More often than not, buying a new air conditioner is a stressful situation that came about due to an unpleasant and unexpected failure in hardware. One of the most inconvenient things that can happen to you and your family is to be without AC in the middle of a sweltering heatwave in the summer. Luckily, buying a new air conditioner does not have to be unbearable, as long as you follow the advice of professionals such as those here at Galmiche & Sons.
If you are in the market for a new air conditioner unit – whether by necessity or if you want to take advantage of newer technology, get a hold of our St. Louis heating & air conditioning specialists today to get expert guidance you can trust.
You can also learn about our six common mistakes that people make when purchasing a new air conditioner below, so that you can avoid them.
1. Ignoring Energy Efficiency (SEER Rating)
The long and the short of it is that when you are shopping for a new air conditioner and looking at energy efficiency numbers, the higher the SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) rating, the more efficient the unit is. Higher efficiency means more savings on power. The government minimum is currently 13, while anything above 16 is considered high efficiency. Compare to your older unit, which may have half the rating of a new one, and you are looking at considerable savings.
2. Missing Out on Rebates
With eco-consciousness being at the top of everyone’s minds these days, some states are offering rebates up to $1500 to offset some of the costs of higher efficiency new air conditioner systems. Your HVAC contractor is a good source of information for rebates in your state.
3. Getting Only One Estimate
As with any large purchase, it is always best to shop around for new air conditioner prices, installation costs, and permits.
4. Only Looking for the Lower Price
While it is always tempting to go with the lowest-priced option when making such a large purchase, you must always remember that the cheapest option is often not the best option in terms of value. That extra money you spend for a higher efficiency system could be nothing compared to the long term savings over the next 12 years of your new air conditioner’s life. You should also look for an HVAC company that has a sound track record in your area for providing reliable and expert service in order to ensure proper installation of your new air conditioner.
5. Not Looking into a Maintenance Contract
If you want to get maximum efficiently and the longest life out of your new air conditioner, maintenance is very important. Like any outdoor unit, over time wear and tear as well as dirt and debris can take its toll on the system. A maintenance contract will not only save you money, but ensures your new air conditioner is continuously kept in top working condition.
6. Not Paying Enough Attention to Refrigerant
These days, R-22 or Freon’s use is restricted in any new systems produced after the year 2009. Any new air conditioner you buy should use R-410A or other similar approved refrigerant.
Learn More About Buying a New Air Conditioner in St. Louis
If you are in the market for a new air conditioner for your St. Louis home, contact the heating & air conditioning experts at Galmiche & Sons today by phone or contact us online to request a quote for your new HVAC system.
