Types Of Attic Air Conditioning

Laird and Son offer two types of attic air conditioning:

* A low velocity air conditioning system utilises a condenser outside and an air handler in the attic. We install conventional metal ductwork and insulate to prevent condensation. We install 4 by 10 inch supply air vents in each room with an 11 by 14 inch return air in the hallway of the top floor. This system is ideal for bungalows without ductwork and also in smaller two story homes. In cooling the upper level the lower level gets cooled by the down flow of cold air. These systems are a good value for those with limited budgets.
* A High Velocity air conditioning system uses high velocity air distributed through small flexible tubes. We install 2 inch round outlets in each room with a return air on the top level. This system also utilises a condenser on the outside and an air handler in the attic. The indoor components are smaller and the entire system is sound attenuated preventing mechanical and air noise. The air enters the living space with enough velocity to aspirate with the room air, eliminating hot and cold spots. We install the Unico system, which also removes 30% more humidity than standard air conditioning systems. This type of installation tends to be for larger homes and for noise sensitive situations.

Installing Air Conditioning

There are several reasons for installing air conditioning in an attic space.Cold air flows downward and hot air rises. Forced air systems with the air handler or furnace in the basement must raise the air to the upper levels, which are the warmest areas of the house. This is very difficult for the system and most upper levels of air-conditioned homes are experiencing unsatisfactory cooling.

Most of the heat generated in your home is coming from the roof and the attic adding heat gain to the upper levels.Most people desire cool homes for sleeping. Bedrooms are often located on the upper levels.
Cooling from the attic benefits you by conditioning the air at the source of greatest heat gain. The system also cools the top levels first relieving any concern for uncomfortable nights. Cold air flows downward with gravity therefore ensuring the lower levels will never be too warm. We install the thermostat on the top level, which prevents overcooling.

Central Air Conditioners

At Laird and Son Heating & Air Conditioning we handle several brands of central air conditioners. These are the style which are added to a tradional Toronto area forced air heating system ducted through the house. About 85% of GTA homes would use this type of system regardless of the fuel their forced air furnace uses. You've seen those familiar square boxes outside many houses, this is most likely the condensing unit of a central air conditoner. It may also be called a split system because there is a second component call the evaporator coil which is installed inside the duct near the furnace. The household air passes through this coil to be cooled and dehumidifed then sent through your duct system using the furnace blower the same as your heated air does. The central air conditoner typically uses your existing thermostat or a modern replacement heat/cool model if appropriate. Our home comfort consultants will be happy to discuss central air condtioning, ductless air conditioning or attic based air conditioning with you.