What to Consider When Shopping for a New AC
When shopping for a new air conditioning system for your home, try to avoid cutting corners. While it may save you some time and/or money now, it likely will cost you in significant money, comfort and trouble in the future. There’s a lot to keep in mind when you’re considering a new cooling system for your home, and we’ve got tons of experience helping to guide our customers to wise choices in a new HVAC system.
The Type and Specifications for Your AC
First, you’ll need to figure out what sort of system works best in your home – a package system, one or more single-room air conditioners, a ductless mini split system, or (the most common choice) a split-system forced-air AC or heat pump (the latter has the benefit of also providing heating). Most consumers tend to select whatever system they already have in their homes, and although that’s a simple choice, and one you probably already know the pros and cons for, it’s wise to at least consider some new options. The technology in HVAC systems has really improved and expanded over the years, and you might be surprised to learn that there are options out there that might improve your home’s heating and cooling situation while also being more cost effective. Ductless mini split systems are gaining in popularity, for example, for both energy efficiency and convenience. If you’re still relying on several portable or single-room AC units to cool your home, consider transitioning to a central cooling system or ductless mini split system, both for comfort and efficiency’s sake. Make sure you choose an established brand with a reputation for quality and durability. Your trusted HVAC contractor should help you in making this choice, though if you go online for help, take care that you only use authoritative and credible websites.
Cooling Efficiency in an AC System
The amount of cooling produced (or more correctly, heat removed) in the home per the energy that goes into an AC is measured by the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER), among other ratings. Higher SEER numbers mean higher efficiency and lower energy bills through the life of your system (which can be as long as10 years or more). Keep in mind that you get what you pay for, with higher efficiency typically commanding a higher price at the time of purchase and installation. Discuss with your Cincinnati area HVAC company what level of AC energy efficiency makes the most sense for Southwest Ohio’s hot and muggy summers.
AC System Maintenance Costs
Annual maintenance, both professional and do-it-yourself, is essential if you want your new air conditioner to provide efficient and effective cooling, to not require frequent repairs, and to continue operating for its full expected service life (or even beyond). An affordable and flexible preventative maintenance contract will help to ensure your AC system gets regular checks and tune ups, among other benefits. Don’t forget that basic homeowner maintenance is also called for, the most important task being your monthly inspection of the AC’s air filter and replacement when it gets clogged or dirty. We handle the big HVAC hassles, but don’t forget to change your filter!
Sizing of Your New AC System
Before making a decision about a new home cooling system, make sure that the company you’re working with intends to take the time and effort to determine the cooling load of your home as a prelude to determining and recommending the right capacity and size of the system. A common error is over-sizing or under-sizing new central air conditioning systems. (Pro tip: bigger isn’t always better in this case!) Both errors will result in problems down the road, including higher energy costs, unnecessary stress on the system (leading to eventual breakdowns and a shorter service life), and uneven or inadequate cooling.
Advanced Features in Your New AC System
Your AC will cool more efficiently if it’s equipped with a variable-speed air handler, thermal expansion valve and multi-stage compressor. Discuss the best options for your home with your qualified HVAC company. Also, consider whole-house humidity control and/or air cleaning if those are issues of concern for your home.
Here in Cincinnati, Rely on Jansen for a New AC System
We have decades of experience serving our communities across the Cincinnati area. We take pride in guiding our customers to good choices for new AC installations. You can trust our advice because we’ve been working with your neighbors for a long time, and we’ve built strong relationships throughout the Cincinnati area. We’ll answer all of your questions and make sure you feel comfortable with your choice. We’ll help you choose a system that’s the right size for your home, the right level of efficiency for your budget, and we’ll set you up with a free year of our Maintenance Club to get your new AC system off and running in the right way. Here in Cincinnati, working with Jansen Heating & Cooling is the best choice for a stress and hassle free installation of a new AC system for your home. Give us a call today to learn more about how we can help you take the hassle out of your HVAC installation and maintenance.