Despite the fact that most air conditioners can last a long time, you may be in a position where you need to choose a brand-new air conditioner for your home. Whether that's because of an add-on to your home or you're trying to replace an AC that has stopped working, choosing the right AC unit is important to make your family feel comfortable and healthy.
Below are a few questions you can ask as you're deciding on your next AC installation, but if there are any questions, contact an HVAC company for more information.
What's Your Budget?
Before you begin to look at makes and models, it's important to decide what kind of budget you're working with. If your budget is tight, you should look at a window unit, since most of them can be had for less than $500. If you're trying to cool down an entire home on a budget, central air is the way to go. These units will run you anywhere from $2,000 to $3,000, including the actual AC installation itself, and they are relatively inexpensive to maintain and can last from 15 to 20 years. If money isn't as much of an issue, and you want a system that will not only last a really long time but is also friendly to the environment, consider a geothermal system.
How Big Is Your Home?
As mentioned above, window units may be inexpensive, but that doesn't mean they're always the most efficient at cooling down large spaces. Ductless air systems are slightly more capable and can be integrated into your home's current HVAC setup, but even those are still best-suited for smaller spaces. Central air systems use ductwork throughout your house and do not have to be moved from room to room as a portable AC unit does. This is more than just an issue of convenience, however, since choosing an air conditioner that is too big for your house can increase the humidity levels in your home and cause breathing and comfort issues.
Are There Any Extra Requirements?
If you are especially energy-conscious, then you should look for air conditioning systems that are approved by Energy Star. This government program encourages brands to improve their energy efficiency, which is not only easier on the environment but also on your wallet. If you need an air conditioner that can be moved from room to room, portable systems and even window units can meet your need. Finally, if your space is more of an expansion under the current system, consider a ductless mini-split that can be installed easily and work with your existing setup.
For more information about AC installation, contact a local HVAC company, like Bowen Refrigeration.
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