LifeStyle

This Is What You Need to Know Before Buying a New Air Conditioner

New air conditioners should last between 15 to 20 years. That’s why it’s important that you choose one carefully. And what’s even more important that it be installed properly. Here are some important tips that you need to know while buying a new air conditioner.

Hire a professional

Do a little research and hire the best contractor or company to install your AC. Ask for recommendations from friends and family, or look up local home service referral sites along with BBB ratings. Contact two or three contractors and ask for detailed quotes. Ensure that all manufacturer warranty stipulations are met as well.

Buying online

You can ask your contractor to provide the unit and install it. Or you could buy the unit at wholesale and only have the contractor install it. You may save money depending on which brand you buy. Ensure that you hire a licensed contractor to follow local and state codes, obtain required permits, and give you a record of the professional installation. Check with the contractor before you buy anything and listen to their recommendations.

AC size

Choosing the right AC size will determine how comfortable you are and how efficiently it performs. If you buy a unit that’s too small, it won’t cool properly, and if you buy one that’s too large, it will cycle on and off repeatedly, thus wasting energy and inflating your bill. Get your contractor to perform a load calculation.

Load calculation

This will help work out the right unit size for your space. The contractor will match your home’s thermal characteristics, size, climate zone, roof material, directional orientation, number of appliances, and other things with cooling capacity. Do an energy audit along with the load calculation and get a discount.

SEER rating

The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio measures the AC’s efficiency. The minimum SEER required is 13 to 14. Get one that’s at least 14, but try and buy one that’s rated even higher. Look for the Energy Star label too.

Maintenance

Sign for an annual maintenance contract with the contractor as well. You’ll need it to keep your AC running well and to ensure that your warranty remains valid.