Is it time to buy a new central air conditioning unit? Maybe your existing unit is not keeping you comfortable. Or it is costing you a lot of money due to repairs or increasing utility bills. Or maybe it is getting old, and you want a new, more efficient model.
Whatever the reason, while price undoubtedly will be a factor, here are some things you should consider when investigating a new air conditioner.
1. Size
The first thing to consider is size. Too small of a unit and it won’t adequately cool your home. And it will run constantly, wasting energy and ultimately wearing out before its time. But you don’t want too big a unit either. It will cycle on and off repeatedly, driving up energy costs before eventually failing.
Size is measured in tons of cooling. One ton of cooling capacity equals 12,000 BTUs (British Thermal Units). Some factors that impact the new air conditioner size needed include:
- Climate
- Orientation to the sun
- Home construction
- Home size
- Amount and type of Insulation
- Roof materials
- Location and quality of windows
- Number and types of appliances
2. Energy Efficiency
Air conditioning units are much more energy-efficient these days. Energy efficiency is measured by the seasonal energy efficiency ratio, or SEER, The higher the rating, the more efficient the unit.
The U.S. Department of Energy mandates a SEER rating of 14 or higher, and the highest rating is 26. While higher SEER ratings increase upfront cost, the energy savings over time will more than make up for that. So go for the highest SEER rating you can afford. Additionally, some units with high SEER ratings can qualify for tax credits. Check for those.
3. Thermostat
When buying a new AC unit, make sure your existing thermostat will work with it. Whether it does or not, we recommend buying a new Wi-Fi thermostat at the same time. You can preset the thermostat to specific temperatures depending on time of day, day of week, etc. And you can control it remotely through your tablet or mobile phone. More importantly, the thermostat can notify you of a problem with the heating and cooling system.
4. Reputable Brand
If you are considering a specific brand, make sure it is reputable. How long has the manufacturer been in business? Also check with friends and relatives. Also check Google ratings and the Better Business Bureau. Make sure the dealer has a parts warranty of 5 to 10 years.
5. Reputable Dealer
Use the same evaluation criteria to ensure the dealer is reputable. Another source for that is Best Pick Reports. Make sure the dealer also offers a warranty and provides a maintenance plan that offers discounted pricing, expedited service and reminders to get your unit maintained.
6. Pricing, Rebates and Credits
In addition to the price, check for rebates and credits offered by local governments, utility companies and manufacturers.
Contact Ravinia Plumbing for Help with a New Air Conditioner
Ravinia Plumbing’s trained and NATE-certified heating and cooling system technicians can help you with the purchase of a new central air conditioning system. We can help you determine the best unit to meet your needs and then install it. We also offer a maintenance plan that will ensure maintenance is up to date. We are proud providers of Carrier products, and we are an 11-time recipient of the Carrier President’s Award, given to contractors who provide exemplary service.
Our customers have relied on us since 1928 (that’s 97 years!) for quality products, knowledgeable technicians, and superior service, including 24/7/365 emergency service. That is why we’ve made a name for ourselves as the most trusted plumbing, sewer, heating and air conditioning, and electrical company in Chicago’s North Shore and Northwest suburbs. Contact Ravinia Plumbing today to schedule an appointment.
