When the weather heats up, thinking about cooling down your home can make you sweat-- literally. Installing or replacing a new air conditioning unit can be a stressful time, but it doesn’t always have to be. Research and develop a game plan before shopping around to reduce your anguish and ensure that you will buy the most effective product.Types of Units
First, make certain that you have a knowledge base on the types of units sold. A/C units can be window or wall-mounted, as well as completely portable. It’s always helpful to talk over your options and pricing with an expert, but make sure to have measurements taken in advance. For example, if the room is only small enough to host a bed and dresser, a wall mount is probably not the best option for you. Window mounts can save space, but if you like to live on the edge, go for that wall mount renovation. However, you might be sleeping on the floor.
Window mounted A/C units tend to be noisier models, since they will rumble against the window sill. On the other hand, portable and wall-mounted units collect air moisture into a tank or tray that will have to be emptied regularly, whereas window mounts vent through the system internally.
Key Features
Once you decide which A/C unit is best for you, there are key features that you should verify are in place. Energy-saver switches are essential to keep track of proper consumption and can potentially save you money. Warning lights such as the “check filter” indicator are great ways to make sure that you are maintaining a clean, safe environment to live in. Pre-set features like timers, sleep modes, and oscillating vents guarantee that you have to do the bare minimum to keep your room comfortable.
Other additional features that aren’t needed, but are an added bonus, include a remote control that allows you to control the temperature from anywhere in the room. When you’re feeling lazy after a long day of work, this feature could actually become a requirement!
Additional Costs
When buying your unit, be sure to ask about the manufacturer’s warranty and installation costs. Nothing says “welcome to the neighborhood” like having your A/C unit malfunction and fall out the window possibly onto your neighbor’s side porch. We don’t foresee that being an efficient way to meet the folks next door.
Of course price will be a significant factor when buying such an essential piece of equipment. Some units can be as low as $50 to upwards of $800 if you’re feeling fancy. However, the key point to keep in mind is to find an A/C unit that is compatible with your lifestyle. Best of luck and happy A/C hunting!
Do you need some information on a new A/C system for your home? Shipley Energy offers a full line of high efficiency A/C units.
