit is not working as intended. Signs include:
Any of these issues could be symptoms that your unit needs some love. Call a pro for Air Conditioner Repair to get back on track!
For help with air conditioning in Alberta, count on the team at Rümi. We offer a full suite of A/C services:
Psst... You don't have to worry about A/C repairs if you have a home protection plan. Check out our Home Systems Protection Plan or Whole Home Protection Plan for more info.
