Buying a new air conditioning unit can be a stressful experience, especially if your old AC has just stopped working and you need a new one quickly. While the best air conditioning units are expensive, they are also quiet and efficient. You get what you pay for, so don’t skimp when deciding what AC to purchase! How do you choose the right AC unit? What should you look for? Our guide will help you decide what AC unit is right for you, and if you have any questions, the pros at Super Heat & Air are just a phone call away!
Here’s what to keep in mind when buying a new AC unit:
Understand SEER Rating
The efficiency of air conditioners is measured using a rating called the SEER rating, or “seasonal energy efficiency rating.” Federal regulations require that all new AC units have a SEER rating of at least 13. If you want your AC to run quietly and at peak efficiency, look out for a unit with a higher SEER rating. The higher the SEER rating, the lower your energy costs will be. Be aware though, a higher SEER rating means that you will pay a higher up-front price for the unit and installation. If a higher-cost unit is out of the question, choose a unit with a SEER of 14 or 16 which will meet federal requirements, but without the prohibitive up-front cost.
Related Reading: How Long Do AC Units Last?
Know What Tonnage You Need
In terms of AC units, tonnage doesn’t refer to the weight of the unit, but rather the amount of heat that the unit will remove from your home within one hour. For example, A one-ton unit will remove around 12,000 BTUs of heat from your home in one hour.
It is very important to choose the right sized unit for your home because a unit that is too small won’t cool your space efficiently, and one that is too large will cycle on and off too often, which will wear out your unit faster. Also, a unit that is too large for your space won’t efficiently remove humidity from the air in your home either. Undersized and oversized units will both cause your energy costs to be higher.
So what tonnage is best for your home? Well, it depends on your local climate, the size of your home, the orientation of your home to the sun, how many windows your home has, and even the amount of insulation in your attic! To accurately evaluate the tonnage needs of your home, a technician from Super Heat & Air will examine every room in your home including your attic, basement, and crawl spaces.
Have a Budget In Mind
A new air conditioning unit can cost between 3,700-7,000 depending on many factors including the type and size of the unit, your local market, whether you need to replace the furnace at the same time, etc. Having a budget in mind will help you decide what kind of unit will be best for your needs. We recommend doing some research to get an idea of what the cost of a new air conditioner and installation is in your area. If you decide to move forward with a new AC unit, a home warranty can help cover the costs of AC repairs or breakdowns.
Have peace of mind: 3 Questions to Ask Our AC Experts During Your Consultation
New Year New AC
If you are tired of getting your AC repaired or have noticed a steady increase in your utility bills due to an inefficient unit, it’s time to replace your air conditioner! When it’s time to replace your air conditioning unit, make sure you call Super Heat & Air for an installation quote. Our experts will ensure that you have the right-sized unit for your space to provide ongoing comfort for you and your family. Give us a call at [hls_phon_number] or schedule a consultation today!
