Baton Rouge Air Conditioner Installation and Replacement
If you’re a native, you know what the summer has in store for you in Louisiana. Before too long, you’ll be staring down the barrel of 100-degree highs and soaring humidity levels. Could you survive without a freshly installed AC unit? Maybe. Do we recommend it? Definitely not.
The team at Shield Mechanical has everything you need for professional AC installation and replacement in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Get in touch, and we’ll have you kicking back in the cool while the outside boils.
If you’re concerned about cost, we offer free estimates on installations!
How to Choose a New Air Conditioner for Your Home
If you’re starting fresh, there are a few angles to consider before investing in a new AC unit.
- The size of the unit. Ensure the air conditioner is appropriately sized for your space. A unit that’s too small won’t cool effectively, while one that’s too large will cycle on and off too frequently, wasting energy and wearing out faster.
- Your energy efficiency goals. Look for models with high SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy-efficient the system is, saving you money over time.
- The type of system you’re looking for. Decide whether you need a central air system, a ductless mini-split system, or a portable AC unit. This choice will likely depend on your home’s setup and cooling needs.
- Any programmable features you want. Many modern air conditioners come with smart features like timers, smartphone connectivity, and energy-saving modes. Convenience is king, so be sure your unit of choice comes with all the bells and whistles you require.
- Installation and maintenance requirements. Consider the unit’s installation complexity and long-term maintenance requirements. Working with a professional installer is the best way to make sure that your system is properly set up and operates efficiently.
Sounds simple so far, right? Don’t move too quickly; installing or replacing an air conditioner in Baton Rouge comes with special considerations.
Baton Rouge Specific Air Conditioning Issues
In a city with so much fierce weather (and temperatures often breaking 95 degrees in the summer), you’ll want to keep the following in mind:
- Aging homes and ducts. There are some truly old homes in the parishes, with over 20,000 residences built before the 1970s. Before you sign off on a new unit, you’ll want a professional to check out your insulation and ductwork. Resealing or resizing ducts can head off inefficient cooling and reduce costs.
- Consistent use. Your unit needs to be built for near constant use. Air conditioners in Baton Rouge often see use for 8-10 months out of the year, and you don’t want a breakdown during the hottest times. Air conditioner maintenance is key, and we’re here to keep you up and running.
- Storms and power outages. The weather can get wild in Louisiana, and your unit needs to be ready to combat power surges, heavy winds, and rain. Without proper mounting and surge protection, your air conditioner can suffer.
AC Replacement Vs. Repair
Just like a car, once too many issues arise with your air conditioning system, a fresh start can be necessary. How do you know when to repair or go for something new?
Unit Age or Frequent Breakdowns
Once an AC unit hits the 10-year mark, considering a full replacement becomes more commonplace. Fixing older units can often come with costs for outdated parts. Also, if you’re making calls multiple times a year to keep your unit running, it’s probably time to consider swapping it out for a newer model.
Failure of Expensive Parts
Not every breakdown is a big deal, but some parts going on the fritz can put you out thousands of dollars instead of a few hundred. For example, if your unit’s compressor no longer functions, you’ll be footing a major bill compared to a sensor or control board issue.
Inefficient Cooling
Technology improves over time, and newer units often do a better job of efficient cooling than older models. If you’re noticing an increase in your energy bill with a unit you’ve had for a while, then there may be a bigger issue at hand to take care of. Use comes with wear and tear, and as time goes on, your unit will inevitably begin to struggle to keep up.
If you’re still wondering about the best course of action, Shield Mechanical can advise you and help you decide on an AC replacement in Baton Rouge.
AC Installation FAQs
What are SEER ratings?
SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings measure how efficient your air conditioner is. A higher number means that your unit is performing better. In more mathematical terms, this is the cooling output of the air conditioner divided by its energy usage in watts per hour. SEER2 ratings measure a wide range of factors affecting air conditioners and the average efficiency they exhibit under those conditions. SEER2 ratings are usually about 5% lower than SEER ratings.
What sort of maintenance does my new air conditioner need?
At home, maintenance is pretty simple. Replacing air filters and keeping the area around your unit clean and free of debris can boost its longevity. You’ll also want professionals to give it a regular checkup.
Do AC installations in Baton Rouge need to meet specific standards?
Yes! In January of 2023, Louisiana put new specifications in place to ensure air conditioners keep people safe and cool. A SEER rating of at least 15 is required for any AC installation or replacement in Baton Rouge.