Allen Services in Fort Collins, CO
Are you planning to replace your air conditioner this summer? The day you install your AC unit is the most important day of its life, so you want to ensure it goes off without a hitch. Here’s what to keep in mind as air conditioning installation day approaches.
Hire a Licensed HVAC Contractor
AC installation is not a DIY job. Trusting the task to a licensed professional ensures reliable cooling performance, so you don’t have to worry about paying for repairs anytime soon. You also get your warranty off to a good start compared to a DIY installation, which could invalidate your warranty. Hiring a professional for the job is even a code requirement in many places.
When choosing an HVAC contractor to install your air conditioner, look for one with decades of experience, competitive prices, and top-notch customer service. Warranty coverage and a 100% satisfaction guarantee also give you peace of mind as you move forward with the company you’ve chosen.
Compare SEER Ratings for Maximum Energy Savings
If your current air conditioner is old enough to replace it, you can expect a new unit to lower your energy bills, no matter its efficiency rating. However, if you want to maximize your energy savings for several summers to come, be sure to consider the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER).
The minimum SEER allowed for northern states, including Colorado, is SEER 13. Still, high-performance units boast a rating of SEER 20 or higher. More efficient systems have a higher upfront price, but you must consider the lifetime savings.
For instance, choosing a high-end SEER 21 unit over a standard SEER 13 unit can save you 38 percent on your cooling bills, a 10-year savings of nearly $1,000. This makes it easy to see how investing in energy-efficient technology pays for itself!
Take the Time to Size Your AC Unit
When it comes to home comfort and efficiency, sizing your unit is just as crucial as choosing a high SEER rating. If the unit is undersized, it will struggle to keep up on the hottest, 100-degree days. But an oversized unit can’t dehumidify as effectively and experiences greater wear and tear because of its shorter cycles.
Fortunately, HVAC contractors have the tools and know-how to size your air conditioner properly. It’s important to consider more than just your home’s square footage. After all, other factors such as window layout, home orientation, air filtration rates, climate, and occupancy also affect your ideal AC unit size.
Consider Replacing the Thermostat
When installing a new air conditioner, you don’t necessarily have to replace the thermostat, but you should consider an upgrade if you still have an old analog or manual version. Modern programmable thermostats allow for pre-programmed settings based on your schedule, so you can set it and forget it.
Wi-Fi thermostats are even more advanced, with the option to monitor and control the temperature from anywhere using your smartphone. You can check energy usage reports, receive automatic reminders to change the filter, and get tips to maximize your savings.
Think about Air Quality
Indoor air quality is a concern for many Colorado families. So if you’re upgrading your air conditioner, you may also want to improve your air purification system. Two popular options include upgrading to a high-efficiency filter and installing a UV germicidal light in the ductwork. These solutions benefit everyone, but people with asthma and allergies tend to notice the biggest difference. Your HVAC contractor can help you explore your air quality options and decide what’s best for your family.
Get Creative With Central Air
If you’re tired of window AC units, but your older home doesn’t have ductwork, you may think you’re out of luck. Think again! With a ductless mini-split, it’s possible to have central air conditioning without the cost and hassle of installing ductwork.
Ductless mini-splits work similarly to heat pumps—that is, they move heat using electricity. This means they offer air conditioning in the summer and energy-efficient heating in the winter. Multiple wall-mounted air handlers connect to a single outdoor unit, which resembles an AC condensing unit. With one air handler installed in each room, you can enjoy central, zoned heating and cooling for optimal year-round comfort.
Know What to Expect on Installation Day
Every air conditioning install has slightly different requirements based on the cooling system you choose and whether you need to install ductwork. When you ask for a price estimate, your contractor should also tell you how long they expect the job to take so you can plan accordingly.
Assuming you opt for a standard central air conditioner, here’s what to expect on AC installation day:
- Remove the old HVAC equipment, if necessary.
- Carefully and accurately install the central air conditioner. If the furnace is also being replaced, the installation occurs simultaneously.
- Conduct a quality check to make sure the unit performs as intended.
- Clean up the installation site, leaving it cleaner than before.
- Follow up with the customer a few days later to ensure complete satisfaction.
Schedule AC Installation in Fort Collins
With nearly 60 years of experience, Allen Service is well-equipped to help you select and install a new air conditioner in your Fort Collins home. We know the ins and outs of AC unit installation and can show you how to enjoy your new system to the fullest once it’s all set up. To learn more about our cooling services, or to request an air conditioning installation estimate, please call us at 970-672-1660 or contact us online today.