HVAC Tips / March 16, 2016

Smart Tips for Your Next HVAC Purchase

All appliances serve a specific purpose, and eventually, they need to be replaced. How you choose to replace them comes down to their size, how you need them to perform, and how much they cost. After all, you probably wouldn’t choose a double oven if you’re cooking for two, just like you most likely wouldn’t select the largest, most expensive LED TV if you didn’t have time to watch it. When it comes time to replace your home’s HVAC system, Mauzy wants to help you make a smart choice.

Here are some of the factors that we’ll help you consider:

– Size. Size matters when it comes to selecting an HVAC system, because size impacts energy consumption and costs. Too large of a unit will not adequately remove humidity, while a unit that is too small will not be able to maintain a comfortable temperature on hot days. A mistake that many people make when replacing their old unit is choosing a newer model based on the old system’s capacity, when the old system was not sized correctly to start with. That’s why it’s essential to measure capacity correctly before installation, and to turn to a professional for guidance as needed.

– Reliability. No one wants to spend money replacing his or her old HVAC system, only for it to suddenly stop working soon thereafter. So, be sure to do your research. While there is no official index for HVAC reliability, you may want to turn to an impartial source, like Consumer Reports. The Mauzy team also provides recommendations based on our experience and expertise, as well as feedback that we receive from our customers.

– Efficiency. Most air conditioning units have an assigned number that’s known as the SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. Unfortunately, determining the SEER number for your new A/C unit isn’t as simple as choosing a specific number. When determining the impact of replacing your current system with a new system that has a different SEER rating, there are many factors to consider, including the size of the system, how long you anticipate living in your home, the regional climate, and how often you expect to use your HVAC system. Also, keep in mind that an HVAC system’s performance depends not only on the unit itself, but also on how well it’s installed and maintained.

– Price. It’s important to consider your budget prior to looking at HVAC units. Although you may make a large upfront investment for a unit with a higher efficiency rating, it may save you money in the long run. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, today’s best air conditioners use 30% to 50% less energy to produce the same amount of cool air as air conditioners made in the 1970s. So, if your A/C unit is only a decade old, you may save 20% to 40% on energy costs by replacing it with a newer, more efficient model.

The Smartest Tip of All

Consult with an expert! As you can see, there are many variables that play a part in this decision-making process. Mauzy recognizes that each home is unique in relation to its heating and cooling needs. From insulation to thermostats, our comfort specialists will address your questions and concerns.

Don’t wait for the warmest temperatures of the year. Give us a call today at 619. 448. 9545 or use our online contact form, and we’ll be in touch shortly!