Six Things To Do Before You Replace Your Air Conditioner
Posted on: 14 December 2018
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Replacing your air conditioner promptly when necessary will keep your household company and keep your home as efficient as possible.
However, there are a few things you need to make sure you do before your new air conditioner is purchased and installed. The following are six things you should do before you replace your air conditioner:
Make sure your air conditioner needs replaced
Generally speaking, air conditioners and their components can be expected to last between 15 and 25 years. You can consult with your HVAC technician to determine whether or not it's time to replace your air conditioner.
Common signs that an air conditioner unit needs to be replaced include obstructed airflow through the unit, moisture development within the units, abnormally high utility bills, and unusual smells coming from the unit.
Find a model that's the right size for your home
The size air conditioner you need will depend both on the size of your home and the geographic region you live in.
You might want to reevaluate air conditioner size rather than just getting the same size air conditioner you had previously. This is especially true if you've had additions constructed on your home since the last time your air conditioner was replaced.
Consult with your HVAC technician to find the right air conditioner size for your home.
Consider maximizing energy efficiency
Buying a more efficient air conditioner can pay off in the long run by lowering your utility bills.
Consider looking out for Energy Star certified units to be sure that your air conditioner meets efficiency guidelines set forth by the Environmental Protection Agency.
Examine all the special features various units offer
Air conditioners can offer various features like zoned cooling or programmable thermostats. These features can make it much more convenient to cool your home precisely to keep your household comfortable.
Explore your options to find a unit that offers all the features you'll want to take advantage of.
Be aware of your unit's warranty options before purchase
You should be aware of the warranty coverage you'll get with your new air conditioner. Some units might come along with a lifetime warranty that will ensure that the costs of any repair needs are covered.
However, you need to know the terms of your warranty so that you don't accidentally void your warranty doing regular maintenance or having repairs performed during your air conditioner's life.
Find out what you'll need to do to maintain your new unit
Some air conditioners require more maintenance than others. You should discuss maintenance needs for particular units with your AC service technician before making a decision.
Typical maintenance that air conditioners require includes switching out filters and cleaning the outdoor unit. Looking for a unit that's easier and less expensive to maintain will help you out down the road.