Proper airflow is necessary in order to achieve the desired change of temperature as the air crosses over the evaporator. Typical causes of low airflow include:

• Incorrectly sized ducts, too small to handle the flow of air.
• Poorly designed duct layout that hampers airflow.
• An air handler that is incompatible with the rest of the equipment.
• Return grilles that are poorly chosen, placed or obstructed.  

Charge

Refrigerant charge that is either too high or too low can significantly impact A/C performance. Systems utilizing a fixed orifice flow control will be more seriously impacted by an incorrect charge than those with a thermal expansion valve. Studies have shown that:

• Approximately seven out of 10 A/Cs are improperly charged.
• Undercharging is more common, but some systems have found to be overcharged by as much as 100 percent.
• Improper measurement of line set length is a common contributor to the inadequate charge of pre-charged systems.

Tight ducts

Leaky ducts are detrimental to A/C performance, and effects may include:

• Leaky supply ducts may cause a direct loss in system capacity.
• Leaky return ducts may allow unconditioned air to enter the living space.

Size

Undersized equipment will not be able to sufficiently cool the home, while oversized equipment can present much larger challenges as the system runs for only short periods of time, failing to reach the state where it operates most efficiently.

• Short run times may cause hot spots throughout the home, and fail to keep humidity levels in check.
• Increased energy usage may occur as homeowners lower the thermostat in an effort to regain comfort.

For quality air conditioner installation, call the experts at Overland Park Heating & Cooling. Since 1983, we’ve been providing residents of Kansas City and the surrounding area with reliable, professional HVC services.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Overland Park, Kansas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). 

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