Time and again, we have emphasized the importance of thinking before investing. Some household devices or gadgets are cheap, and others are costly. Erring while buying and installing a relatively cheap piece of machinery may not make you regret the decision. But when you make the same mistake while buying something as expensive as the AC or the HVAC, you have to live with your folly for years to come and regret it each day.
Getting a new AC system is never an easy choice to make. It is made even more difficult by the wide variety of options available in the market. Nevertheless, since your comfort at home depends on it to a very large extent, it is a decision you need to make, and that, too, timely. To help you in this regard, we are dedicating this article to 3 important questions that you need to ask yourself before installing a new AC system.
Question 1 – Are You Aware Of The Difference Between An AC And HVAC?
Heating and cooling systems consist of two main components. One is the air conditioner for cooling, and the other is the furnace for heating. Usually, these comprehensive systems that take care of both cooling and heating are referred to as the HVAC systems or the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning systems.
Buying only the AC means that you just need to take care of the home’s cooling. You either don’t need a furnace at all, or the existing one is good for a couple of years more. One needs to be very clear on their exact requirement. You cannot buy an AC and expect it to heat your home as well. For that, you need a furnace as well. So if it’s both heating and cooling that are pressing needs, what you need isn’t an AC, rather the HVAC.
It is better to be specific and clear about what you really need. Many people use the terms AC and HVAC interchangeably. Since both have different capabilities, do not assume anything. Ask pointed questions to ensure that both you and the person you are talking to are on the same page.
Question 2 – What Size And Type Of New Air Conditioner You Need?
Just because your old air conditioner was a window AC of 2.5 tons, it does not mean that your new one, too, should have the same specifications. Maybe your old AC was undersized and unable to cool your entire home to satisfaction. Moreover, if you have made any additions to your home, the space that now needs to be cooled would be bigger. What you would now need is a bigger size AC.
Buying an oversized AC is also not the correct move as it would result in frequent short cycling and increase your utility bills. What one needs to do is get the help of an HVAC contractor who can access the floor area of your home. After sizing your home, he will be able to tell which size of the air conditioner will be most appropriate. With a perfectly sized AC, cooling will be optimum, and the energy bills low.
The other matter is the type of AC. Today, there is no dearth of variety amidst the heating and cooling systems for homes. It is tough to choose between ducted systems, ductless systems, heat pumps, etc. Each system is unique. With the help of an HVAC technician, you need to figure out which type of AC will deliver seamlessly in keeping your home comfortable.
Question 3 – Are You Aware Of The Financing And Warranty Options For Your New AC?
The third most important question pertains to making the right financial decision while installing a new AC system. By now, you are already aware that buying an AC is an investment in itself because of the cost associated with it. An HVAC system is even costlier. Now, a majority of us cannot dig deep in our pockets and make the full payment upfront. Thankfully, there are many financing options available.
Most HVAC contractors will have a couple of financing options for you to choose from. This will help reduce the financial burden on yourself and pace out the payments to a comfortable schedule. A good financing option is one that does not put you under any financial stress. If you can get an extended warranty with it for your new unit, it is even better. Additionally, the care and maintenance of the unit should be a mutual responsibility between the homeowner and the HVAC contractor.
When installing a new AC system, find out the financing and warranty options offered by the HVAC contractors in your area. Once you are satisfied with the one that meets all your requirements, you have also succeeded in finding yourself an HVAC contractor as well.
Before Winding Up
Knowing what exactly you want (AC or HVAC), the size and type that is appropriate for your home, and how you are going to get it financed are the most critical aspects while upgrading. Once you are clear on all three of them, most of your confusion will dissolve. If there are any lingering concerns, ask your HVAC technician for help. Banking on their technical knowledge and considerable experience in the field will never permit you to make the wrong choice.
Aztil Air Conditioning can help the residents of West Palm Beach, Florida, make the correct choice when installing a new AC system. We are a family-owned HVAC business running successfully since 1981. Our work ethics and dedication to taking care of your home and office’s heating and cooling system will never make you regret partnering with us. Our air experts are fully trained to handle all types and brands of HVAC, AC, and furnace installations, repairs, and maintenance. We are your one-stop-shop for all heating and cooling requirements and even offer 24/7 emergency services. To book an appointment, give us a call at +1-888-729-8452.
