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Questions to Ask Before Purchasing a New AC System
A new AC system is a significant investment that requires careful consideration. It's important to understand that choosing the right system involves more than just comparing equipment prices. There are a handful of questions you should ask about system size, efficiency, installation, cost, and long-term performance to ensure you buy a new AC unit that’s ideal for your home.
In this guide, we’ll highlight the top questions to ask before buying a brand new air conditioner. Read on for the factors you should consider beyond the price tag.
Do I Really Need a New AC System?
You should evaluate whether you actually need a new air conditioner before making the investment. This means considering the system’s age, repair history, efficiency, and overall condition. Is the AC unit over 10-15 years old? If so, it may have lost efficiency, and your home could benefit from a modern system.
You may need to replace your AC if it has frequent breakdowns resulting in costly repairs, or if your energy costs have risen steadily and cooling performance has declined. On the other hand, if your AC is under 10 years old and works efficiently, you can probably wait a few years before replacement becomes necessary.
What Size AC System Does My Home Need?
Proper sizing is critical when purchasing a brand new AC unit. The wrong sized unit can cause major issues and shorten the lifespan of your system.
For example, an oversized system may short cycle and provide inadequate humidity control, making indoor air feel damp or sticky. An undersized AC may run constantly and still struggle to cool your home effectively. Undersized systems drive up energy costs and experience strain that can prematurely wear internal components.
That’s why a professional load calculation is essential. Ask the HVAC contractor whether they will perform a load calculation to ensure you get the right size of AC. They should assess your home’s square footage, ceiling heights, window and door placement, climate, and number of occupants.
What Efficiency Rating Should I Choose?
Air conditioner efficiency is rated by Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER). SEER ratings range from the legal minimum of 13.4 to 14 up to 26 to 30+ for top-efficiency systems. SEER ratings are calculated by dividing the AC’s total cooling output throughout a season by the total amount of electricity it consumes.
SEER2 is an updated rating system introduced by the U.S. Department of Energy. It uses stricter testing standards to provide more accurate reflection of real-world efficiency.
Most homeowners opt for a mid-range efficiency rating of 15 to 16 SEER2. Air conditioners with this rating provide energy savings and long-term efficiency in most climates without an unreasonable price tag.
What Type of AC System Is Best for My Home?
There are several types of AC systems to consider, including central air conditioning, heat pumps, and ductless mini splits.
Central AC is best for larger homes with existing ductwork and provides whole-home cooling from a single thermostat. A heat pump is ideal for mild climates that need moderate cooling during summer and cost-effective winter heating. A heat pump eliminates the need to buy and maintain a separate furnace and AC systems. A ductless mini split AC is a great option for homes without existing ductwork or homeowners looking for targeted zone controls.
Will the New AC System Improve Home Comfort?
A new AC system can help improve airflow, reduce uneven temperature issues, and offer energy savings. If you find that you’re uncomfortable at home even when the AC is running, you may need a brand new air conditioner.
How Long Will Installation Take?
Professional air conditioner installation typically can be completed in a single day. If your home has compatible existing ductwork and working electrical lines, the swap may take as little as four to six hours. If new ductwork is needed, that can extend installation time by two to five days.
Why Should I Have a Professional Do the Installation?
You should always have a professional install your new AC system to reap the benefits below:
- Proper sizing: A professional HVAC technician will assess your home cooling needs to ensure you get the right sized AC installed to promote long-lasting efficiency.
- Energy savings: Professionally installed ACs are correctly calibrated to offer energy efficiency and lower your utility bills.
- Electrical safety: Installing an AC unit requires electrical wiring that should only be performed by a licensed professional.
- Manufacturer warranty requirements: Most manufacturer warranties require documented installation by a professional to validate the parts and labor warranties.
- Permits and code compliance: HVAC professionals handle permitting and ensure code compliance with building codes and passed inspections.
How Long Should the New AC System Last?
A new AC system will generally last between 15 to 20 years with proper maintenance. Routine inspections and seasonal tune-ups are crucial to extending the lifespan of your AC unit.
What’s Involved with the Installation?
At G&G Heating and Air Conditioning, we offer a straightforward AC installation process.
- In-home consultation and sizing: One of our HVAC technicians will visit your home to conduct load calculations for sizing your new AC unit. We’ll also provide guidance on the type of AC you should invest in.
- AC unit selection: Our team helps you evaluate your options and choose the best AC for your needs.
- Professional installation: Our HVAC technicians precisely install your new AC ensuring it is calibrated for maximum efficiency. We will also remove your old unit and properly dispose of it.
- Final testing and walkthrough: We’ll conduct final tests to make sure the AC functions correctly and walk you through the controls.
Contact G&G Heating Today
If you’re in Olympia, WA or a surrounding area, G&G Heating and Air Conditioning can help you invest in a new AC system that serves your household. We offer professional installation and replacement services for homeowners. From system sizing to calibrating your thermostat, we work with you every step of the way.
Call us at (360) 499-6604 for new AC installation and ongoing air conditioning services, such as maintenance and repairs.
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