Keeping your high efficiency A/C performing at its best requires attention throughout the summer from you and a licensed HVAC contractor. These systems earn their ratings under ideal testing conditions. Replicating that environment for your own air conditioner involves four steps: 

1. Having the unit sized correctly. Sizing a central air conditioner involves a detailed load calculation of your home. The factors that contribute to the cooling load include the size of your home, its layout, energy efficiency and the heat you generate inside. A system that's too large uses more energy, tends to break down faster and leaves humidity behind. An undersized A/C system won't be able to keep your home comfortable during our hottest weather.
2. Assuring the right refrigerant level. The right amount of refrigerant in your cooling system makes a significant difference. Measuring the refrigerant should be part of the annual service from an HVAC specialist, since it requires special equipment and a license for proper handling of the refrigerant.
3. Maintaining sufficient airflow. Keeping the air filter for the blower clean improves high efficiency A/C performance. Dirt slows the airflow through the blower and it will take the system longer to reach the thermostat's settings, increasing your bill. The extra running time also increases wear on the equipment. 
   
   Keeping the outdoor condenser clean and unobstructed also improves the airflow going through the fins and coils. The hot refrigerant from your home enters these coils; keeping them dust-free speeds the cooling process. 
4. Keeping ductwork sealed. Leaks in the ductwork can occur at any time and increase energy bills quickly. If you notice that a space or room in your home becomes warmer than others, you may have a breach or leak in the ductwork. If you can access them, seal them with mastic sealant or metal tape. Duct tape will not secure the ducts, since the adhesive is short-lived. HVAC professionals can test ducts for leakage and seal them, reducing energy bills and improving indoor air quality. 

To learn more about high efficiency A/C performance, contact Tri-County Heating & Cooling. We've provided trusted HVAC services for the West Chester area for more than 40 years. 

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