You know it’s time to replace your old air conditioner when it starts making strange noises, doesn’t cool your home as well as it used to, or just plain breaks down. But before you head to the store and purchase the first air conditioner you see, there are a few factors you need to consider to find the best possible unit for your needs. This blog post will cover seven essential factors when shopping for a new air conditioner.
1. Size of the room
The room size will dictate how much power you need from an air conditioner. A general rule of thumb is that you need 20 BTUs (British Thermal Units) for each square foot of space. So, if your room is 200 square feet, you would need an AC unit with 4,000 BTUs. Of course, there are other factors to consider, such as whether the room is shaded or sunny, but this will give you a good starting point.
2. The climate in your area
Another factor to consider is the climate in your area. If you live in a room with very humid summers, you’ll want an AC unit with a higher BTU rating than if you live in a drier climate. This is because AC units not only cool the air but also remove moisture from the air, and more moisture means your AC has to work harder
3. Energy efficiency
Nowadays, all AC units must have an Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) of at least 10. This number represents the cooling capacity of an AC unit divided by the amount of power it uses. So, the higher the EER number, the more energy-efficient the unit is. You can find the EER number on the yellow Energy Guide label that comes with all new appliances
4. Noise levels
Nobody likes a noisy AC unit! When shopping for a new one, read reviews to find out how loud it is. In general, window units are louder than through-the-wall units, which are louder than central units. The good news is that newer models tend to be much quieter than older models, so even if you go with an older model, it will probably still be an improvement over your current one
5. Warranty and part replacement
Warranties vary by brand and model, but most warranties cover parts and labor for at least a year after purchase. Some manufacturers also offer extended warranties for an additional fee. It’s worth noting that most repair bills for AC units fall well within warranty coverage, so unless you’re planning on purchasing an extended warranty, it may not be worth the extra cost
6. Price
Of course, price is always a consideration when making any major purchase. You can find portable air conditioners for as little as $100, while central air units can cost several thousand dollars. Be sure to compare prices from different retailers before making your final decision. You may also want to check for any available rebates or tax credits that could lower your overall costs
7. Whether you have pets or allergies
One final thing to remember if you have pets or allergies is that some AC units come with special filters that can help remove pet dander or pollen from the air. These filters typically cost slightly more upfront but can save you money in the long run by reducing wear and tear on your unit
Final Thoughts
We hope this guide has been helpful as you navigate the process of choosing a new air conditioner for your home! If you have any further questions or concerns, our AC installation experts would be happy to assist you further.