Top 5 AC Installation Tips for Homeowners
AC Installation Pointers for Homeowners
If you carefully read home improvement guides and HVAC articles, you have learned the value of regularly maintaining your air conditioner and keeping it clean. However, like all mechanical systems, the year will come when the next repair will not be cost-effective, and you will face replacing the entire system. Typically, the air conditioner will fail before the furnace/heater. It is most often more cost-effective to join the technology of a new furnace and AC, rather than mixing old and new components. Since replacing the HVAC system is not a DIY project, there are some steps you can take to prepare yourself for the decisions you face.
- Educate Yourself Concerning Choices
We are not suggesting you take a tech-school course on HVAC system technology, but make sure you understand what you are buying. Brochures for your new system will use industry-standard abbreviations, such as BTUs, SEER, and R410A. Use the internet wisely to define things you do not understand. Do not rely upon a salesperson’s pitch.
Learn enough to distinguish the differences between two systems and to determine whether you are getting a great value or an exceptional value. IMPORTANT CLUE: much of the language concerning HVAC systems will tout energy efficiency. This will become very important after the installation.
- Prepare for A “Load Calculation”
As part of the process, expect the contractor to complete a “load calculation.” This is an inspection and evaluation of your home that helps determine the proper “size” of your system. Details concerning your home are compiled, including square footage, insulation type, number/size of windows and doors, and room layout.
These details will put your home within a range of choices for both heating and cooling equipment. A load calculation avoids under or over-sizing the equipment; both will shorten the useful life of your HVAC system.
A contractor that suggests replacing your HVAC without running a load calculation is trying to take a shortcut. Your purchase should last for 15 or 20 years at a minimum, so make sure to size your equipment correctly. BTW, the load calculation should be completed with on charge. Expect each potential contractor to run their own evaluation.
- Understand Your AC Installation Company’s Credentials
A license demonstrates the firm has completed the necessary paperwork to do business in a particular location. Bonding and insurance mean they are committed to protecting you and your property should something unfortunate happen during the installation.
Certifications document that both the firm and the technicians have established relations with manufacturers; they validate the required training to ensure everyone involved is trained to install and service the equipment in your home. Membership in organizations, such as ASHRAE, demonstrates a voluntary commitment to continuing education and maintaining industry standards for work completed.
- AC Installation References and Reviews
When you make large purchases, it is always best to ask others about their experiences with your contractor. The Better Business Bureau registers and records business complaints. Referrals and reviews register and record positive comments. Whenever possible, the best review comes from face-to-face conversations.
- AC Installation Incentives
Check with your contract concerning various incentives that might be available for your purchase. Sometimes the manufacturer gives significant discounts. Sometimes utility companies offer rebates to encourage energy efficiency. Sometimes state and federal agencies offer incentives for the same reason. Your contractor will have details on every incentive available.
Let us help You with Your AC Installation
Let us help with your next AC Installation. Call Doctor Cool & Professor Heat today at 281-338-8751 or email Doctor Cool and let our professional AC Installation technicians assist with all of your Air Conditioning Issues.
