Air Conditioning System Buying Tips!
Summer Heat is quickly taking over the Country and many of you will find that your Air Conditioning System needs to be replaced. It is a stressful time for sure and likely to be a decision that affects you directly, much longer than you think! A Central Air Conditioning System will generally last 13-20 years with proper maintenance, so you need to think over your options before you pull the trigger and have a new unit installed!
Tips for Buying a New Air Conditioning System
Never Settle on Just One Estimate!
If you decide to buy a new Air Conditioning System from the first person who presents you a quote, you may never know all your options! It is recommended by Consumer Reports, that you obtain at least 3 estimates for your project!
Try Not to Wait Until Its Broken!
Urgency is a very key leverage aspect to an HVAC Contractor! By waiting until your Air Conditioning System breaks down, you are at a huge disadvantage, since you are desperate to get your home cool again. If you have a contractor servicing your unit regularly, ask the technician how your system is performing and when you might expect to need a replacement system. If your unit is more than 12-15 years old, you should be prepared for a failure at any time, and start getting estimates now. Even though the cost may change if you don't need the unit right away, at least you can be prepared and have time to research your options.
Buy the HIGHEST Efficiency You Can Afford!
Air Conditioning is the one system in your home that uses the most energy! More than any other appliance or electric item, you should focus on getting the highest efficiency unit (Highest SEER) you can reasonably afford! In addition to the long term savings and return, you may qualify for Home Energy Tax Credits from the Gov't, that will actually make buying a high efficiency air conditioner a bargain!
Choose a Reputable HVAC Contractor
Your home air conditioning system is going to be around for at least 15 years! You should make sure the HVAC Contractor you choose to install it is going to be there also! In the down economy, new companies are springing up left and right, commonly referred to "Two guys and a Van". While you may save a few hundred dollars today, you will lose those savings very quickly when they are no longer in business and able to help you with issues that arise from a poor installation! Check with your neighbors and friends, or use Angie's List. or Service Magic to locate reputable contractors in your area.
Do you have a few tips you would like to add to this list? If so, please use the comment form below and join into the discussion!
