Aircon Installation: Considerations for Retrofitting and Upgrading Existing Systems

27th November 2023

Many homes and businesses are thinking about updating or retrofitting their current air conditioning systems as energy efficiency becomes a key priority and technology improves. The energy efficiency, the comfort, and the operating costs of an air conditioning system can all benefit from a retrofit or upgrade.

A successful installation relies on a number of aspects that must be taken into account before beginning such a job. A professional like https://www.socool.sg/mitshubishi-aircon/ take all these factors in consideration. In this article, we will discuss some of the factors to think about while upgrading an older air conditioning system.

1.   Estimating the Load:

Find out how much cooling the room needs by performing a load calculation. Considerations such as room size, insulation, window area, and heat-producing appliances go into this estimate. A load calculation performed by a licensed HVAC specialist like https://www.socool.sg/ will reveal the unit’s optimal capacity for the upgrade or retrofit. When a system is oversized or undersized, it loses efficiency, causes discomfort, and uses more energy than necessary.

2.   Check the Current System:

It is important to evaluate the current air conditioning setup completely before making any choices. Think about how old the system is, how much it can do, how well it’s running, and what kind of shape it’s in.

Retrofitting could be preferable than upgrading if the system is still reasonably new and in good working order. However, it may be more economical to replace the system with a newer, more energy-efficient model if it is old, outdated, or requires regular maintenance.

3.   Efficiency in Energy:

Retrofitting or upgrading an air conditioning system should prioritize increasing the system’s efficiency. Try to find models that not only meet but also surpass the energy performance criteria set by the industry.

Utility costs can be lowered and environmental damage kept to a minimum with the help of energy-efficient appliances and fixtures. Find HVAC units with high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) ratings and think about energy-saving options like variable speed motors and programmable thermostats.

4.   Analysing the Ductwork:

Before installing a new air conditioner or making any changes to an existing one, the ducting should be carefully examined. Inadequately sealed or insulated ducts can have a devastating effect on the system’s effectiveness. Think about insulating and sealing the ducts to reduce disturbances and increase efficiency. It is possible that the ductwork will need to be upgraded or replaced to meet the needs of the new system.

5.   Zoning and Controls:

Zone the space and use smart remote controls to maximize convenience and efficiency. The ability to independently set temperatures in various rooms or zones makes for more precise cooling and less wasted energy. Programmable thermostats and other forms of smart home integration offer improved comfort and energy savings.

6.   Upkeep and Repair:

A well-maintained air conditioner will last longer and perform better in the long run. Think about who will be responsible for providing service and repairs once the retrofit or upgrade has been completed.

Find HVAC professionals who you can trust to do routine maintenance and emergency repairs quickly. Preventing malfunctions, optimizing energy efficiency, and extending the life of a system are all benefits of routine maintenance.

7.   Expert Installation:

Hire experienced air conditioner installation Victoria technicians to complete the modification. An improperly installed system might be inefficient, have performance problems, and even be dangerous. Find HVAC specialists who are authorized to work in your state and have a history of successful retrofits and upgrades.

8.   Environmental Impact:

Consider the environmental impact of your decisions while doing AC system upgrades or retrofits. Try to find cooling systems that have a less carbon footprint and use environmentally friendly refrigerants. Saving money and lowering greenhouse gas emissions are just two of the many benefits of installing energy-efficient devices.

9.   Permits and Codes:

Research the local codes and permits needed to make any alterations to an existing air conditioning system. There may be local regulations that must be followed when installing HVAC systems in commercial buildings. Avoid legal trouble by making sure your planned upgrades follow all applicable codes and are permitted in advance.

10.               Future Expansion and Flexibility:

Think about how your cooling demands might evolve or grow in the future. Consider the system’s flexibility if you plan on expanding the number of cooled rooms or square footage.

Make sure the equipment and design you pick can be easily adjusted to meet any changes you may make down the road. If you consult with an HVAC expert, you can anticipate your needs and save money on potential renovations or retrofits.