When it comes to air conditioning systems, size matters. Residential air conditioning systems are available in a variety of sizes. The size of an air conditioning system doesn’t refer to its physical size. Rather, size refers to its British Thermal Unit (BTU) rating. Large air conditioning systems have a higher BTU rating than their smaller counterparts.
While oversized air conditioning systems often suffer from short-cycling, undersized air conditions have their own problems. How do you know if your air conditioning system is too small exactly?
#1) Struggles to Cool Your Home
Your air conditioning system may struggle to cool your home if it’s too small. As previously mentioned, small air conditioning systems have a low BTU rating. BTU is a measurement of cooling, as well as heating, power. Undersized air conditioning systems have a low BTU rating, meaning they aren’t as powerful as larger air conditioning systems with a higher BTU rating. Therefore, a small air conditioning system may struggle to cool your home during the summer months.
#2) Constant Running
Since it will struggle to cool your home, an undersized air conditioning system may run constantly. Air conditioning systems are designed to automatically shut off after achieving the temperature set on the thermostat. With an undersized air conditioning system, it may never achieve this temperature. Instead, it will run constantly without shutting off.
#3) Mold and Mildew
You may notice mold and mildew growing inside of your home if your air conditioning system is too small. Air conditioning systems don’t just remove heat from inside your home; they remove moisture as well. Small air conditioning systems, though, may not remove a sufficient amount of moisture. As moisture accumulates inside your home, it can lead to mold and mildew growth.
#4) High Utility Bills During the Summer
A small air conditioning system can cost you money. When summer rolls around, you may discover that your utility bills are particularly high. This is because your air conditioning system will run for a longer length of time – or even indefinitely – if it’s too small for your home.
#5) Frequent Repairs
Finally, small air conditioning systems typically require frequent repairs. As it runs, your air conditioning system’s parts will degrade. The blower may stop working, or the compressor may go out. When failure such as this occurs, you’ll have to get your air conditioning system repaired by a professional heating, ventilation and cooling (HVAC) technician.