Whether you’re new to the task or an old pro, picking out a new heating and cooling system can seem like a daunting mission.
It’s not as easy as Googling and picking the first one you see!
When buying a new heating or cooling system you’ll need to assess your needs and make a few decisions in advance. But this doesn’t need to be an arduous task.
You can assess these needs by yourself. But it’s always easier to consult your heating and cooling technician and have them go through the options with you. This will make the process less stressful. And not to mention, it’ll also save you time and money.
Here are five things you should consider before buying a new heating or cooling system for your home.
What does your budget look like?
It’s always nice to know how much you’re willing to spend on your new heating or cooling unit in advance. Because the last thing you’d want is to pick out your dream system and then realize you can’t afford to bring it home.
The prices of heating and cooling systems can range from $8k-$30k depending on the scope of the work. And you should include the costs of having a professional install it as well.
Remember, cheaper units aren’t always the best option. And expensive units aren’t always necessary.
What heating and cooling capacity will you need?
Capacities tell you how well a heating and cooling system will heat up or cool down a certain amount of space. The most suitable heating or cooling capacity for your home depends on the size of the area it will be used in.
Larger areas will need higher heating or cooling capacities. And for smaller rooms, a lower heating or cooling capacity is acceptable.
If you don’t get a system with the right capacity, your unit won’t be able to shut down when necessary. Instead, it will keep running in order to maintain the temperature in your home.
This will skyrocket your electricity bill. And your system won’t even be effective. Hence, it’s essential to assess this part correctly.
Will it be energy-efficient?
Naturally, heating and cooling systems require significant energy to do the job. But this doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t still try to cut down on some of this energy use.
Different heating and cooling systems each have their own unique efficiency ratings. For example:
Air conditioner efficiency is measured via Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating (SEER)
Furnace efficiency is determined by its Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE)
The higher the rating is, the better the system is in terms of efficiency.
How noisy will it be?
Heating and cooling systems contain moving parts, so they’ll make some degree of noise. But certain systems tend to be worse than others in that area.
While this may not seem like such a big deal when you buy the system, the ratchet may quickly become unpleasant! On the other hand, many modern systems boast of being as quiet as a human whisper.
Does the system have good reviews?
The public opinion of your options can help you decide which one is the best fit for you. And by looking at reviews left by others, you’ll have an idea of what to expect from your system.
You’ll also be able to find out about any disadvantages not mentioned upfront quickly. And you’ll be able to avoid making your purchase blindly.
Your best bet is to always consult with professionals. If you’re unsure what your needs are, a professional can help you assess your home and determine which system is right for you. And if you have any questions at all, you can call Ballard at 909-297-1914 or schedule service online!