It’s Summertime in the Charleston area, and the hot and humid weather means most homeowners are cranking up their air conditioning. But if your current AC unit is old, inefficient, or constantly breaking down, it may be time for a new system. Purchasing a new AC is a significant investment, so you’ll want to carefully consider your options. As a trusted HVAC company serving Mount Pleasant, SC and Charleston, SC, we recommend asking the following six questions to ensure you select the ideal air conditioning system for your home.
What size unit do I need?
The first step is calculating the appropriate BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating you require. A unit that’s too small won’t be able to cool your home properly on hot days, while an oversized AC will cycle on and off frequently, preventing steady temperature regulation. We’ll perform a detailed calculation of your home’s size, insulation, window area, and other factors to recommend the perfect BTU for effective, energy-efficient cooling.
What types of systems are available?
The most common residential air conditioning systems fall into two categories: split ductless systems and central forced air systems. Split ductless units have an outdoor condenser paired with one or more discrete indoor evaporator units mounted on walls or ceilings. Central forced air systems utilize ductwork to distribute cooled air throughout your home via vents. We’ll advise which configuration makes the most sense for your floor plan and budget.
How efficient is it?
Air conditioners are major energy hogs, so efficiency should play a pivotal role in your buying decision. Look for a unit with a high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating (SEER). Though very high-efficiency systems cost more upfront, the long-term energy savings are considerable. We’ll help you find the sweet spot between price and efficiency for your specific needs.
How much maintenance is required?
Some AC units require far more preventative maintenance than others to keep operating smoothly. This is especially important in coastal South Carolina where the humid, salt-laden air can tax HVAC components. We’ll recommend systems with easily cleanable air filters, durable heat exchangers, corrosion-resistant condensers, and features to facilitate maintenance access. This will help minimize both future repair costs and disruptive breakdowns.
How long is the warranty?
An air conditioner’s warranty indicates how much confidence the manufacturer has in the product’s reliability. While one year is standard, the best systems provide a 10-year or even lifetime warranty on key components like the compressor and heat exchanger. We’ll steer you towards units backed by strong manufacturer support should anything go wrong.
How qualified is the installation company?
Even a top-tier AC won’t perform to expectations if improperly installed by a cut-rate contractor. Complicated ducted systems require meticulous design, sizing, alignment, insulation, and integration
with your existing furnace or air handler. Leave it to our NATE-certified technicians with decades of expertise installing all makes and models of cooling equipment in Lowcountry homes. We’ll handle the permitting paperwork and ensure your project adheres to Charleston area building codes too.
Ready to Choose Your New AC? Let Us Help!
If it’s time to replace your aging or inadequate air conditioner, our team has the knowledge and experience to simplify an otherwise daunting decision process. We pride ourselves on providing tailored, honest guidance and quality installations at fair prices with no cut corners. Call us today to schedule a home consultation focused on your family’s cooling needs, comfort preferences and budget. Beat the heat this summer with your new, energy-efficient AC system expertly recommended and installed by our pros!