AC FAQs in Honolulu, HI, at American Air Conditioning

Air conditioners come in various sizes, cooling capacities and prices. One type that we see all the time is the window air conditioner. Window air conditioners are an easy and How Air Conditioning System Works economical way to cool a small area.

Most businesses and office buildings have condensing units on their roofs, and as you fly into any airport you notice that warehouses and malls may have 10 or 20 condensing units hidden on their roofs. And then if you go around back at many hospitals, universities and office complexes, you find large cooling towers that are connected to the air conditioning system.

Even though each of these machines has a pretty distinct look, they all work on the same principles.

How Air Conditioning Works:

Air conditioners use chemicals that easily convert from a gas to a liquid and back again. This chemical is used to transfer heat from the air inside of a home to the outside air. It uses the evaporation of a refrigerant, like Freon, to provide cooling. The mechanics of the Freon evaporation cycle are the same in a refrigerator as in an air conditioner. This is how the evaporation cycle in an air conditioner works:

• The compressor compresses cool Freon gas, causing it to become hot, high-pressure Freon gas.
• This hot gas runs through a set of coils so it can dissipate its heat, and it condenses into a liquid.
• The Freon liquid runs through an expansion valve, and in the process it evaporates to become cold, low-pressure Freon gas.
• This cold gas runs through a set of coils that allow the gas to absorb heat and cool down the air inside the building.
• It then returns to the compressor to begin its trip all over again.

This continues over and over and over until the room reaches the temperature you want the room cooled to. The thermostat senses that the temperature has reached the right setting and turns off the air conditioner. As the room warms up, the thermostat turns the air conditioner back on until the room reaches the temperature.

BTU and EER

Most air conditioners have their capacity rated in British thermal units (BTU). Generally speaking, a BTU is the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound (0.45 kg) of water 1 degree Fahrenheit (0.56 degrees Celsius). Specifically, 1 BTU equals 1,055 joules. In heating and cooling terms, 1 "ton" equals 12,000 BTU.

A typical window air conditioner might be rated at 10,000 BTU. For comparison, a typical 2,000-square-foot (185.8 m2) house might have a 5-ton (60,000-BTU) air conditioning system, implying that you might need perhaps 30 BTU per square foot. (Keep in mind that these are rough estimates.) To size an air conditioner for your specific needs, contact us at (808)847-0851 or email.

The energy efficiency rating (EER) of an air conditioner is its BTU rating over its wattage. For example, if a 10,000-BTU air conditioner consumes 1,200 watts, its EER is 8.3 (10,000 BTU/1,200 watts). Obviously, you would like the EER to be as high as possible, but normally a higher EER is accompanied by a higher price.

An air conditioning unit with Inverter technology gradually increases its capacity and output based on what is required to cool a room. If example, an 18,000/btu unit will operate more efficiently at 15,500 if that is all that’s required. The technology helps to reach the desired temperature faster and allows smoother adjustments to maintain a more even temperature at all times. This technology ensures quieter operation, a more consistent air temperature, reduces power consumption by 30% saving energy, provides a longer life for electrical parts and a significant savings on electricity costs.

Like a car’s cruise control, the system varies the compressor speed, which reduces power consumption for extra energy savings. The system adjusts itself precisely to the level needed to maintain a consistently comfortable indoor environment. Precise rotation speed control allows the system to maintain a comfortable, consistent room temperature.

What are EER and SEER Ratings?

The Energy Efficiently Rating (EER) is determined by The Air Conditioning and Refrigeration that equals the ration of cooling capacity in BTUs to the power input in watts. This rating determines the state of the air conditioner when it is up and running.

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating (SEER) is commonly used to measure central and ductless air conditioning. The SEER is defined as the total cooling output (in British thermal units or Btu) provided by the unit during its normal annual usage period divided by its total energy input (in watt-hours) during the same period.

Why is air conditioner efficiency currently an issue?  

The Clinton Administration improved the air conditioner efficiency standard from SEER 10, which was established by Congress in 1987, to SEER 13. The change from SEER 10 to SEER 13 represented a 30 percent improvement in energy efficiency. The Clinton Administration decision required all new air conditioning equipment sold in the United States to comply with the SEER 13 standard by January 2006. In April 2001, however, the Bush Administration addressed the possibility of weakening the standard to SEER 12, and in July, DOE formally proposed to roll back the standard.

Compares the energy and economics of high efficiency and standard efficiency air conditioners.

These cost estimators are screening tools that estimates a product''s lifetime energy cost savings at various efficiency levels. The tools provide energy and cost estimates, suitable for comparison purposes only. They are not designed to replace building load simulating software for cooling systems design. Actual performance and costs will vary depending on specific operating conditions. American Air Conditioning LLC Hawaii is not responsible for any adverse outcome associated with results generated by the cost estimators.

Let''s say that you have a choice between two 10,000-BTU units. One has an EER of 8.3 and consumes 1,200 watts, and the other has an EER of 10 and consumes 1,000 watts. Let''s also say that the price difference is $100. To understand what the payback period is on the more expensive unit, you need to know:

• Approximately how many hours per year you will be operating the unit
• How much a kilowatt-hour (kWh) costs in your area

Let''s say that you plan to use the air conditioner in the summer (four months a year) and it will be operating about six hours a day. Let''s also imagine that the cost in your area is $0.10/kWh. The difference in energy consumption between the two units is 200 watts, which means that every five hours the less expensive unit will consume 1 additional kWh (and therefore $0.10 more) than the more expensive unit.

Assuming that there are 30 days in a month, you find that during the summer you are operating the air conditioner:  

4 mo. x 30 days/mo. x 6 hr/day = 720 hours  

[(720 hrs x 200 watts) / (1000 watts/kW)] x $0.10/kWh = $14.40

Since the more expensive unit costs $100 more, that means that it will take about seven years for the more expensive unit to break even.  

See this page for a great explanation of seasonal energy efficiency rating (SEER).

We appreciate your interest in energy efficiency. 

We are happy to provide some ideas and general guidance that should help you save energy and money. 

Please note that American Air Conditioning LLC Hawaii does not recommend specific brands. For information about products and equipment installation for your home, please try the following:

• Check in with your local utility.  Many utilities offer rebates for the purchase and installation of high-efficiency equipment. Some utilities can also offer financing, tax credits and planning assistance that can help you during specification and construction. 
• With new construction, make your intentions clear from the very beginning.  Be sure to specify efficiency of the construction and products at the outset, before construction starts. Once construction begins, it can be difficult and often costly to make any changes. 
• Find out if there is an energy-efficiency organization in your area. Some states have designated organizations to administer energy-efficiency programs. Locally in Hawaii, Hawaii Electric Company (HECO) is a participant in the CEE''s High-Efficiency Commercial Air Conditioning and Heat Pump Initiative (HECAC). 

Energy Solutions for Business, a prescriptive commercial air conditioning program, offers rebates for equipment that meets or exceeds CEE''s specifications. Hawaii Electric Company can be very helpful with specifications and/or energy-saving programs.

• Utilize the ENERGY STAR® program.  ENERGY STAR is a consumer-oriented federal program that promotes energy-efficient products. On the ENERGY STAR Web site, there are lists of energy-efficient products and equipment, and information about finding a store or dealer in your area. The ENERGY STAR site also includes information about residential new construction programs and improving home efficiency. 
• For HVAC, refer to the CEE and ENERGY STAR Web sites. CEE has developed procedures and protocols for HVAC systems. The CEE initiative covers specifications for high-efficiency equipment as well as guidelines for quality installation of that equipment. Quality installation means getting maximum efficiency from your HVAC system through proper sizing and installation. 

Information about efficient residential central air conditioning systems can also be found on the ENERGY STAR Web site. For information about heat pumps and furnaces, see the ENERGY STAR products page. 

• Purchase energy-efficient appliances, lighting and equipment. Consult the ENERGY STAR web site and CEE Web site for information about energy-efficient appliances (such as clothes washers, air conditioners, dishwashers, etc.) and lighting. 

Good luck with the new construction, remodeling and/or equipment replacement in your home.

Maintaining Your Air Conditioner

An air conditioner''s filters, coils, and fins require regular maintenance for the unit to function effectively and efficiently throughout its years of service. Neglecting necessary maintenance ensures a steady decline in air conditioning performance while energy use steadily increases.

Air Conditioner Filters

The most important maintenance task that will ensure the efficiency of your air conditioner is to routinely replace or clean its filters. Clogged, dirty filters block normal air flow and reduce a system''s efficiency significantly. With normal air flow obstructed, air that bypasses the filter may carry dirt directly into the evaporator coil and impair the coil''s heat-absorbing capacity. Keeping the filter clean can lower your air conditioner''s energy consumption by 5%–15%.

For central air conditioners, filters are generally located somewhere along the return duct''s length. Common filter locations are in walls, ceilings, furnaces, or in the air conditioner itself. Room air conditioners have a filter mounted in the grill that faces into the room.

Some types of filters are reusable; others must be replaced. They are available in a variety of types and efficiencies. Clean or replace your air conditioning system''s filter or filters every month or two during the cooling season. Filters may need more frequent attention if the air conditioner is in constant use, is subjected to dusty conditions, or you have fur-bearing pets in the house.

Air Conditioner Coils

The air conditioner''s evaporator coil and condenser coil collect dirt over their months and years of service. A clean filter prevents the evaporator coil from soiling quickly. In time, however, the evaporator coil will still collect dirt. This dirt reduces air flow and insulates the coil, reducing its ability to absorb heat. To avoid this problem, check your evaporator coil every year and clean it as necessary.

Outdoor condenser coils can also become very dirty if the outdoor environment is dusty or if there is foliage nearby. You can easily see the condenser coil and notice if dirt is collecting on its fins.

You should minimize dirt and debris near the condenser unit. Your dryer vents, falling leaves, and lawn mower are all potential sources of dirt and debris. Cleaning the area around the coil, removing any debris, and trimming foliage back at least 2 feet (0.6 meters) allow for adequate air flow around the condenser.

Coil Fins

The aluminum fins on evaporator and condenser coils are easily bent and can block air flow through the coil. Air conditioning wholesalers sell a tool called a "fin comb" that will comb these fins back into nearly original condition.

Condensate Drains

Occasionally pass a stiff wire through the unit''s drain channels. Clogged drain channels prevent a unit from reducing humidity, and the resulting excess moisture may discolor walls or carpet.

Window Seals for Room Air Conditioners

At the start of each cooling season, inspect the seal between the air conditioner and the window frame to ensure it makes contact with the unit''s metal case. Moisture can damage this seal, allowing cool air to escape from your house.

If you purchase an energy-efficient product or renewable energy system for your home, you may be eligible for a federal tax credit. 

Please note, not all ENERGY STAR qualified products qualify for a tax credit. ENERGY STAR distinguishes energy efficient products which, although they may cost more to purchase than standard models, will pay you back in lower energy bills within a reasonable amount of time, without a tax credit.

A number of tax credits for residential energy efficiency have been renewed.  These tax credits are available for purchases made in 2016, as well as retroactive to purchases made in 2015.  ENERGY STAR products eligible for tax credits are independently certified to save energy, save money and protect the environment.  Use up to 30% less energy in your home by outfitting it with ENERGY STAR products available across more than 70 categories. *

Tax Credit:  10% of cost up to $500 or a specific amount from $50-$300.

Expires:  December 31, 2016

Details:  Must be an existing home & your principal residence.

New construction and rentals do not apply.

List of Air Conditioners that Qualify for the Tax Credit

• Central Air Conditioning
• Ductless-Split System
• Portable Room Air Conditioners

You need to file the IRS Tax Form 5695 and submit it with your taxes.Manufacturer''s Certification Statement for your records

Yes, you can install the eligible product yourself, you are not required to have a particular contractor do the install.

Many of the energy efficiency tax credits allow the cost of installation/labor to be included in the eligible amount. However, if you install the product on your own, you cannot claim a labor charge for the installation. There is no basis for which to charge the government for your time.

A Manufacturer’s Certification Statement is a signed statement from the manufacturer certifying that the product or component qualifies for the tax credit.

Manufacturers should provide these Certifications on their website. Call the manufacturer, or search their website. EPA does not have copies of the Manufacturer''s Certification Statement.

Taxpayers must keep a copy of the certification statement for their records, but do not have to submit a copy with their tax return.

Yes, sales tax can be included for all covered products and labor (if labor is included).

When the time comes to repair, replace or add an air conditioning and heating system to your home, take extra time and care in choosing a dealer. It could make a big difference in your home’s comfort and in your peace of mind.  You may already have a preference for a certain manufacturer based upon the favorable experience of a friend, neighbor or family member. Here are some tips for choosing the right dealer for your needs.

• Check credentials. Before making your choice, call the Better Business Bureau to make sure the dealer is reputable. Also, find out if the dealer is a member of a local association such as the Air Conditioning Contractors of America. This, in itself, can be an indication of reliability. Plus, ask if the dealer is NATE certified. This will indicate a higher level of technical training.
• Ensure affiliation with a nationally known manufacturer. A manufacturer of any magnitude will offer dealers factory training. As a result, when they make recommendations, you can be more assured they have selected the right system for your home.
• Ask for references. Former customers are an excellent source of information. Call and ask if they were pleased with the work performed.
• Expect an on-site evaluation. A good dealer should take a thorough look at your home, evaluate its overall comfort needs and recommend the correct system to meet those needs. Beware of anyone that simply takes information over the phone and makes a recommendation without ever visiting your home.
• Check all local licenses. Depending on where you live, a dealer may have to comply with certain local or state regulations, so ask to see any applicable state and local licenses, as well as insurance for liability and workmen''s compensation.
• Ask questions. Ask for details about the firm''s experience, and the expertise of its staff. This is particularly important if you’re also adding or changing ductwork – in this case, experience is definitely a factor in getting the job done correctly.
• Inquire about warranties. Limited warranties vary according to manufacturer. Make sure the dealer explains the terms of your limited warranty and that you understand it. Many manufacturers also offer optional extended warranties, which you should inquire about at the time of purchase.
• Get a written estimate. To make a fair comparison, be sure the estimates you are looking at are for the services you''ve requested and are based on the same equipment size and efficiency, and the same quality of installation. Be wary of a contractor who offers unrealistically low prices; it may mean corners are being cut, which can cause future problems.
• Ask about maintenance contracts. Many contractors offer maintenance contracts that call for periodic maintenance of equipment. The fee for such contracts is usually well worth it in terms of obtaining optimum performance from your system. These checks are usually performed before the heating or cooling season begins.
• Insist on a written contract. When you have finalized the details, ask your dealer to put it in writing. This will help you avoid any misunderstanding about

• Complies with state and local codes and regulations and carries the proper business and workers'' compensation insurance
• Is prompt, courteous and provides fast, reliable service while attempting to perform service at your convenience
• Has the skill and knowledge to not only service your equipment, but if necessary, to design and install the right system for you
• Is up to date on the newest developments in equipment, technology and design procedures in order to choose and install a system which will be the most efficient and most reliable system for you

An air conditioning system is designed to suit your needs. Your contractor selects each part of the system individually so that everything works at top efficiency to provide the comfort you need. All the system components are matched-the condensing unit, fans and blowers, air conditioning coil, the duct work-to produce a heating and cooling system that will work best for you.

If you’re shopping for a new air conditioning system, the best way to control your energy costs is to purchase a high efficiency variable speed system. Variable speed means your system varies its speed depending on your home’s cooling requirements. Because of this, variable speed systems are more efficient than single-stage systems. Efficiency ratings also matter. When you match a 14, 16 or 18 SEER air conditioner with a variable speed air handler, you can rest assured that you’ve selected a home comfort system that is one of the quietest and most energy efficient available today.

Find more ways to save energy costs

• Change your HVAC equipment is more than 10 years old or not keeping your house comfortable, think about  replacing it with ENERGY STAR certified equipment, which has higher efficiency ratings than standard models.  Ask your contractor about following ENERGY STAR''s Quality Installation guidelines. 
• Check your air filter every month, especially during heavy use months. If the filter looks dirty, change it. At a minimum, change the filter every 3 months. A dirty filter slows down air flow and makes your system work harder to keep you comfortable.
• Choose an Energy Star certified room air conditioner.  ENERGY STAR certified room air conditioners use about 10 percent less energy than standard models and on average, cost less than $70 per year to run
• Clean the area around the outdoor components of your HVAC system.  Maintain your HVAC equipment to prevent future problems and unwanted costs. Airflow problems can reduce your system''s efficiency by up to 15 percent.

An electronic air cleaner is 40 times more effective than a standard throwaway filter in removing unwanted particles from your home. Particles such as pollen, dust, bacteria, tobacco smoke, cooking smoke, animal hair and dander prevent your indoor air from being as healthy as it could be. An electronic air cleaner with a washable electronic cell is up to 99% effective at removing these airborne particles. An electronic air cleaner also protects the operating efficiency of your heating and air conditioning system and keeps your furniture, drapes, carpet and walls cleaner, as well.

AFU

EAnnual Fuel Utilization Efficiency. A measure of a furnace''s heating efficiency. The higher the AFUE percentage, the more efficient the product. The US government''s established minimum AFUE rating for furnaces is 78%.

Air Handler

Also known as the "indoor unit", the air handler is the evaporator section of your air conditioning system. It circulates and delivers the cooled air. The indoor unit contains the evaporator coil, an indoor fan motor and, sometimes, a heat strip (for supplemental heating).

Automatic Setback Thermostat

An automatic setback thermostat or programmable thermostat allows you to store six or more separate temperature settings for different times of the day. You can set the thermostat with a daily or weekly program. And you can override the settings at any time without affecting the daily or weekly program.

BTU

BTU stands for British Thermal Unit: the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water one degree fahrenheit.

Compressor

The compressor is the "engine" which drives the condensing unit. The condensing unit serves as a pump which compresses the gas in the high pressure (condensing) side of the cooling cycle and causes the refrigerant (Freon) to circulate.

Condensing Unit

Also known as the "outdoor unit", the condensing unit pumps vaporized refrigerant from the air handler (indoor unit), compresses it, liquefies it, and returns it. It contains the compressor coil, an outdoor fan motor, refrigerant control valves, and other necessary controls.

Evaporator Coil

Found inside the air handler (indoor unit), the evaporator is where refrigerant vaporizes and absorbs heat.

Placed in Service

The IRS defines "placed in service" as when the property is ready and available for use. It''s not when you purchase product, but the day installation is complete, and you are able to use your new product.

Principal Residence

The tax credit for energy efficiency is available for improvements made to a home that you own and use as your "principal residence." This is the home where you live most of the time. A temporary absence due to special circumstances, such as illness, education, business, military service, or vacation will not change your principal residence.

The home must be in the United States.  It can include a house, houseboat, mobile home, cooperative a

A ductless split-system air conditioning system allows the air handler (blows air through the coil and routes the air throughout the building using a series of ducts) to be installed in a different location from the condenser.

Advantages:

• reduced inside noise
• low cost
• space savings

In warehouses, businesses, malls, large department stores, etc., the condensing unit normally lives on the roof and can be quite massive. Alternatively, there may be many smaller units on the roof, each attached inside to a small air handler that cools a specific zone in the building.

Ductless air-conditioners are the perfect solution for your home, cottage, restaurant, computer room, retail store and more. These systems allow you to cool without ductwork or windows!

The term ''ductless'' simply means no ductwork involved. It has two basic components:

• Indoor air handling unit
• Slim-line outdoor condenser unit

These units are easily connected by refrigerant lines running through a small 10cm opening in the wall or ceiling. The outdoor unit cycles the refrigerant through the lines to and from the indoor unit, where the air is conditioned and then distributed into the open space.

Depending on the series, indoor units come in a variety of styles and can be installed in compact tight spaces on walls or recessed into or suspended from ceilings. Installation is as simple as mounting the indoor and outdoor units, connecting the refrigerant lines, and making a few electrical connections.

Why not use a window unit?

• Their an invitation for burglars and intruders when your away...or at home.
• Your view of the outdoors and incoming light is blocked. Isn''t this the main reason for the window in the first place?
• Old window units are ugly, sweaty and add no value to your home whatsoever.
• The noise levels of the window unit cycling on and off during the night make sleeping a challenge.

Unlike window units, a ductless-split system adds value to your home, is quiet, very secure, stylish, compact and can be installed almost anywhere.

You don''t just get the most advanced products available–you also get solid warranty coverage to protect your investment.

The terms and coverage details of your warranty are specific to the product Brand and models you own. Typically, most products come with a 1-year parts and labor limited warranty. Depending on your model, certain components within the product may have longer standard warranties.

Additionally, we also offer a variety of extended warranty programs to further protect your investment.

To learn the exact details of your warranty, refer to the product documentation such as a user''s manual that came with your product. If your Brand is listed on our website, the documentation is available for download below.At the time of purchase, you may have also been offered additional warranty coverage.  If you have additional coverage through us, please email or call (808) 847-0851 directly for assistance with the warranty.To view or print, Warranty Statements Download Adobe Reader 

Mitsubishi''s Limited Warranty Statement

Please Register your Mitsubishi Electric product to provide Mitsubishi with installation information that helps protect your warranty.

Carrier Warranty

Please Register your Carrier Air Conditioning product to provide us with installation information that helps protect your warranty.  If you have specific questions that need Carrier''s attention, please call Carrier Customer Relations (available 8-5 pm Eastern Standard Time Monday through Friday) at (800) 227-7437.

Contact Carrier''s Customer Service

(Please enter model and serial number in the subject li

A manufacturer’s limited warranty is the warranty that a product leaves the factory with. Typically, it covers specific parts for a limited period of time. Extended warranties are optional and are generally purchased at the same time as the equipment. Optional extended warranties cover all parts and may even include labor. There are a variety of optional extended warranties to choose from, but all are designed to offer long-term peace of mind.

Find Your Model Number

Knowing the model numbers of your air conditioning system will help you better troubleshoot any problems, and will make it easier for any service technician to provide service.

In addition to being listed in your owner''s manual or other paperwork that came with your air conditioning system, the model number is also posted directly on your unit. Here''s how to find it:

Air Conditioners

You can find the model number listed on a "rating plate" sticker affixed to the unit above the back-seated service valve connections.   And of course, if you are unable to find your model number, you can always call us at (808) 847-0851 for assistance.