Air Conditioning Buying Tips

When it comes to finding the right air conditioning unit for your home there are several things to consider. Consider the following tips to help you choose the right air conditioning unit for your home.

Do You Need One?

The best time to consider buying air conditioning units is during the spring rebate season. This is the best time to upgrade an old unit or replace your current unit to one that has greater reliability. Often times during the summer there is less availability and higher prices on air conditioning units. This is why it can be a good idea to upgrade during the spring season. Between March and June, more efficient air conditioning models appear and you can get some good bargains.

Types of Units

There are four main types of air conditioners that you can consider: window units, wall units, portable units and whole house or central air units. When it comes to window units, you also have three separate types including double-hung windows, sliding windows and casement windows. Typically, window units offer you the choice of converting between types. Most small air conditioning units can be installed yourself while larger units will typically require installation by a professional.

Choosing Features

Most units typically come with an adjustable thermostat that has two cooling speeds, two fan speeds and an energy efficient setting, which stops the fan once the unit isn't actively cooling. You may also want to choose a unit that has adjustable vents, which allow you to aim the cool air exhaust vents, which allow you to bring fresh air in from the outside. Make sure the filter is easy to access so you can remove and clean it when necessary. It is ideal to make sure that your warrantee lasts five years with full replacement for at least a year.

Choosing Which Air Conditioning Unit to Purchase

It is best to buy a unit with proper capacity for your home. If you can afford the cost, it is best to choose a unit with the highest EER. If you buy a unit with a lower EER then the cost is typically a false economy. Although if you have a short cooling season where you live then a lower cost unit can help you save some money.

When it comes to checking your air conditioning unit, it can be a good idea to check with online rating systems. To find the best deal you should use online price comparison sites to determine where you can get the best price. Look at the manufacturer's website in order to find out the EER, BTU/Hour and list price of a specific unit. The manufacturer's website is also an excellent place to look for rebates on a specific unit.

Where to Buy

Since AC units are generally heavy, it can be a good idea to buy locally. It is best to buy from an Authorized Dealer or a manufacturer that will honor a warrantee or rebate. If you don't live near a manufacture store then you will need to buy online. If this is the case then you should choose a company that offers free delivery and make sure they have a good rating.