Capacity & Efficiency
The two basic characteristics of Air conditioning systems
Residential HVAC system capacity is measured in tonnage, an archaic industry term that refers to the quantity of heat the system can remove in an hour. Typical Residential capacity ranges from 1.5 ton units, which can remove 18,000 BTUs per hour, to 5 ton units, which can remove up to 60,000 BTUs per hour. An Energy Vanguard article digs into the history of “tonnage” as a measurement unit.
Larger capacity is not inherently better. Large units are generally more expensive and, if used in smaller spaces, cool air too quickly to adequately remove humidity, providing less comfort than an appropriately sized unit. Undersized AC systems may never be able to adequately cool a space. Stan’s Heating, Air, Plumbing & Electrical Project Managers are experts at sizing units for a space. Your Stan’s Heating, Air, Plumbing & Electrical Project Manager will make sure to recommend the right size unit(s) for your home.
Efficiency is expressed with Energy Efficiency Ratings and Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratings. EER and SEER are related. EER is a direct measurement of a system’s cooling output compared with its energy input, using specific indoor and outdoor temperatures. The more cooling a unit produces from a single unit of energy, the better the EER. SEER applies this concept to approximate efficiency across a range of conditions, simulating an average year in a specific location. The Department of Energy mandates a minimum SEER in Texas of 14 SEER, as of 2015.
Frequently Asked Questions
The right AC unit depends on your home’s size, your budget, and your specific needs. Consider factors like comfort features, humidity control, sound levels, and energy efficiency. Our team offers in-home consultations to assess your needs and recommend the most suitable unit.
SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) is a measure of an air conditioning unit’s efficiency. Higher SEER ratings indicate more energy-efficient units, similar to how miles per gallon gauge a car’s fuel efficiency. Choosing a unit with a higher SEER rating can lead to lower energy bills and a smaller carbon footprint.
Yes. If you buy your AC unit from us, we’ll handle everything from the installation of your new unit to the disposal of your old one. We also offer maintenance services to ensure your new AC unit operates efficiently and effectively.
Yes. We offer various financing options to meet all our customers’ needs. Contact us to learn more about our options.