Two very
important things to consider when buying a new air conditioner include hiring a
contractor and getting an Energy Star Quality Installation. Energy Star heating and air conditioning
units typically cost more, but the cost difference is quickly absorbed by energy
savings.
Here are
some tips for hiring a heating and cooling contractor to install your new air
conditioner:
Research
different companies, verify their license and insurance meets requirements in
your state. Make sure the contractor
carries Energy Star products
Get
referrals from friends, neighbors or co-workers
Shop for
specials, discounts, income tax incentives and rebate offers available on
Energy Star AC and heating equipment
Get a
compete evaluation before choosing a new air conditioner. The heating and cooling contractor should be
willing to spend significant time inspecting the current unit, duct work, home
specifications, etc…to be sure the system installed is the right size for the
area being heated and cooled.
Get written
estimates and warranty information and make sure you understand the
details. When comparing bids, consider
not only the total cost, but the value of the product, energy-efficiency,
guarantee and the overall impression of the contractor. Is he friendly or rude? Did he track mud through the home? Did he listen to your concerns and answer you
questions?
What is
Energy Star Quality Installation?
Components
of a quality installation include:
Proper size
– Bigger is not always better. It is
critical to install the proper size equipment for the home to get the best
performance. A heating and cooling
system operates best when each component is properly sized. An oversized unit may cycle too frequently
which will reduce energy efficiency, comfort in the home and the life of the
equipment. The service technician must
take measurements of the home to determine the appropriate size for an air
conditioner, furnace or heat pump.
Duct
sealing – Damaged ducts with poor connections are less efficient in circulating
air from the furnace or air conditioner throughout the home. An Energy Star Quality Installation requires
the contractor measure duct leakage and make necessary repairs to minimize
loss.
Ai flow
analysis – Energy Star Quality Installation includes an air flow analysis to
ensure the proper volume of air flow.
Too high or too low can resulting less comfort and increased energy
bills.
Proper
refrigerant charge – This is applicable to central air conditioners and heat
pumps. It is important to have the
correct amount of refrigerant, or correct refrigerant charge for efficient
cooling and dehumidification.
A heating
and cooling system is one of most expensive purchases a homeowner can
make. Buying the right system and having
it installed by the right contractor will make a big difference in cost versus
value, which is the bottom line when making any large purchase. Most important, be sure to read the service
manual and know how to care for the system.
Read HVAC Maintenance Checklist to learn more.
Appliance Parts Today
opened in March of 2003, specializing in assisting the DIY appliance repair
customer. While many air conditioning parts
suppliers will only do business with licensed contractors, Appliance Parts
Today is happy to assist the general public.
The local AC
parts store carries a complete line of Goodman air conditioning parts and
their friendly staff is happy to provide technical advice when needed.