Has an HVAC technician ever told you your home needs big, powerful AC equipment? You may be surprised to hear that bigger isn’t always better. In fact, an excessively big air conditioner can lead to multiple performance issues.

Continue below to learn more about the common problems of an oversized AC unit. We’ll also share some tips on what you can do about a big AC unit.

Inadequate Humidity Control

While air conditioners are largely for temperature control, quality equipment can also effectively manage humidity. Even mild temperatures feel oppressive when there’s too much moisture in the air. But a big air conditioner doesn’t resolve high humidity as well as a system that’s properly sized.

Your AC doesn’t run all the time; it alternates between cycles long enough to dehumidify your home. Big AC systems in small homes are more likely to experience shorter cooling cycles, which can’t lower the humidity quickly enough.

Humid conditions can lead to additional problems like mold growth, which in turn can trigger allergies or other breathing problems. Even your decor may suffer, as excess moisture peels away paint and damages furniture.

Energy Efficiency

It’s not difficult to understand why big air conditioners use more energy than smaller models. But since oversized equipment goes through excessive cooling cycles, you’re giving up even more money. Installing an oversized AC unit in your home will result in higher monthly bills.

Accelerated Wear and Tear

This rapid cycling doesn’t just affect the performance of the air conditioner as a whole, but also the condition of its key components. Wear and tear is expected over an average life span. Without enough rest between cycles, the added strain may result in frequent breakdowns and even premature failure.

Inconsistent Cooling

Contrary to what some people might think, big air conditioners are less efficient at cooling than a unit appropriately sized for your home. Oversized equipment sends out cool air too fast, reaching the thermostat and tricking it into thinking air has been fully circulated.

You can notice this most easily in different rooms, particularly any at the end of your ductwork. Your air conditioner will likely switch off before these rooms have had a chance to cool down. Before you know it, every room of the house seems to be a different temperature.

Inflated Repair and Maintenance Costs

With all the possible problems above, it’s natural to assume your HVAC costs will be excessive. Over a full life span of an air conditioner, you may have to pay for:

  • Higher initial installation costs
  • Excessive repair and maintenance visits
  • Mold, mildew and water damage
  • Bloated cooling bills

But don’t worry, you’re not stuck with an oversized air conditioner. Depending on the age and general condition of your current system, it might even be time to consider replacing it anyway.

Install a Correctly Sized Air Conditioner

The best way to avoid big AC problems is to avoid installing an oversized unit in the first place. Your local service company should be able to help you determine the equipment size ideal for your home and specific cooling needs. If they insist on going bigger, you may want to look for more trustworthy technicians.

Luckily, Lakeside Heating & Air Conditioning can help. Our process for air conditioning installation in Denver and surrounding areas starts with making sure your new AC fits snugly into your home and existing HVAC system. If you suspect you have an oversized AC unit, give us a call! We’re available at 303-412-8015.