When you have to buy a new air conditioner or furnace, you may feel pressured to make a quick purchase in order to get a working system again. Whether you’re replacing a broken system or just want an upgrade, making an informed decision can help you make the most of your investment. Avoiding the following pitfalls can help you choose wisely.
1. Getting Only One Estimate
Any quality HVAC company should offer free estimates for their potential customers. Getting more than one estimate can greatly increase your chance of making a wise purchase, as all HVAC companies differ in their prices for service, permits, installation costs and contracts.
2. Not Looking for Rebates
Especially if you purchase a high efficiency system, there is a good chance that you’ll qualify for a rebate. A number of states and manufacturers help buyers offset costs for certain HVAC systems by offering substantial rebates. In fact, in some states, the rebates can be as high as $1500. In order to take advantage of these potential savings, contact your contractor or visit www.dsireusa.org.
3. Choosing the Lowest Price
If you choose the lowest priced system simply for the savings, you might actually end up paying more in the long run. Lower efficiency HVAC systems are generally cheaper upfront, but they cost more in monthly energy costs, which can significantly impact your wallet long term. If you can afford to do so, buying a higher efficiency model can improve your energy bill as it will use energy more wisely.
4. Not Considering SEER
The SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio rating) is used to determine how energy efficient an HVAC system is. Systems with higher SEER can decrease your energy bill by up to half. While a 13 SEER rating is the lowest you’ll want to go, 15 is even better, and above 16 is considered high efficiency. A higher system will not only help you save money but will also improve your home’s comfort level.
5. Not Getting a Maintenance Contract
When you get your system installed, you won’t want to simply walk away. In order to make sure your HVAC system continues to work properly, you’ll want to make sure a company performs schedule maintenance on it. This maintenance will include clearing the system of debris, dirt and other foreign substances that can build up in the system and cause damage. This buildup also impacts the efficiency of the unit and increases energy costs. By investing in a maintenance contract, you can get a company you trust to come in annually and perform routine service. This will help extend the life of your system.
By avoiding these pitfalls, you can invest in a quality system that will not only save you from hidden expenses, but will also heat and cool your home comfortably.
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