How to Choose the Best AC System: Home Size, Brands & More

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Don’t wait another second — contact the Carl J. Wendler Heating & Cooling team today to start jump start your project!

Choosing the right air conditioning system can feel like a lot to take in. Between figuring out the right size for your home, keeping energy bills in check, and sorting through today’s features and brands, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

That’s where Wendler Heating & Cooling comes in. We help homeowners every day find AC systems that beat the heat, stay efficient, and match their everyday needs. To make things easier, we’re breaking down what really matters — in a simple, straightforward way that takes the stress out of your decision.

Reach out now to learn more or to schedule an upgrade. We handle air conditioner installations and mini-split installations for all models and brands.

Understanding Your Home’s Cooling Needs

Your home’s square footage provides a starting point for determining the right size for the best air conditioning unit, but it is only one piece of the puzzle. The amount of insulation, the number of windows, the ceiling height, and your home’s unique layout all significantly influence the cooling load and overall heat gain. However, getting the correct size is extremely important.

An undersized unit will struggle constantly, failing to cool your space, while an oversized system will cycle on and off too quickly, leading to poor humidity control and unnecessary wear on the compressor. A professional load calculation, which analyzes all these variables using specialized software, is the only way to get a truly accurate assessment for system sizing.

Types of Air Conditioning Systems

Selecting the best air conditioning systems for your property involves exploring the different configurations available today. Each type offers distinct advantages depending on your home’s structure, existing ductwork, and specific cooling goals. We can help you navigate these options to find a perfect match for your lifestyle and our local climate.

  • Central Air Conditioning: Uses ductwork to move cooled air throughout the house. Common in homes with existing ducts.
  • Ductless Mini-Splits: Allow for zoned cooling in specific rooms without ductwork. These use a wall-mounted air handler in each zone.
  • Heat Pump Systems: Handles both cooling and heating. This option works well in moderate climates where winters are not severe.
  • Hybrid Systems: Combines a heat pump with a gas furnace. Useful for climates with cold winters and hot summers.

Importance of SEER Ratings and Energy Efficiency

The seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) rating indicates how efficiently an air conditioning system converts electricity into cooling power, with higher numbers representing better efficiency and lower operating costs. Current federal regulations require new systems to have a minimum SEER rating of 13 in northern states and 14 in southern regions, though Energy Star-certified units typically achieve ratings of 15 or higher.

Investing in a high-efficiency system reduces your monthly utility bills significantly, especially during peak summer months when your air conditioning runs most frequently. While higher SEER units cost more upfront, the long-term savings on electricity consumption often justify the initial investment, particularly in regions with extreme summer weather conditions. Plus, you’ll reduce your carbon footprint, ultimately leading to a greener planet and more green in your wallet.

Reliable Air Conditioning Brands

HVAC brands vary in quality, longevity, and repair history. At Wendler Heating & Cooling, we work with trusted systems that perform well across different homes and weather patterns. Some of the best air conditioning systems available today come from these top manufacturers.

American Standard

American Standard has built a strong reputation for reliable performance and quiet operation. Their compressors are known to hold up well over time. Homeowners appreciate the consistent temperature control and low noise levels.

Rheem

Rheem offers units with strong SEER ratings and solid durability. These systems include advanced humidity controls and smart thermostat compatibility. Their support for hybrid and heat pump configurations makes them a practical fit for mixed climates.

Mitsubishi

Mitsubishi excels with ductless technology. Their systems offer excellent airflow and individual zone control. Homes with multiple levels or limited ductwork benefit from the flexibility these setups provide.

Carrier

Carrier delivers some of the best air conditioning unit options for those wanting a balance between performance and affordability. Their newer models integrate with smart technology and use advanced refrigerant systems for lower consumption and better climate control.

Smart Features and Technology to Consider

Modern air conditioning extends beyond simple cooling; it incorporates technology that enhances your comfort and control. These intelligent features can help you manage your home’s temperature, improve air quality, and reduce energy consumption with minimal effort. Integrating these tools can transform how you interact with your home’s climate system.

  • Smart Thermostat: A smart thermostat learns your schedule and preferences, automatically adjusting the temperature to save energy when you’re away and create comfort when you’re home.
  • Variable-Speed Technology: Units with a variable-speed compressor and air handler can make continuous, tiny adjustments, providing more consistent temperatures and superior humidity control.
  • Remote Access: Control your AC through your phone or tablet. Perfect for busy lifestyles or frequent travelers.
  • Voice Control Integration: Works with smart home devices. You can adjust the temperature or airflow with a voice command.
  • Advanced Air Filtration: Built-in filters help reduce allergens and indoor air pollution. These are especially helpful for people with allergies or respiratory issues.
  • Humidity Sensors: Monitors indoor moisture levels. Some models automatically adjust to keep humidity in a healthy range.

Safeguard Your Investment With Expert Installation

Even the best air conditioning systems will underperform if they aren’t installed properly. Choosing a licensed technician helps protect your system from poor airflow, refrigerant issues, or uneven temperature control. Proper installation also impacts how long your compressor and air handler last.

Every system has different setup requirements. Some need custom ductwork adjustments, while others need special electrical connections. Letting a trained installer handle the job gives your system the strongest start possible. You’ll notice better cooling and fewer maintenance calls down the road.

Maintenance Considerations for Your New System

Routine maintenance plays a big role in how your AC performs. Systems that get seasonal service run more smoothly and tend to have longer lifespans. During a typical visit, your technician will inspect the refrigerant level, clean coils, check the compressor, and test airflow.

Dirty filters and clogged coils can increase consumption and force your system to run harder. That puts wear on parts and creates inconsistent cooling. Keeping up with service also reduces air pollution inside your home and helps your system respond better to extreme weather.

Upgrade Your AC? Call Wendler Heating & Air

Upgrading your air conditioner is a big decision, but it doesn’t have to feel complicated. Our team at Wendler Heating & Cooling works with customers every day to find the best air conditioning systems for their homes, their needs, and their budgets. No matter if you’re looking for a ductless mini-split, a new central air unit, or a heat pump that helps with heating and cooling, we’re ready to help.

We’ll walk you through HVAC brands, talk about the impact of square footage, and break down what matters for airflow, consumption, and comfort. Let us help you stay cool, save on electricity, and get the performance you expect from your investment. 

Contact us today, and let’s get started.

I have been using Carl Wendler Heating and Cooling to service my heating and air conditioning for several years now. They are wonderful. They are prompt, professional, reasonably priced, and do a great job. I highly recommend them.
Tracy K.
Carl Wendler’s service is professional, friendly, thorough, and efficient. I trust their suggestions for repair and needs. I rely on their choices of products. I have used Carl Wendler’s service since 1986.
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