Every year, 6 million air conditioners get sold. They’re a popular way to make homes more livable, especially during the hot summer months.
An air conditioner is a vital appliance for your home. It keeps your family comfortable, increases the value of your home, and saves you money.
Yet, for many people, purchasing an air conditioner ends up being more hassle than it’s worth.
If you’re set on buying a new residential AC system soon, you’ll want to check out these air conditioner buying mistakes. We’ll tell you what to look out for so you can make a purchase that makes you happy.
1. Not Hiring a Professional for Installation
One mistake is not hiring a professional for installation. While it may be tempting to try to save money by doing it yourself or hiring a friend, it’s worth spending the extra money and having a professional do it. They have the experience and know-how to do it , ensuring that your AC unit will work and efficiently. Not to mention, they can also give you options for AC units that are best for your home and needs.
Installation can cost hundreds of dollars, and if you’re not careful, you can quickly end up spending more than you need to, especially when you don’t hire an hvac technician. Get a few quotes from different installers before you make your final decision.
2. Not Doing Enough Research on the Type of AC
One of the most common air conditioner buying mistakes is not doing enough research on the type of AC unit that is needed. It often leads to purchasing the wrong unit, which can be a very costly mistake. There are many different types and models of air conditioners on the market, so it is important to research to figure out which will best suit your needs.
People often forget to maintain their air conditioners, leading to expensive repairs. Regular maintenance and cleaning can help prolong the life of your air conditioner and prevent expensive repairs.
3. Not Considering the Size of the AC
When buying an air conditioner, one of the biggest mistakes you can make is not considering the unit size. If you buy a unit that is too small, it won’t be able to cool your home effectively.
On the other hand, if you buy a unit that is too large, it will cool your home and then shut off, resulting in wasted energy and money. The best way to avoid this mistake is to have a professional come to your home to determine the size of the air conditioner you need.
4. Not Getting a Warranty
One of the consumers’ biggest mistakes when buying an air conditioner is not getting a warranty. Warranties are important because they protect you from paying for repairs or replacements if something goes wrong with your unit.
Many manufacturers offer different warranty options, so be sure to read the fine print and understand what is covered before making your purchase. You could be stuck paying for costly repairs or a new unit if your air conditioner breaks down without a warranty.
5. Not Investigating Energy Efficiency Levels
One of the most important things to consider when buying an air conditioner is the energy efficiency level. Many people make the mistake of not investigating this aspect and end up with a unit that is too costly to operate. Check the energy efficiency rating (EER) to ensure you are getting a unit that will save you money on your energy bill.
Another mistake is assuming that the higher the BTU rating, the better the air conditioner. It is not always the case, as a higher BTU rating does not necessarily mean higher energy efficiency. It is more important to focus on the EER when making your purchase.
This mistake can lead to increased energy bills and a unit that doesn’t meet your cooling needs. Be sure to look for an energy efficient model that will save you money in the long run.
6. Not Reading Online Customer Reviews
When you’re in the market for a new air conditioner, it’s important to do your research to avoid making a costly mistake. One mistake that many people make is failing to read online reviews.
With so many choices on the market, it can be hard to know which air conditioner is the right one for you.
Online reviews can give you insights into the pros and cons of different models to make an informed decision.
7. Not Comparing AC Unit Costs
One of the biggest mistakes people make when buying an air conditioner is choosing the cheapest unit. Although the unit may be affordable, it likely won’t be as effective as more expensive models. It also doesn’t mean that the most expensive model is the best choice.
However, cheaper air conditioners also have a shorter lifespan, so you’ll spend more money in the long run. Sometimes, mid-range models offer the best value for your money.
To avoid this mistake, compare the prices of different brands and models before you make your purchase. There is a lot of competition in the air conditioner market, so you should be able to find a good deal if you take the time to shop around.
Finally, don’t forget to factor in the cost of running the air conditioner when making your decision. Some models are more energy-efficient than others, so comparing operating costs is essential before purchasing.
Avoid Air Conditioner Buying Mistakes
Air conditioners are a significant investment, so you want to avoid any mistakes that could cost you money or cause problems down the road. The common buying mistakes are: not hiring a professional installer, not doing enough research, not considering the size of the unit, not getting a warranty, not investigating energy efficiency, not reading online reviews, and not comparing costs. Avoid these air conditioner buying mistakes by researching, getting multiple quotes, and having a professional inspect your ductwork before purchasing a new air conditioner.
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