If you’re considering an air conditioning system for the first time or are approaching your first air conditioning replacement for the first time as a homeowner, there are several things you should know in advance. There are many different types of air conditioning available; not every heating and air unit is like the next. As the average air conditioning units last between 10 to 15 years, there’s a good chance that the air conditioning units on the market now are not exactly like the ones made available when your current unit was initially installed. You should take your air conditioning very seriously; after all, it will end up costing you a good amount of money as a unit, and for that matter will affect your monthly bills for the long-term future. Without further ado, let’s dive into what the types of air conditioning systems available, and what is right for your specific needs.
The Types Of Air Conditioning Systems Available
Again, there are many types of air conditioning systems on the market, and the one that you choose will have a strong affect on your experience as a homeowner. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heating and air conditioning your home accounts for about 43% of your monthly energy bill. As such, it may be a good idea to look at cost-effective units. Consider where you live when choosing your air conditioning system. If you live in a hot or humid area, cooling will be your first concern; if you live in an area with harsh winters, you obviously will want to consider the opposite. Of course, there are other matters to take into mind as well. You may more initially for some units, but they will cost less in the long term due to efficiency or a lack of maintenance needs. Air conditioning problems can cost a lot if they are recurring, and as such it’s important to keep in mind the quality of the unit you are buying.
Going Green: Energy Efficient Options
When it comes to going green, taking the environment into account with your air conditioning unit has multiple advantages. Not only are you being eco-friendly; you’re also being friendly to your wallet. Look for units that don’t have the refrigerant R-22, but rather R-410A. This refrigerant lacks chlorine is thus not as harmful to the earth’s ozone layer. More eco-friendly air conditioners tend to be more energy-efficient, thus lowering your monthly energy bill and saving you a lot of cash. Again, these units may initially cost more than others, but will have a profound effect on the amount of money you spend in the long term, thus returning on your original investment.
Central Air Conditioning Installation: The Most Important Step
When making your air conditioning maintenance checklist, remember that the initial installation is perhaps the most important step. An air conditioning installation can be easily botched when performed by amateurs, and that kind of mistake affects not only the effectiveness of your air conditioning unit, but the amount of money you end up spending as well. An inefficient air conditioner is an expensive air conditioner. The improper installation of your air conditioner can decrease your home’s heating and cooling efficiency by as much as 30%, and you will see that in your bill. As such, it’s important to not only have your air conditioning unit checked on a regular basis for maintenance purposes — don’t skip on hiring professionals for the initial installation. It may cost more than attempting to do it yourself, but that’s a short term cost. As previously mentioned, it’s the long term we’re really worried about.
If you don’t have an air conditioning unit already, join the majority of Americans who do! Air conditioners may everyday life more comfortable. And if you already have a unit but are replacing it for the first time, don’t be afraid. It may be intimidating at first, but it’s just a part of owning a home. With the help of professionals, it’s easier than you’d think.
