FAQ Category: Cooling

• SEER is based on lab testing under ideal conditions
• SEER2 includes more realistic factors like static pressure from ducts, so it gives a clearer picture of real-life performance. 

Is It Worth Upgrading to a Higher SEER2 Unit?

Yes—especially if you want to reduce your energy bills, lower your carbon footprint, and get the most comfort from your system. Higher-efficiency ACs can also help increase the value of your home and extend the life of your system with fewer breakdowns.

Pro Tip: SEER2 is now becoming the new standard across Canada. Many newer AC models are already listed using only SEER2 rating—so if you’re comparing older and newer systems, make sure you’re looking at the same standard!

There are several possible reasons. The usual ones relate to a frozen evaporator coil, dirty filter, dirty condenser coils, a leak somewhere in the refrigeration system or possibly in the ductwork system. It could also be that your unit is older and simply not able to keep up with the extra heavy cooling demands with our weather changes these days. ProSolutions Inc. can check this for you, identify the issue, and advise you on the best actions to take.

The AC unit suction line needs protection from outside air otherwise condensation will occur with water dripping on the floor or ground. It also means that refrigerant gas can warm up before it reaches the compressor. Make sure the line is covered with insulation to protect it and maximize the efficiency of your AC unit.

Typically, a mini split AC does not use a lot of electricity. Ductless air conditioners can use anywhere from 0.30 to 4+ kWh (kiloWatt-hours) of power per hour. That said, the amount of electricity your ductless mini split air conditioner will use depends on several factors, including:

• Outdoor temperature vs. desired indoor temperature – the greater the difference between the outdoor and desired indoor temperature, the more electricity your mini split AC will use. 
• BTU rating (i.e. the size of the unit) – generally, the higher the BTU, the more energy the unit will consume. 
• Unit efficiency – the higher the efficiency rating, the less electricity the ductless mini split air conditioner will use. 
• Zone size – the larger the area, the more electricity your system will need to cool it. 
• Insulation in your home – if your home has good insulation, your mini split AC will require less energy to reach and maintain your desired indoor temperature. 
• Usage – the more you use the system, the more energy it will consume.

Experts like ProSolutions will tell you that it’s best to have at least two-thirds of your vents left open for best operation of your AC system. It is far harder to cool down a house versus keeping it at a constant temperature.