Let’s face it, trying to figure out the ins and outs of your home’s air conditioner can be a little difficult. All those moving parts and numbers printed on so many different labels. It’s hard to know where to begin, but we’re here to help! We’ve defined some of the most common A/C label items you’ll find on your unit to help you start understanding it better today.
Serial Number: This number is unique to your unit, in that there are no two units made with the same exact serial number. Think of your air conditioner’s serial number like the VIN number on a car. Each is different and each tells something specific about the unit they represent. One of the most important things your technician can learn from your unit’s serial number is its age.
Model Number: This tells your HVAC technician the cooling capacity that your unit can withstand. It indicates the tonnage of your system, with “one ton” measuring equivalent to the amount of heat it takes to melt one ton of ice within a 24 hour span. You may be more familiar with cooling capacity measured in BTUs. In that case, know that one ton of cooling equals 12,00 BTUs/hour.
Cooling Capacity: Newer models call out the unit’s specific tonnage in addition to providing the above mentioned model number. If your system was installed more recently, you may not have to decode the cooling capacity as you would from an older unit’s model number.
Voltage: Wondering how much it’s really costing you in energy to run your beloved air conditioner? The voltage number can tell you just that, sort of. The voltage remains consistent and measures the amount of electricity your system uses. However, as stresses are added to the system, the wattage is what rises, and in turn so will your energy bills.
RLA & FLA: The rated load amperage and full load amperage measure the recommended and absolute maximum electric current suggested for your unit. In short, these measurements are used by technicians to determine which size wires and fuses to use when installing or repairing your unit.
Looking for some assistance decoding your air conditioner’s various labels and parts? Allow the Tyler Heating & Coolingteam to assist. Our technicians are knowledgeable, friendly, and happy to help you understand you cooling system to the best of your ability!
To learn more about the HVAC services we provide to Fairfield County and the surrounding areas, call 203-378-4700 today.
