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What Should I Consider When Buying an Air Conditioner?
An air conditioner can be an important addition to the home. Aside from being a summer necessity in some areas, installed air conditioning can be a selling point when a home is on the market. It is important to consider a number of factors when purchasing an air conditioner, as a number of different models and varieties are available.
One of the most important steps is to consider the need and matching that to the most effective solution. Is the air conditioning needed for the entire house, or mostly for a single room? Additionally, how often will it be used? If air conditioning is only needed occasionally for a small area, a temporary in-window model might be more appropriate, as it can be removed when not necessary. On the other hand, if permanent air conditioning is needed for the entire home, a larger solution might be needed.
With an idea of the type of air conditioner needed, it is important to consider energy costs. Air conditioners can use significant power, and some units are more energy-efficient than others. Comparing models to find one saves energy while still performing effectively can save a significant amount on monthly power bills. Check the labels: most list the capacity of the model in British Thermal Units (BTUs) and give an idea of how energy-efficient the unit is. The more British Thermal Units, the greater the capacity of the unit. Additionally, some utility companies offer cash incentives to customers purchasing energy-friendly appliance replacements. Energy costs can make a huge difference when considering different air conditioners.
Of course, the price of the unit itself is a consideration as well, and it is important to shop around to get a good deal. However, the price of the unit itself should not be the only consideration. When comparing prices, it is important to factor in the cost of delivery and professional installation, if required. In some areas, product discounts and faster installation may be available in colder months when demand for air conditioners is lower.
When properly researched, purchased and installed, shopping for an air conditioner need not be difficult. Air conditioning can make a home more comfortable as well as more appealing to some home buyers. By considering needs and shopping around for a good deal, buyers can make a smart decision.
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Discussion Comments
For those of you who have a dog and consider them a part of the family you may want to consider buying an air conditioner for their doghouse.
I know where I am from that the summers can be sweltering and I hate the thought of my pooch suffering in the humidity and hot sun.
Installed systems can be very expensive and cost hundreds of dollars, but if you are on a budget you can also pick up ones that transform an ordinary cooler into an air conditioner for under one hundred dollars.
These air conditioners are not as powerful as the one for your own house, but work well for your pet.
Also, if you move a lot, make sure to get the portable variety so you can take it with you.
If you are considering buying an air conditioner a good tip is to put it on a credit card. Firstly, if anything goes wrong with the unit you buy, having a credit card company backing your purchase can make getting your refund for a faulty product much easier.
If you are lucky enough to have a gold or platinum credit card, check to see if your perks include a feature that will give you twice the length of time on your warranty.
When it comes to the warranty itself, make sure you actually read it. You don't want to be held at fault if you do something that voids your warranty.
There are some decisions to be made if whole house air conditioning is needed, or it is sufficient to buy a unit that will cool one or possibly two rooms. On one hand whole house air conditioning is more expensive to buy and install, it requires professional installation, and it is more expensive to run.
A smaller window unit for example, is cheaper to buy, does not need professional installation and uses less energy.
On the other hand whole house air conditioning adds to the value of the home and keeps the whole house cool.
Window air conditioning is somewhat unsightly, takes away the view, and it needs to be winterized, or removed from the window during cold winter months. So basically it depends on individual needs and the pocketbook.
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