Does your Home need Two AC Units?

07 Jul Does your Home need Two AC Units?

SERVING AREAS OF BRISTOL, JOHNSON CITY, AND KINGSPORT TN

Does your home need two AC units? This is a common question that our certified HVAC technicians in Kingsport are often asked. If you have a two-story house, two AC units are almost always recommended. Today on the blog, Thompson Electrical shares the benefits of having a double AC unit, and why you might want to consider adding a second system to your home. Plus, learn about another option that may help you achieve a balanced temperature indoors.

Temperature Balance

Having two AC units in a two-story home helps balance the temperature. Usually, the upstairs stays warmer, and the downstairs or basement remains cooler, as hot air rises. This makes maintaining a comfortable temperature throughout your home difficult. With a single unit, you probably deal with the upstairs remaining hotter, while your home’s lower level is comfortable or cooler. This may result in higher energy bills, which takes us to our next important point.

Energy Savings

If you have a single, non-zoned AC unit, the entire home has to be cooled at the same time. Your AC unit has to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. Reducing the amount of square footage that your AC has to cool will help cut costs on your electrical bill. For instance, if you have to turn your thermostat down to keep the upstairs cool while freezing out the downstairs, you’re costing yourself more in energy bills. A two-unit HVAC system could help reduce your energy bills.

Backup

Being without AC during the summer is not fun. Just ask anyone who has ever had their AC unit go out on them in the middle of an East Tennessee summer! Having a second AC unit is great for a backup, in case your other one goes out (which usually happens when you are least prepared). A second unit would keep you cool while you wait to have your other one repaired or a new one installed.

Costs

Installing two AC units may sound expensive. Keep in mind that the AC unit’s size is recommended based on the square footage it is cooling. The unit you have installed to cool your home’s main level may be much smaller than the one for your basement. So, the cost may actually balance out compared to purchasing a larger single unit. You will have to think about your energy savings that two units provide as well.

Zoned System

A two-unit system may not be the best option for you, even if you have a two-story home. Another option is to have a zoned system installed that utilizes one AC unit. The purpose of a zoned system is to control the temperature in different areas of your home. This is done by control dampers installed in your ductwork that allows the unit to force a specific amount of cold air into a designated area of your home. Although the cost of a single-unit zoned system is as much as two AC units, it could help you save on your energy bills and keep you more comfortable.

New AC Installation in Kingsport, Johnson City, and Bristol

If you would like to learn more about better controlling the airflow in your home or want to find out if a two-unit HVAC system is right for you, contact Thompson Electrical Service by calling (423) 343-5726. We provide complete HVAC installation, repair, and maintenance to residential and commercial residents of East Tennessee.