Selecting the right central air conditioner

Written by: Steven Bryan

If you use standard window air conditioners to keep your home or office cool during the summer, you may want to consider buying a central air conditioner. And with technology getting better and prices becoming more affordable, it may be time to drop your older central air unit for a newer model.

Central air conditioner features

By investing in a new air conditioning unit, you’ll receive three useful benefits right away:

1. Cost savings. Older units don't operate as efficiently as newer ones, so look for models and brands that carry the Energy Star label. A joint effort of the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Energy Star program promotes more efficient products that save energy as well as the environment.
2. Noise reduction. Window air conditioning units can make quite a bit of noise, which can create an unhealthy work or home environment. With central air conditioning, the unit is placed out of earshot.
3. Zone control. When purchasing a central air conditioner, be sure to look for one that offers "zone control" thermostats. By placing these controls throughout the building, you can regulate the temperature in different areas. This means less wasted energy and increased cost savings.

Hiring central air conditioning installers

Though it may seem like a cost saver to install your own central air conditioning unit, there are many reasons to hire a heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) specialist to perform the installation:

• Duct work. When using a central air conditioning unit, the chilled air is delivered through a series of metal ducts. If your home isn't equipped with the right duct work, an HVACR contractor will point out any potential problems during installation.
• Size matters. Choosing the wrong size air conditioning unit can become a major headache. Installers follow government mandates for central air conditioners.
• Product placement. Depending on the size and configuration of your building, placing a central air conditioner on the roof may be your best option. An HVACR contractor has the equipment and staff to do this type of heavy lifting safely and efficiently.
• Service after the sale. Working with a licensed and bonded central air conditioning installer means getting direct service after you buy. Since an air conditioner is subject to problems, a contractor can troubleshoot problems without additional charges during the warranty period.

A combination of central air conditioning and window units might be the best solution for cooling your home or office. Answer a few questions about the type of central air conditioner you’re looking for, and we’ll match you to the right installers.