Top Things to Consider When Buying An Air Conditioning System
When considering the purchase of a new air conditioning system, there are several important factors that you should think about. This ensures that you get the AC unit that’s right for your family’s needs.
Here are the top factors we think you should be considering when buying an air conditioning system:
Size and Capacity
The first thing to consider is what size unit you will need to effectively cool and heat your home. A system that is too small won’t be able to cool effectively and one that’s too large will lead to inefficiencies since it will be turning on and off more frequently. When you schedule a free estimate with our sales team, they will calculate the cooling load based on the size of the home to determine what the right size unit is for you.
SEER Rating (Energy Efficiency)
Another factor to consider when purchasing a new AC unit is what the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) is. This indicates how energy efficient the unit is. Ultimately, what this means is that the higher the number, the lower your energy bill will be over time. When you meet with our sales representative, they can show you the differences between units and what you can expect to save by going with an energy efficient unit.
Type of Air Conditioner
The type of unit you want installed is also something to consider. Depending on what area of your home you are trying to climate control, it may be best to stick with a central air conditioning, or maybe choose a ductless mini-split. Consider which one best suits your space, cooling needs and budget. Of course, you can always rely on us to help you determine the best setup for your space.
Features and Technology
With so much technology available today, it’s important to decide what technology you want included in your AC unit. The newer technology can enhance convenience and energy efficiency with devices such as programmable thermostats, adjustable fan speeds, sleep modes, or even smart technology that gives you access to the unit no matter where you are via your smartphone. This is entirely a personal choice, so take a moment to think about what conveniences are essential to you and your family.
Install and Maintenance Requirements
Another factor to consider is what the installation process will entail, as well as what maintenance needs are required. You will have a window of time where installers are at your home that you need to plan for. Plus, what other things may need to be updated, such as rerunning your drain line that will take time and require you to be present. Talk to your sales specialist about the requirements for install, so you can better prepare yourself.
As for maintenance requirements, we recommend all AC units be maintained twice a year. However, manufacturers may have their own requirements to maintain the unit’s warranty, so be sure to know these requirements and that you’ll be able to meet them so that your warranty isn’t voided.
Warranty and Brand Reputation
Lastly, you will want to research the brand you are having installed to ensure it is a reputable brand. At Air-Ref Co. Inc., we use only the top brands on the market such as Trane, Carrier, Lennox and Mitsubishi to ensure you get a top quality product installed in your home. But, it’s still important to do your own research and decide which brand best meets your needs. Plus, each manufacturer will have different warranties that you’ll want to familiarize yourself with. Of course, our sales specialist will go over this in detail with you as well to ensure you make a hundred-percent informed decision before purchasing your new AC unit.
In the end, before making a purchase, we highly recommend that you consult with an HVAC specialist (like us) to ensure your cooling and heating needs are met to a T. This way you know you get an air conditioning unit that meets your home’s needs and gives you the peace of mind you desire.