How to Replace an Air Conditioning Unit
When your older air conditioning unit has seen better days, chances are the time has come to invest in a new one. In order to make the best possible choice, it is important to consider several factors and compare different brands based on those criteria. Doing so will go a long way toward making a choice that not only keeps the home cool and comfortable, but also helps to minimize the power bill.
- Determine the size of air conditioning unit needed to adequately cool the interior space. Don’t go by the size of your older air conditioner, especially if it is over ten years old. There’s a good chance that a newer model will be capable of providing the same level of comfort with a smaller frame and less BTUs. Collect the measurements for your space and ask a professional to identify the right size range.
- Consider the range of features that would be helpful. Newer air conditioners are capable of cycling up or down in order to maintain a desired temperature. Some even come with remote control capability, making it possible to change the temperature settings from across the room. Look at how easily the intake and exhaust vents can be adjusted, so it will be possible to maximize comfort near the unit. The goal is to choose an air conditioning unit that has all the bells and whistles desired and is also easy to operate.
- Think in terms of maintenance and upkeep. While many air conditioner units will use standard filters, other will require customized filters that may be somewhat expensive. The same may be true for replacement parts. Focus attention on units that can be maintained and repaired using standard components that are readily available at reasonable prices.
- Check out the warranty. While air conditioning units are less expensive than in decades past, they still constitute a significant investment. Make sure the warranty covers repair and replacement of major parts with relatively little in the way of out of pocket expense to the buyer.
- Compare prices. After identifying several different brands that offer the right features and other benefits, focus attention on the cost of purchase. The idea is to secure the highest quality air conditioning unit while spending the least amount of money. If one brand is clearly less expensive than the rest, is made by a company with a solid reputation and will provide the features desired, that unit is likely to be the right option.