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Solar HVAC: What You Need to Know

Hi, my name is Suzanna. When the old HVAC system in my home began to fail, I decided to invest in a new one. Over the past few years, I have become increasingly environmentally aware, so I wanted my new HVAC system to be as green as possible. I contacted an HVAC contractor and discussed what I wanted, and they suggested I have a solar powered HVAC system installed in my home. I did a little more research and I was really impressed by the solar option as it would save me money and help to save the planet. I decided to start this blog to encourage others to explore solar HVAC systems.

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Solar HVAC: What You Need to Know

Tips for Finding and Installing a Home Air Conditioner

by Yolanda Mason

An air conditioner will keep your home fresh regardless of the outside temperature. However, it can be confusing to go through the many options to find and install a suitable model. Here are a few tips to help.

Split System or Ducted System

A key decision is whether to install a split system or a ducted unit. A split system can cool one room (or several if it's a multi-unit system), whereas ducted air conditioning can cool an entire house (wherever the ducts lead). Even though ducted air conditioning is a whole-house system, it can have a zoning feature that lets you select where the cool air is directed. Thus, consider when choosing air conditioning whether you want to limit its effect to a room or two or whether you want the capacity to cool the whole house.

Discreet Aesthetic

Another aspect that may play a lesser role in your decision-making is how discreet the air conditioning system is. If you want it to be almost invisible, a ducted model will deliver this the most. In these systems, the operating unit is hidden in the ceiling. As it generates cool air, it blows it through the duct network that leads to room vents. These minimal vents are the only sign of the air conditioning.

A split system, on the other hand, has a working unit on the walls of the room or area you want to cool. Many of these have a sleek and attractive design, but they are still prominent in comparison to vents.

Placing the Indoor Component

Whether you choose a ducted or split system, you need to decide where to install the indoor and outdoor units. The indoor part of a split system should be put in a central part of the room so that cool air can flow to all areas. Of course, it should be a spot where everyone in the household enjoys spending time and will appreciate the comfortable temperature.

An air conditioning installation expert will be able to tell you where the indoor unit of a ducted system should go. This may possibly be in the crawlspace. Where it goes depends on the structure and architecture of your home. The contractors may need to reinforce the building to hold the weight of the machinery.

Placing the Outdoor Unit

The placement of the outdoor unit for both the split system and ducted units is important. There should be enough room for this component without bushes or trees blocking airflow. The outdoor unit releases the heat it absorbs from your house, and to do this, it needs an open area. It's also best that the outdoor part doesn't sit in direct sunlight, as it may overheat.

If you need help with an air conditioning installation, talk to a contractor in your area. 

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