Common AC Purchasing Mistakes To Avoid

When it’s time to invest in a major home appliance like an air conditioner (AC), you want to be well informed. The good news is technology has made it easy to gather a great deal of information in a short period of time. The bad news is there are so many makes and models of air conditioners available, the entire process can get quickly overwhelming.

Our professionals at Design Air would be happy to help you sort out the options and help you make a smart investment. In the meantime, here are some top purchasing mistakes to avoid while you are doing your research.

Equating a Big Unit to More Cooling

It’s easy to want maximum cooling power, especially during the summer months in Montana. However, bigger does not always mean better in the case of air conditioning systems.

According to Home Energy magazine, air conditioner loads should be calculated carefully to select the right-sized air conditioner for your home. Our trained professionals can utilize Manual J load calculations and take into account the design and age of your Missoula home. We also assimilate the average temperatures and length of your summer to recommend the best air conditioner for your situation. Making the right decision will give you the highest level of comfort with the most efficient use of energy, resulting in lower operating costs over the life of your system.

Choosing the Least Expensive Unit

Air conditioners come in a wide range of designs, from basic cooling to integrated smart-home technology. The price range reflects the vast differences in makes and models. While purchasing price needs to play a role in your air conditioning selection, be sure it does not dictate your entire decision. You want to be sure your unit is appropriately sized for your home and provides you with the features and power you need. 

In addition, you will also want to look at the overall operating costs, not just the initial purchase price. Many higher-priced units run more efficiently over the long run, saving you money every month on your energy bills.

Selecting the Cheapest Air Conditioning Contractor

It’s understandable that you want to get the most service for your money. However, when it comes to installing a major system like an air conditioner, you don’t want to cut corners. Be sure you select an experienced professional who is bonded, insured, and licensed, like ours at Design Air. In addition, you may ask to see North American Technician Excellence (NATE) certifications for technicians. Going with the least expensive provider may lead to more expensive problems down the road.

Making Only a Verbal Agreement

Be sure to ask for a written statement of work, which should include an estimate, scope of work, time frame and schedule, and warranty information. The written agreement should also include payment terms including how much is due up front and when final payment is required. This step simply provides clarity to all parties involved and can help you avoid disputes later.

Replacing Partial Air Conditioner Unit

It’s always a balancing act to determine whether repair or replacement is the best option when your air conditioner breaks. However, once you make the decision to replace, it’s important to replace both the indoor and outdoor components at the same time. Replacing only one will most definitely affect the efficiency of the entire unit and may cause additional problems later on.

In addition, you may want to consider replacing your entire heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system all at once if your entire heating and cooling system is old or causing regular problems. Selecting an overall HVAC system that fits your home can ensure comfort year round.

Contact Us for Your Air Conditioning Needs

When it’s time to invest in a new air conditioning system, turn to Design Air in Missoula, MT, for help. Our team is standing by to provide information to help you make a good decision and answer any questions. Call 406-251-7997 or request service online today.