Lee’s Summit Heating & Cooling installs, repairs, and tunes-up air conditioners throughout Lee’s Summit and Blue Springs. Learn everything you need to know about buying an air conditioner in Missouri with our 2023 buyer’s guide.
Owning an air conditioner is practically a must if you want to experience Missouri’s hot midwestern summers in comfort—but if you don’t have one yet (or if you need to replace an old model), you’ll need to learn about what current air conditioners can offer. Fortunately, you’re in the right place.
Lee’s Summit Heating & Cooling has provided air conditioning installations across Lee’s Summit and Blue Springs, as well as repair services and tune-ups. Below, you’ll find our comprehensive buyer’s guide for air conditioners in 2023, including everything you need to know about sizing, installing, and maintaining your new cooling system.
The Benefits of a High-Efficiency Air Conditioner in 2023
High-efficiency air conditioners offer numerous benefits for homeowners, including:
- Lower energy consumption: High-efficiency AC units consume less energy, reducing your energy bills and overall carbon footprint. Current models may be anywhere from 20% to 50% more efficient than models built over 10 years ago—which can save you hundreds of dollars per year on your utility bills.
- Better temperature control: These systems provide more consistent and precise temperature control, ensuring improved comfort in your home.
- Enhanced indoor air quality: High-efficiency units often include advanced filtration systems, which can reduce airborne pollutants and allergens in your home. It’s also worth considering an indoor air quality solution for your home if you want to ensure that the air you breathe is as fresh as possible.
- Quieter operation: While older air conditioners have a tendency to whirr or whine loudly during use, high-efficiency air conditioners typically operate with less noise, providing a more peaceful environment.
- Rebates and incentives: Some high-efficiency AC models qualify for tax credits, rebates, or other incentives, making them more cost-effective in the long run. For example, air conditioners with SEER2 ratings of 16 or more installed between January 1st 2023 and January 1st 2032 allow you to claim up to 30% or $600 of the cost of your project in tax credits (whichever is lower).
Different Types of Air Conditioners
When it comes to selecting your new air conditioner, there are several different types to choose from. These include:Central Air Conditioners
These systems cool the entire home through a network of ducts and vents, providing even temperature distribution. They are suitable for larger homes and are more energy-efficient compared to window units.
Pros:
- Even temperature distribution throughout the home
- Ideal for larger homes
- More energy-efficient compared to window units
- Enhanced indoor air quality due to advanced filtration systems in newer models
- Can be integrated with smart thermostats and home automation systems
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost and installation complexity
- Requires ductwork, which may not be present in all homes
- Yearly maintenance recommended for ducts and vents
- Inefficient for cooling individual rooms (this can be fixed by creating multiple cooling zones)
Ductless Mini-Split Systems
These AC units consist of an outdoor compressor and one or more indoor air-handling units, connected by refrigerant lines. They are perfect for homes without ductwork or for cooling individual rooms.
Pros:
- No ductwork required, making them suitable for homes without existing ducts
- Energy-efficient due to the absence of duct losses
- Individual room temperature control
- Quieter operation compared to window and portable units
- Can be integrated with smart thermostats
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost compared to window and portable units
- Aesthetics: indoor units are visible on walls or ceilings
- May require multiple indoor units for larger homes
Window Units
A compact and affordable option, window air conditioners are suitable for smaller spaces and can be easily installed and removed.
Pros:
- Affordable and easy to install
- Suitable for smaller spaces
- Can be easily removed and stored during cooler months
- No need for ductwork
Cons:
- Less energy-efficient compared to central and ductless systems
- Limited to cooling only the room where installed
- May block window view and natural light
- Increased noise levels
Portable Units
These air conditioners can be moved from room to room and are ideal for cooling specific areas as needed.
Pros:
- Easy to move from room to room as needed
- No permanent installation required
- No need for ductwork
- Suitable for spot cooling
Cons:
- Less energy-efficient compared to central and ductless systems
- Limited cooling capacity, making them unsuitable for larger spaces
- May require frequent emptying of condensation trays
- Increased noise levels compared to other options
How to Size an Air Conditioner in Missouri
Proper sizing of your new air conditioner is crucial for ensuring its optimal performance and efficiency. There are many factors involved in sizing an AC unit, but some of the most important ones include:
- Square footage: The size of your home plays a significant role in determining the appropriate cooling capacity for your AC unit (measured in BTU). Larger homes require more powerful air conditioners.
- Insulation and building materials: Well-insulated homes with energy-efficient windows and doors require less cooling capacity, since they do not leak as much cold air to the outside during hot weather.
- Climate: Missouri’s hot and humid summers require more cooling capacity compared to milder climates, so air conditioners here typically need to be more powerful than in states with more temperate climates.
- Occupancy and usage patterns: The number of people living in your home and their cooling preferences can impact the cooling capacity your AC needs.
Since buying the wrong size air conditioner can create efficiency problems that cost you more money than necessary to run your AC over time, it’s vital to make sure you’re getting a model that can meet your home’s unique needs. When you call us for your installation, our professional HVAC technicians will perform a load calculation (called a Manual-J) to determine the right size of air conditioner for your home.
Smart Technology to Consider for Efficient AC Use
Investing in smart technology can enhance the efficiency and convenience of your AC system. Consider the following options:
- Smart thermostats: These devices can be controlled remotely through a smartphone app, allowing you to adjust temperature settings and create customized cooling schedules. Many smart thermostats also learn your preferences and adjust settings automatically to maximize energy savings.
- Home automation systems: Integrating your air conditioner with a home automation system can help you manage your home’s energy consumption more effectively.
- Zoning systems: Strategically placing dampers in your home’s ductwork allows you to divide your home into separate cooling zones if you have a central air conditioner, which lets you adjust temperatures independently for different areas.
Should You Hire Professionals to Install, Service, & Maintain Your AC?
Hiring professionals for AC installation, service, and maintenance is highly recommended for the following reasons:
- Proper installation: Professional technicians have the expertise to ensure your air conditioner is installed correctly, which is crucial for optimal performance, efficiency, and longevity.
- Safety: Working with electrical components and refrigerants can be dangerous if not handled by trained professionals.
- Warranty protection: Many manufacturers require professional installation and maintenance for warranty coverage.
- Expert advice: Professional HVAC technicians can help you select the right AC system for your home and provide guidance on energy-saving strategies.
- Regular maintenance: Regular maintenance by professionals can extend the life of your AC system, improve efficiency, and prevent costly repairs.
Investing in a high-efficiency air conditioner, choosing the appropriate type and size, incorporating smart technology, and hiring professionals for installation and maintenance are essential considerations for homeowners in Lee’s Summit and Blue Springs. Use what you’ve learned above to make informed decisions about the cooling technology you use and contact our team to learn more about the best way to enjoy a comfortable, energy-efficient home.
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