What Mistakes You Should Avoid When Buying A New HVAC Unit?

Purchasing a new HVAC system is a major decision. As a Northern California homeowner, this may be the largest investment you make in your home. Even with extensive research, you may end up buying the wrong HVAC unit for your house. These are a few common mistakes you should avoid in order to save yourself from future headaches and hassles.

Ignoring Energy Efficiency Specifications

Ignoring energy efficiency specs could have adverse consequences on your monthly budget. Heating and cooling costs make for about two-thirds of the utility bill. Energy efficiency is an important consideration because it also impacts the system’s ability to keep up with demand.

You should look at the SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) rating and energy star rated products when looking for a new system. A unit is more efficient when the SEER rating is high. While these systems tend to cost more upfront, they also help in saving a lot of money in the long run.

Purchasing an Incorrectly Sized Unit

You should purchase a unit that is correctly sized as per your house. A unit that is too small will run longer to reach the set temperature. Conversely, a unit that is too big will use too much power and short cycle. This will result in higher operating costs and increased damage to the unit. It may also lead to an early breakdown.

Working With Only One Estimate

Buying a new HVAC unit is a major investment. You should make sure to get a few quotes even if you are in a hurry. Proven and experienced HVAC contractors can help you determine the best unit for your comfort and budget. You should not only compare the costs and the equipment, but also the company.

Choosing the Lowest Priced Unit

You should not focus exclusively on the cost of the unit. Price is an important consideration, but should not be the only factor. Lowest priced air conditioners will not provide the best value for your money. You should also consider quality, warranty, and type of unit. It’s best to find a unit that is reliable instead of something that is cheap.

Ignoring Rebate Options

Several local utility companies, states, and manufacturers offer rebates for offsetting the costs related to HVAC systems. This is especially true for companies with higher efficiency. You should not miss out on rebate opportunities.

Skipping Maintenance Contracts

You need a well-maintained unit for keeping the unit functioning efficiently and properly. Debris, dirt, and other pollutants can easily cause damage to a system over time. This can result in costly repairs. Build-up on the unit can result in a decrease in efficiency. The system will need to work harder leading to higher utility bills.

Not Asking Questions

You should not be afraid to ask questions since an HVAC system is a large investment. You should clarify anything that you don’t understand about the unit. Don’t hesitate to ask about the warranty, maintenance costs, life expectancy, and anything else that may add to the cost. It’s best to get your answers before you purchase a unit. This will help you gain complete confidence before installation. Don’t forget about ductwork replacement. You may need to have them replaced if your existing ductwork is damaged or dirty.