Need A New Air Conditioner? Everything You Should Know First

It’s summer…..when we come in to seek refuge from those hot and steamy days, most of us find shelter in cool temperatures, thanks to our air conditioner. How is your air conditioner functioning these days? Are you cool as a cucumber, or are you sweating and steaming over an AC unit that doesn’t seem to be running as efficiently as it should be? A properly functioning AC unit is essential in the Phoenix area for much of the year. If you are considering making the investment in a new air conditioner, read on to see what you should know to make the best purchase possible:

When should I replace my old AC?

If your air conditioner is no longer cutting it, it won’t be long before you detect an issue with your cooling system. You should consider the replacement of your unit if:

• • It is more than ten years old
  • If it is not efficiently cooling your home
  • If you are facing expensive repairs that rival the cost of a new unit
  • If your energy bill has dramatically risen in recent months
  • If you experience frequent breakdowns
  • If your AC uses R22 Freon
  • If the temperature of your home is not comfortable
  • How should I select a new system?

There are some things that you should consider when selecting a new AC system for your home.

You’ll need to consider the SEER, or seasonal energy efficiency ratio, of the unit you plan to buy. In general, the higher the SEER value, the more efficiently it will cool your home. Keep in mind you don’t necessarily need the unit with the highest SEER value to efficiently cool your home. Any reputable HVAC supplier will be able to calculate your required SEER ratio based on the square footage and layout of your home.

You’ll need to choose the unit that is the right size for heating and cooling your home. The term “tonnage” is used to determine cooling efficiency per square foot of your home; pay attention to this term as you seek something that is energy efficient without breaking the bank or obstructing the view out of your windows.

Look for fair prices; determine what you can comfortably pay for when purchasing a new unit, and stay within that budget. Ask about SEER and tonnage capabilities, and see what options exist for the AC unit that is right for you and your family.

Get bids from several different HVAC specialists to find the best price on the most efficient unit. Most dealers are competitively priced and will work with you to find solutions that work for you and your family. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek additional information as you make this important purchase, as the right one will serve you and your family well for years to come.

Does size matter?

Having the right size AC unit for your home is essential for proper cooling and manageable energy costs. If you have an AC that is too big for your home, you can cause short-cycling. This condition occurs when your home is cooled before your unit has had a chance to finish a proper cycle, which is extremely hard on your AC. If a unit is too small, it will have to work harder than it should, resulting in a higher risk for breakdown and rising energy costs. Calculating things like SEER and tonnage will give you an accurate measure of what type of power is needed for your home.

Energy efficiency ratings

An energy efficiency rating provides you with a ratio of useful cooling output to energy cost. To calculate the energy efficiency of a unit, you need only to divide its cooling capacity by its power. In general, the higher the EER score, the more efficiently it will cool your home while keeping energy costs low.

What kind of budget should I plan for?

The average new installation of an AC unit ranges from $3350-$5912. Most homeowners do not have this in extra cash, so many HVAC installers and dealers will have financing options available. If you can cool your home with your current unit, it might be wise to save up a portion of the cost before purchasing your new unit. Planning for this important purchase is investing in your home’s future comfort and energy efficiency, so plan smart!

Why professional installation is essential

A professional HVAC installer will have the tools and knowledge needed to install your new unit correctly. Attempting to do so yourself can result in injury, damage to your home, and improper airflow and circulation throughout your home, resulting in damage to your home and to your unit. Many professional installers also offer maintenance and installation plans that are ongoing and monthly; for a small service fee, you can have your unit regularly cleaned and maintained, keeping it efficiently running for years to come.

Ready for a cool summer? Give us a call!

We know how important it is to keep your home cool and comfortable during the hot summer months; trust us to get your installation and HVAC maintenance done right! Call us today for a quote and valuable information on the type of AC unit that can make your home your summer oasis!