Is your air conditioning system eight years old or older? That means you might consider replacing it in the next few years. On the other hand, if your air conditioning system is newer, you want to ensure it continues to run well by scheduling maintenance at least annually. In any case, you will need to hire an AC consultant sooner or later. Here are five areas to consider during your search.
1. Home Evaluation
If you are looking for an air conditioning install in Newcastle, potential contractors should thoroughly evaluate the home to determine the best cooling solution. Factors that need to be considered are:
- The area of the house
- The R-value of the insulation
- The number of windows
After your assessment, the potential contractor should provide you with itemized estimates so you can compare costs, warranties, and energy efficiency across proposals. Don’t go with low prices alone. For example, in our climate, a better quality, more efficient furnace can offset the greater cost by using less fuel over time
2. Licensing and Experience
The air conditioning system is probably the most expensive appliance in the household, and you want to ensure that whoever works on it has the proper training. Newcastle requires appropriate licensing for contractors in the AC industry; To obtain a license, a contractor must have attained five years of experience in the field before applying for a permit.
It would be helpful to ask about the potential contractor’s experience. While longevity does not guarantee that a contractor will get the job done, business stability indicates that a contractor is doing something right.
Furthermore, ask if the contractor carries top brands and about training technicians with these brands: each system/manufacturer is unique, and a quality consultant will ensure that the technicians have been properly trained to optimize the installation.
3. Reviews and Referrals
Finding reviews and referrals can be one of the most important steps when looking for an air conditioning contractor. Ask if the job is done correctly and on time. Ask if the company will install it cleanly and respectfully on the owner’s property.
You can also check claims or ratings online, but remember that many online reviews are fake. Glowing reviews without details and bitter reviews without specifics are questionable.
4. Discounts and special offers
Air conditioning systems are expensive, so shop for energy-efficient equipment discounts or ask your dealer about specials. Look for a company that offers some rebates for efficient equipment installation.
It is recommended that if you receive any discounts, you should review them and your options with a qualified technician or AC company. Some discounts may apply only to the most expensive AC systems on the market, so you may get a better deal by purchasing a midsize unit that doesn’t qualify for the discount.
5. Efficiency
Efficiency is key when shopping for upgrades; you want the most efficient equipment you can afford. Ask the contractor about high EER and Energy Star Rated models. EnergyStar is a joint program of the Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency that rigorously tests AC equipment for efficiency.
