Air conditioners utilize about 6% of the electricity produced in the U.S. If you have an old air conditioning system, you’ve probably noticed that the bill keeps skyrocketing. It’s time to get an energy-efficient system!
An air conditioning installation isn’t as straightforward. It’s not just about calling a technician and having your unit installed. You have to make several preparations for the process to be seamless.
Are you scheduling for your heating and air conditioning installation appointment? Here are seven crucial steps you need to take.
1. Vet Your HVAC Contractor
HVAC installation is a complex project that requires professionals. When you search ‘HVAC contractors near me,’ the results will be inexhaustible. You’ll be spoilt for choice, but you need to select the right contractor.
It would help to research widely to find a contractor that meets your AC needs.
Recommendations and customer reviews will guide you in identifying the right company.
Once you have a list of at least five contractors, vet each of the professionals to know more about their expertise.
Other factors to consider when selecting a contractor is the location. A local contractor can be ideal as you’ll be confident that you can get emergency AC repair if a need arises. The technology and tools a contractor use should also be among the factors to consider when shopping for an HVAC expert.
2. Have a Thorough HVAC System Inspection
If your HVAC has been malfunctioning, you might want to have it inspected before going for a replacement. Your system probably needs a furnace repair. You’ll never know unless you request your HVAC contractor to make a thorough inspection.
An experienced technician can check whether heating and cooling repair is a viable option. While you might want to save money, it wouldn’t be wise to spend more than half of the unit’s price for repairs. A new HVAC would be a better option.
The inspection gives you insights into the system that will be compatible with your venting and ducting setup. An inspection is essential, whether you’re repairing your system or replacing it with a new one.
3. Estimate the Costs
When looking for residential air conditioning services, knowing the approximate cost is essential. The estimates will help you create a realistic budget. Besides, you don’t want to deal with surprise costs along the way.
It would be best to get quotes from at least three HVAC contractors or firms. Note that the price estimate depends largely on the square footage of your home. As such, the HVAC inspection should also involve measuring your home’s square footage to give you headway when requesting cost estimates.
While getting a bargain for your HVAC installation is exciting, the price shouldn’t be your main consideration. HVAC installation is a valuable investment, and getting it right is indispensable. Quality should override prices at all costs.
4. Understand Your HVAC System
Air conditioning systems come in different types. They are never a one-size-fits-all, and it would be wise to know the AC suitable for your home before signing up for heating and air conditioning installation. These units have unique characteristics, with diverse functionalities.
A geothermal system is one of the air conditioning systems that can be ideal for your home. The system is eco-friendly as it utilizes an in-ground loop to heat and cool your house depending on the seasons.
The traditional split system is a popular choice of AC system. It has an outdoor and indoor unit delivering cold air through the ducts.
The ductless mini-split system has an outdoor unit, though it uses individual blowers within the home.
5. Clean and Seal the Ducts
It would help if you cleaned your old ducts in preparation for the new system installation. Ducts often harbor dust particles and other debris that can damage your new HVAC unit. Dirty ducts can have adverse effects on air circulation and quality.
Duct cleaning can be an easy DIY project. If you’re unsure of how to go about it, reach out to AC companies that offer such services. Regardless of the urgency in getting a new system, don’t install your new AC on a dirty old duct system.
Duct losses can lead to about 30% of energy consumption. You need to seal the ducts well. It would be illogical to get an energy-efficient system and still experience hikes in utility bills due to leaking ducts.
6. Create Space
Before the HVAC unit gets to your home, be sure to create ample space. You can do this by clearing the areas around the targeted section of your home. Set aside a specific room or rooms to accommodate all the equipment and the team undertaking the repairs.
You may also consider clearing the path from the entrance to the area designated for the AC repair process. You should consider locking pets away in a separate room for the sake of their safety.
It’s important to get tables, chairs, or other movable items out of the way as a precautionary measure. This move not only minimizes potential damage but also gives the HVAC technicians a conducive working environment.
7. Research About Any Incentives or Tax Rebates
Most homeowners are unaware of the HVAC system tax credits they can utilize. Before your HVAC appointment, it would be important to consider any government incentives that can help ease the repair costs. Depending on which state you are in, you might save significantly on tax credits when you go for energy-efficient HVAC systems or parts.
It would also help to inquire about the federal rebate incentives when installing an energy-efficient AC. Such information will determine what parts or components of your HVAC system can lead to savings.
Getting It Right With Heating and Air Conditioning Installation Is the Dream of Any Homeowner
If you want to replace your old HVAC system, proper installation is indispensable. Improper heating and air conditioning installation can reduce the efficiency of the system significantly. You’ll need to make adequate preparations to ensure that you get the best system and exceptional installation.
If you’re a homeowner, the range of articles on our blog will interest you. Our blog has a variety of amazing categories in the bathroom, bedroom, living room, kitchen, and outdoors. Check out our design ideas and DIY crafts to improve your home.
