When you’re in the market for a new air conditioner, it pays to be a well-informed consumer. You’re well on the road to that goal if you’ve read about the use of Manual J and Manual D in air conditioner installation. There’s one more manual that you should learn about, also from the Air Conditioning Contractors of America. Manual S deals with the actual selection of a specific cooling system for your Wichita-area home.

You’ve read about how Manual J helps your home comfort contractor determine cooling loads. You know that Manual D deals with the duct system. If ducts aren’t big enough to work with the new A/C or don’t supply proper airflow to all your rooms, Manual D to the rescue. Your HVAC technician can adjust or retrofit the ductwork if needed. Now…

The role of Manual S

Basically, Manual S allow your contractor to:

  • Apply cooling load and climate information to both sensible and latent heat. Sensible heat: dry, desert-type heat measured by a thermostat/thermometer. Latent heat: humid heat, the type that makes your skin moist and can encourage mold growth in homes. A humidistat is needed to monitor humidity. These two types of heat explain why the same temperature reading (on a thermometer) may not feel the same in different homes. Hint: the humid one will seem warmer.
  • Interpret manufacturer efficiency and performance data to select the best cooling system for your specific needs.
  • Ensure that your new A/C system offers sufficient airflow and consistent cooling throughout the house.
  • Configure new equipment to achieve efficient and comfortable home cooling, offering options when possible.

Be sure to talk to your contractor prior to signing any agreement. Ask about his methods for air conditioner installation. If he’s going by any rule of thumb, find another contractor. Also, ask for load calculations in writing during the equipment selection process.

For expert assistance in choosing a new cooling system for your home, superior system design and quality installation services, contact Comfort Systems. Visit us online for useful home heating, cooling and energy-efficiency information – or give us a call.

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

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