There are many factors to consider when selecting an air conditioning system and unfortunately, homeowners don’t always make the best choice – especially when it comes to size.
One of the most common misconceptions about air conditioners is; the bigger the system, the faster it will cool a space. Although this seems logical, air conditioners simply don’t work that way.
Ultimately, different spaces have different cooling needs. A 500 square foot studio, for example, won’t need as much cooling power as a 4,000 square foot, multi-level home. Yet each year, homeowners invest in new air conditioning systems that are too big for their space.
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4 Signs of an Oversized Air Conditioner
From feelings of exasperation to increased energy costs, an oversized air conditioner can cause discord in your home. But all hope is not lost, Homeowner. Read on to learn the signs of an oversized air conditioner and what you can do if your AC is too large for your space.
1. Your AC System Short Cycles
If you’re not sure if your air conditioning system is too big for your home, the length of the system’s cycle holds many clues.
All you need to do is; time a cycle on a hot day (not difficult to do in Florida). If your system operates on consistent cycles and keeps your home cool, you’re in luck. However, if your system short cycles, or only runs for a few minutes at a time and then shuts off, your system may be too big.
2. Your Home Is Uncomfortable
Your AC system has one job: to keep your home’s temperature comfortable. Unfortunately, an oversized system will have a hard time achieving this. You may find that one room is always too warm, while another is just right. In any case, if your home’s temperature never seems to be comfortable and consistent, your AC system could be too big.
3. Your Home Is Too Humid
When an AC system is too big, it won’t run regular cycles. As a result, the cycles will not be long enough to remove humidity from the air (which is a big deal living in Florida). Generally, it takes a cycle of 20 to 30 minutes to cool and dehumidify the air.
4. Increased Electricity Bills
If your AC system frequently powers up and down by short cycling, your energy budget will take a hit. If you’ve noticed that your energy costs are higher than you believe they should be, your AC system may be too big.
How to Correct an Oversized Air Conditioner
Air conditioners are a big investment so no one wants to hear that their AC system is too big for their home. Fortunately, there are a few ways to address the issue.
1. Buy a stand-alone dehumidifier
If your AC system is too big for your home but you can’t afford to invest in a new one then a stand-alone dehumidifier may be a good choice for you. When used in conjunction with an air conditioning system, a stand-alone dehumidifier will remove excess moisture from the air, which will help if your home’s air is too humid.
2. Talk to a professional about adding ductwork
In some cases, installing additional air ducts to a portion of your home that isn’t air-conditioned (like the garage, for instance) can disperse the excess air of an oversized system. You’ll want to get an opinion from your trusted AC technician for this one.
3. Replace the air conditioner
This might not be what you want to hear, but sometimes the best option is to replace the system. While it is an expensive choice, when your home is comfortable and your energy costs are reasonable, you’ll be glad you made this decision.
What Size Air Conditioner Is Right for My Home?
Before investing in any AC system, it’s important to determine the load calculation for your home’s size and layout.
While a local HVAC professional can help you with this, the general rule of thumb is that one ton of AC capacity will cool approximately 500 square feet. So if your home is 1,500 square feet, a two to three-ton unit would be best.
Keep in mind, that there are other factors to consider, such as the layout of your home, so always consult with your local HVAC pros.
Find the Right AC System for Your Home With Sansone
Living in Florida, your AC system is the MVP of your home. But with all the different makes and models to choose from, how do you know which system is best for your space?
If you’re looking to upgrade your home’s AC system or if your current system is showing signs that it’s too big for your space, we want to help.
From repairs to AC replacement, contact Sansone today for all of your AC needs in South Florida.
Broward: (954) 800-2858
Palm Beach: (561) 701-8274
St. Lucie: (772) 879-5656
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I correct an oversized AC Unit?
A: You can buy a stand-alone dehumidifier, talk to a professional about adding ductwork, or replace the air conditioner. An expert at Sansone Air Conditioning can help you find a solution when you have an oversized air conditioner.
Q: What are the signs of an oversized AC unit?
A: The signs of having an oversized AC unit are that your AC system short cycles, your home is uncomfortable, your home is too humid, and you have increased electricity bills.