WHAT TYPES OF AIR CONDITIONERS ARE THERE?
Split System (also referred to as a Central Air System)
Made up of an outdoor unit and an indoor unit that work together to heat and cool a home.
Packaged System
A system where the air conditioner and a furnace are combined in the same unit.
Ductless System (also referred to as a Mini Split System)
Mini splits require no ductwork and are a great choice for baseboard heat conversions, attic spaces, garages, detached art studios, ADUs, and more.
WHEN IS IT TIME TO REPLACE MY OLD AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM?
If your current system is not working properly and you are going to have to pay to repair it anyway, it often makes financial sense just to get a new one. Rather than paying for extensive repairs and costly R-22 refrigerant on an older system, you will probably be better off replacing your older system with a newer, more energy efficient model. The monthly energy savings alone can make it worth the transition.
WHAT SIZE AIR CONDITIONER SHOULD I INSTALL IN MY HOUSE?
A correctly sized system isn't just based on the size of the structure or what you have currently if this is an AC replacement. Factors includes: type of house and walls, type and size of heating system, type and size of windows, insulation, basement and attic conditions, house orientation, and so on. The only accurate way to determine the correct capacity of a new air conditioner is to have a trained technician visit your home.
WHAT IS SEER?
SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) is a measurement of a unit's efficiency. The higher the number the higher the efficiency and resulting energy costs savings.
WHAT IS A TON?
A ton is a measurement of a unit's size. Proper selection of the right tonnage for your air conditioner is very important.
CAN I GET MORE POWER BY INCREASING THE TON SIZE OF MY AC?
This is not a good idea. Here’s why: A system that is too large will cool your house quickly, but you may not feel comfortable. That's because it will satisfy the temperature set on the thermostat before it has removed sufficient moisture from the air, leaving you feeling sticky and humid. This could even lead to moisture and mold problems. And, the stress of short-cycling (too many starts and stops) will shorten the life of your equipment.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I GET A SMALLER SIZE THAN IS RECOMMENDED?
A system that is too small will not cool your home adequately, especially on hot days when you need it the most. The air conditioner will run constantly in the Summer to try and keep up with the demand, costing you more in energy bills.
HOW LONG SHOULD MY AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM LAST?
Most of the newer models will last up to 15 years (sometimes longer) if regular cleaning and maintenance are performed properly. With that being said, many factors affect the lifespan of your AC unit, including the quality of installation and intensity of use.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE YOU TO INSTALL A CENTRAL OR DUCTLESS AIR CONDITIONING UNIT?
Most of our air conditioning installations can be completed in one day, although some installs take longer.
HOW MUCH DOES AN AIR CONDITIONER COST?
According to Home Advisor, the average Portland homeowner will spend between $3055-4772 to install central air. This is a fair ballpark for the cost of a 13 or 14 SEER AC, but each home is different and should be estimated for it’s unique needs. Contact us today and get a FREE estimate.
CAN I GET A QUOTE OVER THE PHONE?
It’s hard to determine the cost of a new system without visiting the home. We will discuss ballparks with you but will not provide a final proposal without visiting your home.
MY HOME DOES NOT HAVE DUCTWORK. CAN I STILL GET AIR CONDITIONING?
Absolutely. Today, simple ductless air conditioning options make it possible to install a quiet, efficient air conditioning system in your home even if it doesn’t have ductwork.
Ductless air conditioning systems (often referred to as Mini split systems) consist of one or more indoor air distribution units linked by refrigeration lines to an outdoor compressor. Installing ductless air conditioning costs a little more than standard central air-conditioning systems but much less than the cost of installing ductwork and a central air system. They are extremely energy efficient and affordable to run. Until the end of 2017 this type of system qualifies for a $1200-1300 tax rebate and may qualify for cash rebates from Energy Trust.
Whether you are interested in a central or split whole house air conditioning system — or you want to explore ductless cooling options for a single room (or multiple zones not on the central system) — Orbit Heating and Cooling has a solution for you. Check out our specials and the full list of products and services, then give Orbit a call at 503-621-4319.