Air Conditioner Buying Tips

Most new homes today have air conditioning units. It is more unusual to see homes without central air then to see ones with it nowadays. Air conditioning can be a necessity in warmer climates for the comfort of the family. Most air conditioner units will range from three to six thousand dollars, including installation. This is not a minor investment but one necessary for comfort. If you need a new air conditioner, there are several things to consider prior to purchasing.
Air conditioning units should be installed by a contractor who is experienced with this type of work. Depending on existing ducts and the type of unit purchased, the price may vary greatly. Get several estimates from qualified contractors before deciding on the unit and installer. Ensure the contractor has experience and works well with you. Get references and check them thoroughly.
Air conditioner units use electricity to run. If the unit is used often this can increase energy costs significantly. This is especially true in warmer climates where it is a necessity to cool the home. To help combat these costs, it is advisable to look at the efficiency of the unit. This may mean a larger initial investment, but should save money in the long run.
The efficiency rating is required to be on all air conditioners. Compare units carefully to determine the cost for each type of efficiency. The more efficient a unit is, the more money you will save on energy bills. A more efficient air conditioner will take less energy to run and cool the entire house.
You will need to determine the appropriate size of the unit needed for your house. This is an important step because units that are too small will have to work harder to cool the home. Units that are too large are simply wasteful and unnecessary. A qualified air conditioner contractor will be able to analyze the size of your home and make recommendations on the size needed.
Always get a contract before starting work with any contractor. Make sure all the costs are clearly spelled out. This should include both the cost of the unit and installation. It should also detail payment policies and warranties. Warranties generally cover the compressor and additional parts. Do not choose a unit that has anything less than a five year warranty on the compressor, but a ten year warranty is better. Additional parts may be warranted anywhere from one to five years and are usually separate.