It’s estimated that roughly 85% of homes in the country are equipped with some sort of heating and cooling system. For homeowners and renters, this system means enjoying the comfort of on-demand temperature adjustments to stay comfortable in their homes. If you’re looking to invest in an HVAC unit for yourself, you’ll quickly realize there is an abundance of options. Among the different models, you’ll find a variety of brands, some old and some new. To determine which brand is right for your home, ask yourself the questions below when making your next purchase.
1. How Long Have They Been Around?
Many HVAC companies have been around for generations, which means you can likely trust them to make a product that lasts. When it comes to quality service, Plano air conditioning and heating company can help you with their service. However, don’t limit yourself to these types of manufacturers. Look around and see what each company has to offer; you might find that some brands have units that are more suitable for your needs. While you don’t have to read the entire history of each company before making your purchase, it’s important to get to know more about your options. Doing so can tell you a lot about how they manufacture products, their founding principles, and how their company has managed to stay in business.
2. What Do Customers Say?
Reading online reviews that customers have posted is incredibly important when making a big investment in an HVAC unit. The positive reviews will tell you what is good about the company, the products, and the maintenance. However, don’t limit yourself to only reading positive reviews. It’s also important to read those that are negative so you can find out why some buyers had a poor experience. If a company has an overwhelming number of bad reviews, it’s probably best to avoid them completely, even if they are the lowest cost option.
3. Is the Technology New?
Technology in HVAC systems can vary, so the system your parents went with may not be the right fit for you. If you’re interested in a smart thermostat, a sustainable heating and cooling system, or preventative maintenance, then it’s important to find a company that supports that. Any questions should be directed to the company so they can give you insight into different units that fit your needs. You may also want to ask how their company will continue to support that technology in the future.
Although newer technology may cost you more initially, it is generally worth it for energy savings throughout the year. In fact, the savings on your energy bill can make even a higher-priced HVAC unit a more budget-friendly option in the long run. The retailer you purchase from can give you more clarification on what is in your best interest regarding your budget.
4. Do They Offer a Warranty?
The last thing you want to experience is your HVAC system having issues a couple of months after purchase. However, if this does happen, a warranty can offer you coverage that will save you both time and money. Always look for information about a warranty before you finalize your purchase. If there is one, then find out how long it lasts and what it will cover. Some companies offer a better warranty than others, which can make it worthwhile to spend a little bit more on some brands.
5. Are There Authorized Retailers and Installers Near You?
It’s important to have an authorized retailer and installer take care of the sale and installation of your HVAC unit. These units are incredibly complex, so it takes quite a bit of training to ensure technicians have the proper knowledge. If you hire an installer who doesn’t have that training, they may not be able to do the job safely, and it may not be completed properly. Since you are spending a lot of money on this investment, it’s important to work with someone who can ensure it is hooked up and running correctly from the very start.
6. The Price is Fair
The complexity of an HVAC unit is reflected in the relatively high price tag. You can expect to pay even more if you are investing in a dual-zone unit or you need one that can handle heating and cooling a large amount of space. While the out-of-pocket cost may initially be a lot, it’s reasonable to expect the unit to last anywhere from 10 to 20 years with proper maintenance. While prices of different units vary based on their size and specifications, it’s still important to compare prices. Some manufacturers are simply more affordable than others and may fit better into your budget.
When comparison shopping, never assume that the most expensive option is the best. You might be surprised by the brands that don’t charge a lot for something that will last a long time. However, your purchase should be based on your needs, the size of the home you have, and your budget (including installation).
7. Learn About Maintenance Requirements
Every HVAC brand requires routine maintenance to keep the unit running as smoothly as possible. Fortunately,maintenance can also mean this investment lasting three decades or even longer. The requirements to maintain good health in your heating and cooling unit will depend on your model and the brand you purchased from. Compare maintenance requirements for each brand before buying so you can determine which is easiest for your schedule and budget. You can also speak with your brand representative to learn more about how maintenance works and what you can expect to spend throughout the year.
Finding the Right Heating and Cooling System to Keep Your Home Comfortable
HVAC units are not cheap, but they are necessary purchases to help maintain inside of your home. Since this is such a large investment, it’s important to do your homework and look closely at the different brands that are available. Each will have different types of units that offer their own unique qualities. By doing a little bit of brand comparison, it will be much easier to find which is going to help keep your home comfortable for the next 10 to 20+ years.
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