If you’re looking for an air conditioning unit, you’ve come to the right place. Finding the best AC unit can seem like a daunting task. The market is filled with different brands and models, so it can be hard to know which one is right for you. Fortunately, we’ve got all the info you need to make an informed decision when buying your new air conditioner. Whether you’re just starting out or are planning on adding air conditioning to your home in the future, this list will help you find the perfect unit at a great price. Keep reading to learn more about what you need to know before buying an air conditioner, as well as tips on how to get the most value out of your purchase while spending as little money as possible.
What To Look For When Buying An Air Conditioning Unit
AC units are like any appliance and can vary in quality. So, when you’re shopping for an air conditioner, it’s important to do your research. Here are some things to think about when going through the different brands and models of AC units:
What type of cooling is most effective
- Cooling coils that get hot can reduce the efficiency of your unit.
- If you’re looking for a unit that will improve energy efficiency and save money, consider an energy efficient unit.
- If you live in a humid area (like Florida), invest in a model that’s capable of dehumidification instead of cooling.
What size will fit your home
- A smaller unit may be more appropriate if you have a small room or apartment where the AC is needed only intermittently.
- You’ll need to make sure that the size fits your budget as well as the space it will occupy in your home. If you’re on a tight budget, don’t worry! There are plenty of affordable models out there if you know what to look for.
Will this be compatible with my ductwork? If your AC needs ductwork, make sure it’s compatible with your existing ducts so it doesn’t need major modifications before installation. This can save you time and money during installation and keep down any additional costs associated with ductwork repairs later on. Additionally, units that use parts that are compatible with ducts generally perform better
Check The Current Market Value
The first step in buying an AC unit is to check the current market value. If you want to get the best deal on a unit, doing your research is key. This can be done by checking online reviews or speaking with friends who already own one of the models you’re considering. Ideally, your AC unit should cost less than $500.
Figure Out How Much Cooling You Need
Before you purchase an AC unit, it’s important to know how much cooling you need. The more cooling you need, the larger the unit you should buy. Calculate how many square feet of space your air conditioning needs to cool down. Based on the square footage, use this calculator to figure out how many BTUs of cooling you need.
Don’t Forget About Energy Efficiency
When buying an air conditioning unit, you need to consider how much energy it will need. If you have an older home and/or plan on living in the home for a long time, you might consider buying a unit that uses less energy. Energy efficiency is important because you’ll save money on your power bill and help reduce global consumption of resources. When choosing an AC unit, be sure to focus on the manufacturer’s ratings. These ratings will tell you how efficient a unit is and if it has been UL or ETL certified.
Careful With Add-Ons
One of the most important things to keep in mind when buying an air conditioner is that there are a lot of add-ons you don’t need. Many contractors will try to sell you on extra features that might end up costing more than the unit itself. If you’re buying a new AC unit, make sure to ask if there are any add-ons available. If yes, then ask what those add-ons will cost you. There’s always a catch, but it’s better to find out now and save yourself the money later on.