How to Choose the Right Size and Type of Air Conditioning System for Your Home or Business
Finding the right air conditioning system for your home or business isn’t just about comfort—it’s about efficiency, cost savings, and long-term reliability. With rising energy bills and the risk of uneven cooling, choosing a system
that fits your exact needs is more important than ever. At Lakebrink Heating & Air Conditioning, we help homeowners and small business owners across Union, MO and surrounding Franklin County communities select, install, and
maintain the perfect AC system for their space.
Why Choosing the Right AC System Matters
An undersized AC will constantly struggle, driving up your bills and wearing out early. An oversized system cycles on and off too often, wasting energy and causing humidity issues. Both scenarios lead to inconsistent comfort and
unnecessary expense—especially during Missouri’s hot, humid summers.
The High Cost of a Poorly Sized System
HVAC accounts for nearly 50% of energy consumption during peak seasons. Improper sizing can increase that use by up to 30%, adding hundreds to your annual utility costs. Add in repair frequency and early replacements, and the impact
grows quickly.
Common Mistakes When Choosing an AC System
- Buying based on square footage alone, without accounting for insulation, layout, or windows
- Ignoring humidity control or air distribution needs
- Overlooking installation quality as a key performance factor
Lakebrink HVAC helps you avoid these pitfalls with expert load calculations and personalized consultations.
Trusted HVAC Support Across Franklin County
With over 60 years of experience in Union, Missouri and towns like Washington, St. Clair, Gerald, Pacific, and Sullivan, Lakebrink Heating & Air Conditioning provides tailored solutions backed by in-house duct fabrication and
Daikin-certified technicians. We ensure every AC system we install performs reliably and efficiently from day one.
Key Factors in Choosing the Right Air Conditioning System
1. Understanding Cooling Load Requirements
Lakebrink technicians perform Manual J load calculations to determine the exact cooling capacity your space requires. This ensures you don’t over- or under-size the system.
2. Evaluating System Types
- Central AC: Ideal for homes with existing ductwork; provides whole-home comfort.
- Ductless Mini-Splits: Great for room additions or homes without ducts; offers zoned cooling.
- VRV/VRF Systems: Advanced, multi-zone solutions for commercial or complex layouts.
- Heat Pumps: Efficient heating and cooling in one system—great for Missouri’s variable climate.
3. Accounting for Budget and Rebates
Lakebrink helps you weigh upfront costs against long-term savings. We also manage rebates from Ameren Missouri, Laclede Gas, and Daikin’s FIT program to reduce installation costs.
Flexible financing options are available to fit nearly any budget.
4. Prioritizing Professional Installation
A properly sized AC can still underperform if installed incorrectly. Lakebrink’s team fabricates custom ductwork, calibrates refrigerant levels, and ensures every installation is compliant with Missouri code and local inspection
requirements.
5. Planning for Long-Term Efficiency
Regular maintenance ensures your system runs at peak performance. Our seasonal maintenance plans include coil
cleaning, refrigerant checks, thermostat calibration, and more—helping you avoid costly emergency repairs.
Smart Thermostats: Your Efficiency Upgrade
Adding a smart thermostat can reduce AC runtime by up to 30%. These devices let you schedule temperatures, monitor energy use, and control your system remotely—especially effective when paired with Lakebrink’s high-efficiency Daikin
units.
Step-by-Step: How Lakebrink Helps You Find the Right AC
- Schedule a Manual J Load Calculation: We assess insulation, layout, and window exposure to size your system accurately.
- Compare AC System Options: We explain the pros and cons of central, ductless, VRV, and heat pump systems.
- Get a Detailed Quote: Transparent pricing includes installation, potential rebates, and any ductwork improvements needed.
- Plan Installation & Permits: We coordinate scheduling and handle all compliance requirements locally.
- Enroll in Ongoing Maintenance: Protect your investment with scheduled tune-ups and priority repair access.
Energy Monitoring and Smart Settings
After installation, we show you how to use smart thermostat data to monitor energy trends and adjust temperature settings to optimize comfort and cost savings.
Verified HVAC Services and Coverage Area
Lakebrink offers:
- AC installation and repair
- High-efficiency Daikin systems
- Ductless and VRV system installations
- Heat pump solutions
- 24/7 emergency service
- Seasonal tune-ups and maintenance plans
We proudly serve Union, Washington, St. Clair, Sullivan, Gerald, Pacific, and surrounding areas of Franklin County, MO.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know what size AC I need?
Only a professional load calculation can answer that accurately. Lakebrink performs Manual J assessments to recommend the ideal capacity.
What’s the difference between central and ductless AC?
Central AC cools your entire home via ducts. Ductless mini-splits are perfect for zoning or spaces without ductwork.
Will a high-SEER system really save money?
Yes—upgrading from a 10 SEER to a 20+ SEER system can reduce cooling costs by 30–50%, especially with local utility rebates.
How often should I service my AC?
At least twice a year—spring and fall—to maintain performance and prevent costly issues.
Are heat pumps good for Missouri homes?
Yes. Modern cold-climate heat pumps are highly efficient in Missouri’s seasonal swings and can supplement or replace traditional systems.
Ready to Choose the Right AC System?
Don’t wait for summer heat to make the wrong system painfully obvious. Contact Lakebrink Heating & Air Conditioning today
to schedule a personalized consultation and load assessment. From advanced cooling technologies to expert installation and maintenance, we’ve got Franklin County covered—one comfort solution at a time.
By Lakebrink Heating & Air Conditioning, Union, MO – Serving Franklin County Since 1960
