Last month, we discussed determining whether you need a new air conditioning system. This month, we will give you some things to consider when buying a new unit.
Size
The first thing to consider is the size of the unit. Too small a unit will not cool your home properly, and the system will have to work too hard and use too much energy to cool the air. However a unit that is too big for your home will cycle on and off too quickly, wearing out the equipment prematurely, and making the home feel cold and clammy.
A heat load calculation can determine the proper sized unit. Load calculations will factor in the amount of heating and cooling needed based upon your climate, the amount of area you have to heat and cool, and the condition of the part of your home that interfaces with outside air (sometimes referred to as your home’s “envelope”).
Energy Efficiency
Even if your air conditioner is only 10 years old, chances are you can save as much as 20% on your energy costs by replacing it with a newer, more efficient model. You will want a model with a high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating, which is known as a SEER rating. The SEER rating measures the amount of energy needed to provide a specific cooling output. Units with SEER ratings of 14 or higher earn an Energy Star designation, an international standard for energy efficient products. You should strongly consider purchasing units with an Energy Star designation. Even though they may be more expensive, the reduced utility costs will save you money in the long term.
Preventative Maintenance Programs
Make sure that the company you purchase the unit from offers a preventative maintenance program. This guards against expensive repairs, ensures the equipment is operating efficiently, and will prolong the life of the unit. preventative maintenance programs may include discounts on repairs and/or extended warranties. All manufactures require yearly preventative maintenance to keep the equipment warranties in effect. Some
Warranty
Make sure you understand the terms of the warranty, including exactly what is and is not covered, and for how long.
Programmable Thermostat
If you do not have a programmable thermostat, consider purchasing one when you have your new unit installed. You can program the thermostat to make sure your home is coolest when you are home and awake, and then save energy by setting the temperature higher. Many programmable thermostats can be activated and managed remotely via a tablet or mobile phone.
Size
The first thing to consider is the size of the unit. Too small a unit will not cool your home properly, and the system will have to work too hard and use too much energy to cool the air. However a unit that is too big for your home will cycle on and off too quickly, wearing out the equipment prematurely, and making the home feel cold and clammy.
A heat load calculation can determine the proper sized unit. Load calculations will factor in the amount of heating and cooling needed based upon your climate, the amount of area you have to heat and cool, and the condition of the part of your home that interfaces with outside air (sometimes referred to as your home’s “envelope”).
Energy Efficiency
Even if your air conditioner is only 10 years old, chances are you can save as much as 20% on your energy costs by replacing it with a newer, more efficient model. You will want a model with a high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating, which is known as a SEER rating. The SEER rating measures the amount of energy needed to provide a specific cooling output. Units with SEER ratings of 14 or higher earn an Energy Star designation, an international standard for energy efficient products. You should strongly consider purchasing units with an Energy Star designation. Even though they may be more expensive, the reduced utility costs will save you money in the long term.
Preventative Maintenance Programs
Make sure that the company you purchase the unit from offers a preventative maintenance program. This guards against expensive repairs, ensures the equipment is operating efficiently, and will prolong the life of the unit. preventative maintenance programs may include discounts on repairs and/or extended warranties. All manufactures require yearly preventative maintenance to keep the equipment warranties in effect. Some
Warranty
Make sure you understand the terms of the warranty, including exactly what is and is not covered, and for how long.
Programmable Thermostat
If you do not have a programmable thermostat, consider purchasing one when you have your new unit installed. You can program the thermostat to make sure your home is coolest when you are home and awake, and then save energy by setting the temperature higher. Many programmable thermostats can be activated and managed remotely via a tablet or mobile phone.
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