5 Things to Know Before Buying a New A/C Unit

Whether you need to replace an existing air conditioning system or you need to install a unit in a new home, it’s important to conduct research before starting the shopping process. With such a vast selection available and so many different factors to keep in mind when finding the right fit for your home, there is a lot to take in when purchasing a new A/C unit.Here are five things you should know before you start shopping for your new air conditioner:
1. The Size of Your Unit is Dependent on the Size of Your Space
Selecting the size of your air conditioner is a very important first step when shopping for a new unit. The size of the unit you select should correspond with the size of the home you are cooling. While a large unit may cool your home quicker, it might struggle to keep your home at a consistent temperature.
Another factor to keep in mind is the cooling capacity of the air conditioner, which is typically measured in BTUs or British thermal units.
To ensure you get the right sized unit and that the BTUs will function effectively for your home, you should enlist the aid of a professional. MTB Mechanical has vast experience in evaluating homes to help you choose the best A/C system per your square footage.
2. Set a Budget for the Cost of the New A/C Unit
Like any upgrades you make in your home, a new air conditioning unit is an investment. While you want to purchase a system that will be with your home for the long haul, you also want to ensure you are keeping your budget in mind.
By telling your technician your budget up front, he can help you find options that will not break the bank, but will keep your home cool. Additionally, he can give you some guidance as to how often preventative maintenance should be carried out to keep your system working longer.
3. Understand How Your Air Conditioner Impacts Your Energy Bill
Did you know air conditioning takes up about 60-70 percent of your energy bill during the summer months? Therefore, when shopping for a new A/C unit, it’s imperative to keep energy efficiency in mind. Always look for the energy star rating on a system before purchasing. The more star ratings there are, the more energy efficient the system is and the lower your power bill will be.
4. Ask About Warranties and Life Expectancy
An air conditioning unit is typically expected to last about 12 years. And by keeping your unit serviced regularly, you should expect to see very few issues, if any at all. At the same time, it’s important to ensure you are purchasing a system with a warranty and with reviews showing longevity.
If you’re uncertain as to what the warranty is on the system or the expected lifespan, always ask a professional.
5. Keep Your Air Quality in Mind
A final factor to consider is air quality. What many people don’t realize is the air quality inside your home is generally 20 times more polluted than the air quality outdoors. So in addition to your A/C unit, it might be worth looking into a air purification system as well, if your budget allows.
Ready to Call an Expert?
Now that you’ve done your research, it’s time to begin shopping! Reach out to MTB Mechanical today by calling (704) 459-4066 or by filling out the form on the website. Our professionals can walk you through the process and provide you with additional information to find the right fit for your home!
So, what are you waiting for? Get in touch with MTB!