Air conditioning is an important feature for homeowners across the country. An unairconditioned home can become hot and uncomfortable throughout the summer, while also warping wood and potentially encouraging mold growth.
However, few homeowners take the time to research their HVAC systems. Before you hire an air conditioning repair company or choose a new central air system for your home, make sure you aren’t falling for any of these common mistakes.
1. Failing to Consider Alternative Options
Oftentimes, consumers want a traditional HVAC system in their homes. These are systems that use an outdoor unit and indoor unit, along with a series of ducts, to push cool air through the home. However, there are viable alternatives to traditional HVAC systems that might be better for your space.
A ductless system allows you to cool a small space in a home that doesn’t have existing ductwork. For example, if your move into a historic home that doesn’t have AC, then a ductless system might be better. There are many benefits of a ductless system to smaller homes: You can install the indoor unit quickly (it fits on the wall) and the setup process is easier in most cases. You can also cool a specific room instead of the whole house. Consider investing in a ductless air conditioning system if a traditional compressor isn’t right for your space.
2. Buying Too Big
One major mistake homeowners make is opting for a large air conditioner to cool their home faster. With this logic, the more powerful the new system is, the cooler their home will be. However, choosing units in this manner is actually a mistake. First, units that cool faster won’t have time to remove humidity from the air. The house will be cold, but also damp.
Also, when space gets cold quickly, it is likely to heat up quickly again. The amount of energy you use will increase, driving up your utility bill. You won’t save time or money buying a system that is too big.
3. Buying Too Small
Alternatively, some homeowners buy air conditioners and heating systems that are too small. They think a small unit costs less and will create a smaller energy bill, along with less waste. However, small units have to run longer to cool houses in summer and heat rooms in the winter. In the meantime, your indoor air will be uncomfortable until your system is done running.
If you are worried about your carbon footprint, look for the energy star rating on your current system. If the unit you buy has a higher rating, there is a chance that you will use less energy to cool your space. Your ductless air conditioning system might also provide lower bills in the long run.
4. Ignoring Indoor Air Quality
Your cooling and heating system doesn’t just provide temperature control for your home. It also filters your air for better breathing. Quality air systems will pull pollen, dust, and other allergens from the air so you can breathe better. If you or a family member have asthma or allergies, make sure your central HVAC system or ductless unit can also filter the air so you breathe easier.
5. Forgetting Your Warranty
When your hire an HVAC company, they will provide a warranty for your new ductless system or HVAC unit. Ask about their warranty options and if you can get an extended warranty and transferable warranty on your air conditioner. A transferable warranty means the next homeowner after you has the same protections you do — and not all companies offer it.
Most homeowners don’t think about a transferable warranty unless they plan to sell the house in the near future. However, this added bonus can make your space more appealing.
Like any major appliance in your house, buying a new AC or heating system takes research. Consider whether a ductless system is right for you, or if your ductwork makes a traditional unit a better fit. Also, check for any rebates and tax credits for buying from certain brands and energy ratings. Through this process, you can better control your home’s temperature and air quality.