Buying a new air conditioner can be a daunting task for the homeowner, but if your A/C is getting on in years, losing efficiency, racking up repair bills, or simply not performing as well as you'd like it to, it can be a major improvement. Follow these tips to make sure that your new A/C will serve you well:
Get your home's cooling load calculated.
Load calculation is important to getting a unit that's sized correctly. Undersized units will struggle to cool your home, while oversized ones will contribute to temperature swings that can make you uncomfortable. And if you've had your load calculated before you still may want to have it calculated again: energy-efficiency upgrades can actually change your home's calculations.
Pay attention to the SEER values.
High SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) ratings mean higher-efficiency appliances. These may cost a bit more up front, but their lower operating costs may save you money in the long term.
Go with the right model for you.
Central air conditioners are the most common cooling options in the United States, and your home may already be built for them. But if you've had trouble with central systems in the past, ask your contractor about other options, such as ductless mini splits which can serve you in both heating and cooling.
Get quotes and testimonials.
Whatever contractor you go with should provide estimates of the new system's costs, and they should provide references upon request. Look for contractors who are trusted and well-regarded. You should also find contractors who are licensed, bonded, and insured, to protect yourself and them.
Get a maintenance agreement.
HVAC systems, new or old, need ongoing maintenance to keep them operating at peak efficiency. Moreover, some new systems will actually go out of warranty if they're not maintained. When you buy a new air conditioner, get an ongoing maintenance agreement to protect your investment.
If you're considering a new air conditioner purchase, contact Hartman Brothers Heating & Air Conditioning for expert advice!
Our goal is to help educate our customers in New Haven, Indiana and surrounding Fort Wayne area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about buying a new air conditioner and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Guide or call us at 260-376-2961.
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