As record heat waves sweep the country, more Americans are paying attention to the HVAC systems in their homes or are perhaps looking to remedy the lack of an HVAC system in the home. As a result, more people are choosing to upgrade or install newer systems to increase effectiveness and efficiency. If you're one of these folks, here are four factors that you'll need to consider as you make your choice.
Cost
The most obvious factor, of course, is the cost of the system. Affordability will be the most important factor that homeowners consider as they look at the many options available from different manufacturers. As costs rise, the budget gets tighter, and that might tempt a homeowner to choose the lowest-priced unit. However, choosing the lowest price upfront may result in additional costs down the road when it comes to maintenance. Quality should always be an important factor. On average, prices for air conditioning units range between $2500 and $7000. A unit made by a reliable manufacturer at a price point somewhere in the middle range or just above the lowest is often the best option for the average home.
Size
An important factor in the efficiency of the air conditioner is the size. Choosing an air conditioning unit that's touted as ultra-efficient is useless if you choose a unit that is too small or too big for your living space, forcing your unit to work too hard or expend more energy than needed. That's why it's important to consult with an expert in air conditioning installation to figure out the perfect size for your specific space.
Efficiency
Once you've determined the right size, then it's time to consider efficiency. Even if your existing air conditioner is only a decade or so old, a new model is going to be vastly more efficient than the old one because of the constant advances in AC technology. The U.S. Department of Energy has determined that new models are 20% to 40% more efficient than models that are just 10 years older.
Installation
Last but certainly not least is the installation. It's very important to choose experienced air conditioning installers that are licensed, bonded, and insured. Educate yourself on the requirements for becoming an HVAC specialist, especially the specific requirements for your state, so you can make the most informed choice possible. Read reviews and speak to the company beforehand so you can get a feel for how they operate.
If you're ready for an air conditioning installation, contact an HVAC professional in your area.
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