Buying an Air Conditioner: What to Look for When Shopping Around Austin, TX

As the summer heat swelters throughout Austin, Texas, home and business owners alike turn to air conditioning for relief. To make sure you choose the most suitable and energy-efficient unit, it is important to take into account various environmental, space-utilization, and budget factors well before purchasing an air conditioner. With all the models available, covering the key points can be daunting, but reviewing these factors can help you make the best choice for your needs.

What Type of Installation is Right For You?

The first step when shopping for an air conditioner is to identify the type of unit best suited to your specific environment. The two main categories of air conditioners are split and window units.

A split AC system is most commonly used in homes because it provides targeted cooling with loudspeaker-style indoor units, while the motor and compressor are typically found in a convenient outdoor location. These ACs will often cost more upfront but generally have lower bills and longer lifespans, make less noise, and allow for room-by-room temperature control.

For businesses or apartments, window air conditioners provide a more economical and easier installation process. These air conditioners are designed to be installed in windows and directly blow cool air into the room. An advantage to the window installations is that they are compact yet still provide effcient cooling.

Size Matters When Purchasing Air Conditioners

With the advancements in energy-efficient technologies, it is often possible to purchase a smaller unit than what was originally installed in the home or business. In order to achieve an adequate cooling level and use energy efficiently, the unit must be selected based on the size of the room in question, as opposed to BTUs (British Thermal Units).

Too small of a unit will have to work too hard, which can cause it to wear out faster. On the other hand, a unit that is too large can leave you with low humidity levels and create an environment where you will have to turn it off and on frequently.

Find the Best Energy Efficiency

High-efficiency air conditioners often offer up to 40 percent more efficiency than those from just a few years ago. New EPA standards have been put in place for certain types of air conditioners, and those that comply are Energy Star certified. As is true with any investment, it's worth spending a bit of extra money upfront if it will save you money in the long run. So, when making your purchase, compare the EER ratings (energy efficiency ratings) of the different units you're considering.

If you want to use a special feature, such as a programmable thermostat, to reduce your energy use, you should consider models equipped for that purpose. While such features are optional, they can lower your utility bills over the course of a few summers.

Valuable After-Sales Services

Even if you select a good-quality air conditioner, installation and repairs are inevitable. To make sure you get the best services, be sure to select a service provider that has thoroughly-trained technicians and offers 24/7 support. Abacus Residential and Commercial Plumbers, for instance, provides punctual services by well-trained, certified technicians who have years of experience in the industry.

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