Get matched with top heating and air conditioning pros in Chesaning, MI

Traditional central air conditioning systems require ductwork to circulate air throughout the home. Alternatively, you can add air conditioning with a mini-split ductless air conditioning system, which can be just as energy efficient as a central air conditioner. This type of system consists of two units–an outside unit that holds the compressor and condenser and an indoor unit that holds an air-handler. With multi-zone ductless systems, there are multiple indoor air handlers tied to a single outdoor compressor/condenser, allowing the system to cool multiple rooms.

To keep your air conditioner in good working condition, you should have it serviced by a professional at least once per year, ideally in the spring before the cooling season begins. If your AC unit is 10 years or older, consider servicing it twice a year (once in the spring and once in the fall) to catch potential problems early and help it reach its full lifespan. During a service visit, a technician will inspect, clean, and replace parts as needed. Regular maintenance helps avoid costly repairs. As a DIY task, you can also clean the evaporator coils annually.

Most units are designed only to cool the house down to 20 degrees less than the temperature outside. This means that if it’s 99 degrees Fahrenheit out and you’re trying to cool your home down to 65 degrees, you’ll notice your AC is struggling. 

Lower the blinds on all your windows, turn on your ceiling fans, and keep the thermostat at a consistent temperature to help your AC do its job. Investing in an HVAC maintenance plan also helps because pros will come out to inspect and tune up your unit regularly, keeping it in optimal working condition.

Choosing a unit with higher BTUs can use more electricity if the BTUs are more than what’s necessary for your room size. However, choosing an AC with BTUs that match the size of your room or house, your unit will cool your space efficiently. On the flip side, choosing a system with not enough BTUs can cause the system to work harder to try to cool the space, leading to more electricity consumption and higher energy bills.