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Central Air Conditioning
Central Air Conditioning for Rhode Island Homes
Whole-home cooling through ducts. Here is what matters before you replace an old system or add central air for the first time.
Signs It Is Time
When Cooling Equipment Needs Replacing
ENERGY STAR lists these signs that a system may be due for replacement.
- Your air conditioner or heat pump is more than 10 years old
- It needs frequent repairs and your energy bills are going up
- Some rooms in your home are too hot or too cold
- The system is noisy
Why Installation Matters
Right Size, Right Install
A good system installed badly still performs badly. This is the part worth asking about.
Why Size Matters
ENERGY STAR says proper equipment size is vital for efficiency and comfort, and that the contractor should calculate your home's loads using the ACCA Manual J method or an equivalent.
Ducts Matter
Leaking ductwork can lead to dust, and poor air distribution is another common comfort problem. If you have ducts, ask whether they will be checked for damage and leaks.
Why Installation Matters
ENERGY STAR notes that improper installation can reduce performance by as much as 30%, and can leave a house with poor dehumidification.
Reading the Label
What SEER2 Tells You
SEER2 is the efficiency rating on a central air conditioner. A higher number means the system uses less electricity to cool your home.
A higher rating can cost more up front, so it is worth comparing it with how much you run the system. We can talk that through at the estimate.
No Ducts?
Central Air or Ductless
If your home has good ductwork, central air may be the simpler fit. If it has none, a ductless mini-split cools without it.
See Mini-SplitsCentral Air Questions
Can I Add Central Air to an Older Home?
Sometimes, if there is room for ductwork. If there is not, a ductless mini-split is made for homes without ducts. We look at your layout and tell you plainly which fits.
Why Is One Room Always Hotter?
Airflow, insulation, sun exposure and equipment size can all play a part. We look at the whole picture before recommending a fix.
What Should I Ask Every Contractor?
How will you size the system, will you check my ducts, and will you tell me about local rebates? ENERGY STAR publishes a full bid checklist you can use to compare estimates.
Could a Heat Pump Replace My Central AC?
Yes. A heat pump cools in summer and heats in winter, so it can replace both. See heat pumps.
Are There Rebates for a New System?
Programs, amounts and eligibility change, so we confirm current details before you decide. See rebates.
Is the Estimate Free?
Yes. Estimates are free and come with no obligation.
Sources: ENERGY STAR, When Is It Time to Replace ENERGY STAR, Heating and Air Conditioning Installation Bid Comparison Checklist, U.S. Department of Energy, Central Air Conditioner and Heat Pump Standards and DOE FEMP, Residential Central Air Conditioners.
Get a Free Estimate
Tell us what is going on with your system. We will get back to you with next steps.