Beat the Heat: How to Choose the Perfect AC System for Your Portland Home

Before the summer weather arrives here in Oregon, it makes sense to begin planning early in the springtime when considering replacing or upgrading your home’s cooling system.

With tons of information available on the internet, selecting the right cooling system for your home can be a daunting task. 

Choosing the best cooling system for your Portland home requires careful consideration of home size, load calculation, energy efficiency, special features, and professional guidance. 

To help you make an informed decision, Sun Glow Home Services utilizes our 50+ years of combined experience in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) industry to explore these key factors with homeowners in and around the Pacific Northwest.

Choosing the Best AC System for Your Portland Home

Sun Glow Home Services can help you choose an air conditioning system that fits your home like a glove. Here are a few factors to consider:

Size of Your Home and HVAC Equipment

One of the most critical factors to consider when selecting an air conditioning system is the size of your home. An HVAC load calculation conducted by an experienced professional is essential to accurately determine the appropriate size of the cooling equipment needed for your specific space. 

Factors such as square footage, insulation levels, and building orientation all play a role in determining the cooling capacity required to maintain comfort throughout your home.

In Portland’s diverse neighborhoods, home sizes can vary greatly, from cozy bungalows to spacious family residences. Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure the cooling system you choose is sized correctly to effectively cool your entire home without wasting energy or compromising comfort.

The SEER2 Rating of Your Air Conditioning Unit

Energy efficiency is another crucial consideration when selecting a cooling system. The updated Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio 2 (SEER2) rating is a metric used to measure the efficiency of air conditioners and heat pumps.

A higher SEER2 rating indicates greater energy efficiency, which translates into reduced utility bills over time.

When comparing different cooling systems, look for models with high SEER2 ratings. While these units may come with a higher initial cost, the long-term energy savings they offer can outweigh the upfront investment. 

Additionally, opting for an energy-efficient cooling system could also qualify you for rebates or incentives offered by utility companies or government programs, further offsetting the cost.

Enhanced HVAC Features for Oregon Homeowners

When selecting an AC system, homeowners should also prioritize special features that enhance their specific goals and desires for indoor air quality and comfort. Common sought-after features include:

• High-efficiency filtration systems are sought after for removing airborne particles, allergens, and pollutants, ensuring clean and healthy air circulation.

• Variable-speed technology is a game-changer when it comes to cooling system efficiency and performance. These systems adjust their output based on the cooling demands of your home rather than running at full capacity all the time like traditional single-speed units. Variable-speed technology allows for precise temperature control, quieter operation, and improved humidity management.

• Smart thermostats offer homeowners convenient control over their HVAC systems, allowing them to adjust temperature settings remotely using their smartphones or other devices.
  
  Smart thermostats can optimize energy usage, improve comfort, and potentially lead to significant cost savings on heating and cooling bills.

Consult with Portland’s Top HVAC Professionals

Our experienced technicians at Sun Glow Home Services can conduct a thorough assessment of your Portland, OR, home’s cooling needs, taking into account factors such as climate conditions, insulation levels, and personal preferences. Call 503-610-2502 or request service online for a free quote today!