Even in the middle of a pandemic, customers are calling our office to inquire about replacing their air conditioner. Why? Well, we think it’s because many of us are spending a lot of time indoors at the moment. We bet you’re more aware than ever about how your home is functioning.
Also, it’s May. Every year, people start thinking about the possibility of a hot summer around this time. This may be especially true this year, as we all contemplate staying home instead of going on summer trips.
How do I know if I need to upgrade my air conditioner?
First, observe your system. To determine whether or not you need an upgrade, consider these:
Age. If your system is more than 10 years old, it may be starting to falter. If it’s 20 years old, it’s at the end of its expected life cycle.
Behavior. If your system is short-cycling (turning on and off a lot) or can’t keep the temperature where you want it, then it’s not running efficiently. If it’s making weird noises—such as buzzing, clicking, or squealing—it could be a sign that it’s time to upgrade.
Type of system. If you have a dedicated air conditioning unit, you could explore a heat pump system, which can help you save money as you heat and cool your home. You can also check out variable speed systems, which deliver a whole new level of comfort and quietness.
How do I know if it’s finally time to add an air conditioning system?
Only you can make that decision, but here are a few questions to ask yourself:
Does my home get uncomfortable in the summer? Your home is in a unique setting. If you live in a snug house beneath large deciduous trees, it may be fine for you in the summer and may even remain tolerable on very hot days.
But if, for instance, your home has large windows, little coverage from trees and other foliage, and is situated in an exposed area, there may be no way to keep it cool without a cooling system. Your situation may dictate your choice for you.
Is it muggy in the house? Even if the temperature feels fine, the air in your home may feel sticky. Indoor humidity can build up in well-insulated homes, especially if you’re doing a lot of cooking. An air conditioner regulates temperature and humidity. Bonus: with an air conditioner, you can keep your windows closed at night for extra security.
Is my entire home comfortable? If you have a multi-level home, chances are the upstairs is warmer than the downstairs during the summer months. A variable speed system can help equalize multiple levels to make your entire house livable throughout the year.
Do I have a separate space that gets too warm to use? If you have a space that’s separate from your main house—such as a bonus room above the garage, a music or yoga studio, or a wood shop, consider a ductless system. These wall-mounted units are perfect for one-room giving you heating and cooling control of a dedicated space.
What’s the next step?
Though we can’t make in-person visits right now, we do offer individualized virtual assessments.
Just fill out a survey on our website, where you can answer a few questions, describe what you’re looking for, and upload photos. We’ll follow up with a phone appointment or email exchange detailing our recommendations and answering your questions. Our goal is to spell out your options so you can make an informed decision.
And once you’ve made your decision, we have great financing options: for qualifying systems, you can get 0% for up to 60 months plus up to $1,200 in rebates! Ask us about it. We’d love to make it possible for you to be cool and comfy this summer.
Photo Credit to One Beautifull Life Photo