Consider these Factors when Buying a new Furnace, AC and/or Heat Pump
MetaWhen purchasing a new system from a Cincinnati heating and air conditioning company, there’s a lot to consider. At Jansen Heating & Cooling, we help homeowners take everything into account that will impact their energy costs both short- and long-term.
Here’s a comprehensive list of what we discuss with customers when it is time to upgrade their home comfort equipment:
1. System size and capacity
One of the first things we do is a load calculation. A system that is too large or too small can lead to inefficiency, unnecessarily high energy bills, and uneven temperature control.
Cincinnati’s cold winters and hot summers also figure into your heating and cooling needs.
2. Energy efficiency
In choosing new equipment, efficiency must be balanced against costs. A super-efficient (and more costly) system, for example, may not make sense for how long you intend to stay in your home.
- The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) measures the efficiency of cooling equipment. A high SEER rating of 14-22 will cool your home with less energy.
- The Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating measures heating efficiency in furnaces. Higher percentages are more fuel-efficient.
- An ENERGY STAR Certification, in general, means the equipment will save energy.
3. System type
Jansen Heating & Cooling sells, installs and maintains all of the following types of HVAC equipment:
- Central air conditioning
- Heat pumps, including geothermal options
- Ductless mini-split systems
- Furnaces
- Hybrid systems that combine a heat pump with a furnace for maximum flexibility
4. Installation quality
No matter what type of equipment you choose, professional installation of your HVAC system is critical. Hire a licensed and experienced HVAC company like Jansen to make sure everything is installed properly.
If you decide to buy from one company and have another company do the installation, be sure to check the installer’s reviews, references and certifications.
Many of our customers choose Carrier equipment, and as a Cincinnati Carrier Authorized furnace repair service, we receive frequent refresher training on the proper installation of Carrier equipment.
5. Cost
Your initial cost includes the equipment itself and the cost of installation. Operational costs include long-term utility bills and the maintenance of your equipment.
Governmental entities offer incentives to reduce consumer energy use to help protect the environment and cut our dependence on foreign energy suppliers. We can help you find local, state and federal rebates if you choose a high-efficiency system.
6. Features and technology
There are lots of options to make heating and cooling your home more convenient and less costly over the long run. Programmable/smart thermostats, zoning systems and air quality enhancements are just some of the options your Jansen technician can help you explore.
7. Warranties and maintenance
Each brand offers slightly different warranties on their equipment. We usually recommend equipment that comes with a comprehensive warranty covering parts and labor for repairs.
Maintenance also varies by equipment. A less-expensive system make require more visits from your heater repair company, for example, and not really be a bargain in the long run.
Many Jansen customers choose to join our Maintenance Club, which provides maintenance reminders, service discounts and preferred appointments.
8. Lifespan
HVAC systems generally last 10-20 years with regular maintenance. When you invest in a durable, well-reviewed brand, replacements and repairs will be less frequent.
9. The condition of your ductwork
We will inspect your ductwork for leaks, insulation and compatibility with the systems you are considering as part of our service.
10. Environmental impact
Eco-friendly refrigerants (e.g., R-410A) and high-efficiency operating systems can cut your carbon footprint.
11. Noise
Here is another area where paying more upfront is often a smart long-term decision. A quieter system (with a lower decibel rating) is crucial if your HVAC equipment will be located near living or sleeping areas.
Get a quote from Jansen today – we’d be happy to discuss affordable options that work best for you.