A/C replacement is often a necessity when existing equipment unexpectedly fails or needs a major repair. If you’re purchasing a new air conditioner under these circumstances, you may be tempted to simply pick the least expensive model just to minimize your inconvenience. Choosing cheaper equipment may save you money upfront, but it can also end up costing you a lot more over the long term.
Instead of making a hurried decision based on sticker price alone, you need to factor in all the costs you’ll pay over an air conditioner’s expected 10- to 15-year service life.
Weighing Initial and Lifetime Costs
The best way to make an informed air conditioner purchase is to discuss all the equipment options that fit within your budget with a qualified HVAC contractor. When comparing different models, you’ll notice that as the initial price or first-cost increases, the estimated lifetime costs decrease. This is due to several key factors.
- Energy efficiency – An air conditioner’s efficiency rating affects its energy consumption, which is one of the biggest factors of lifetime costs. Higher-priced units employ the latest technologies, such as improved coil designs, variable-speed motors and two-stage compressors. These features can provide significant energy savings over time, and you won’t find them on basic, inexpensive models.
- Durability and reliability – The higher cost of efficient equipment also indicates better quality construction and greater durability. Because they’re built to more rigorous quality standards, pricier air conditioners tend to need fewer repairs over their lifetime and are less likely to fail prematurely, which saves you money and inconvenience.
- Maintenance expenses – Since they’re more reliable and built better, high-end air conditioners also tend to have fewer maintenance issues than cheaper units. By choosing a higher-quality A/C, you’ll spend less on routine maintenance over the years.
Regardless of which air conditioner you ultimately choose, make sure it’s installed by an experienced professional as quality installation directly affects the unit’s performance, energy efficiency and longevity.
For expert advice to help you make the wisest A/C replacement decision for your Calgary home, contact the pros at Arpi’s Industries, Ltd.
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