Do you need a new AC? Now that the weather is changing, you decide to change your filter and turn on the air conditioner for a test run. You hear a noise, and the air isn’t getting cold. Now what? You don’t rent any more, so asking the landlord to take care of it isn’t an option. You are the owner, so you must decide what to do next. Pick up the phone and call a reputable HVAC company. You schedule an appointment, the technician shows up and informs you that your air conditioner needs to be replaced. Do you go with his recommendation or should you research your options?
The answer is simple, do what you feel is the best situation for you. If you trust the company you hired to install your original AC unit, then go with the recommendation. If you have the time, research. To make this easier for you, we have taken some of the guessing out of it for you.
Energy Efficient Air Conditioning
First, you must make sure the air conditioning unit you choose has a good energy efficient rating. Since the rating is reflected by the percentage of energy used efficiently, it follows that the higher the rating, the higher the efficiency. You should also know that air conditioners are given a special name for the efficiency rating called SEER. It stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the unit.
You should also be aware that if you need a new AC, then it is most likely you need to install a new furnace. Most systems are designed to work together, and the efficiency ratings are often based on the whole HVAC unit. Check with the manufacturer of the air conditioner you choose to see if it is more reliable and efficient when replaced as one whole unit.
Now let’s get to the choices. There are some brands that are better known than others. This could be a result of good brand advertising, thereby creating brand recognition, familiarity from hearing your friends talk, or from top performers both on long lasting and energy efficient ratings.
AC brands to choose from
You have probably heard of many brands like RUUD, Carrier, Lennox, Trane, and Rheem. RUUD produces high efficient air conditioners that are durable and reasonably priced. Carrier, Lennox, and Trane are middle of the road brands and more basic. Rheem owns and manufacturers RUUD.
Besides, the energy efficiency rating, make sure to look into the warranty offered with each product. Most importantly, hire a good, reputable company that offers good customer service and has experience installing the brand you have decided on. You don’t want to spend a lot of money only to find out it was installed incorrectly and have to fight with the company to fix it. Don’t forget that the best value doesn’t always mean the cheapest.
The installation and maintenance of your air conditioning unit are equally as important as the brand you choose. If you have used a HVAC company that has always been honest, offered good customer service and prompt service, then give them a call for your air conditioner installation. They should be able to advise you about the right brand for your house and inform you about its energy efficiency. In addition, if cost is a concern, they should be able to talk to you about financing. A new energy efficient air conditioner installation also qualifies for Ygrene financing.
Lastly, once you have invested the time and money for a new air conditioner unit, don’t forget a few things. Keep the area around it clean and free of debris. Make regular service checks a priority. Always change your filters regularly.
