5 Things to Consider When Buying an Air Conditioner in Austin, TX

When buying an air conditioner in Austin, Texas, homeowners need to consider 5 key factors: efficiency, size, features, cost, and ease of installation. Each is important and should not be overlooked when making a purchasing decision. Luckily, Abacus residential and commercial plumbers are here to provide reliable HVAC installation and maintenance services to ensure you get the most out of your air conditioning investment.

In the hot Texan climate, getting the right air conditioner is a must. Efficiency is one of the most important things to consider when buying an air conditioner because it will determine how much you spend on energy bills year after year. Fortunately, federal law requires that all air conditioners now sold are at least 13 SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating), which helps to ensure that you are purchasing a unit with satisfactory efficiency. When shopping for an air conditioner, look for one with as high a SEER rating as possible; the higher the number, the more energy efficient the air conditioner is.

Size Matters

While efficiency is critical, size is just as important. If you make the mistake and purchase an air conditioner that is too small for your space, you run the risk of not getting any kind of cooling in the summer months. On the other hand, an air conditioner that is too large can be just as bad because it will lead to energy overuse as well as poor humidity control. To get an accurate measure of the cooling capacity you need for your home, hire a licensed HVAC contractor to provide a load calculation.

Features to Look For

When shopping for air conditioners, it's important to get one with features that suit your needs. Some air conditioners come equipped with features such as dehumidifying capabilities, zone control, and more. As for noise reduction, if you want to purchase an ultra-quiet air conditioner, look for one with a minimum of 19 dB(A), which is incredibly quiet compared to most models.

Cost Considerations

No homeowner wants to be taken by surprise when it comes to costs. Do some research to get an idea of the type of air conditioner you can afford for your budget. Make sure to factor in the cost of installation, as that can often be a significant additional expense. For reliable installation services, it is good to hire a licensed HVAC contractor, as they will make sure your air conditioner is correctly installed and functioning properly. Additionally, be sure to check for warranty options and energy costs.

Ease of Installation

When buying an air conditioner, consider the installation process. Your HVAC contractor can help you determine the type of installation that will be needed and whether or not you need to build additional reinforcement or ductwork. Consider the amount of space you have to install the unit and the ease of access. This will help you find the right unit and a qualified contractor that is up to the task.

When it comes to buying an air conditioner in Austin, TX, it is important to take the time to consider each of these 5 factors. Efficiency, size, features, cost, and ease of installation are all important factors that must be taken into account before making a purchase. By taking the time to research and hire an experienced HVAC contractor, you can ensure that you get the perfect air conditioner for your home and your budget.

Air Conditioners

Austin TX

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