Things to Consider When Buying a New Air Conditioning System

By: Ken Mecalf        February 11, 2013 Buying a new central air conditioning system can be an overwhelming experience, especially considering it is most people's third largest purchase they'll ever make behind their home and automobile.  Here are a few answers to question we get a lot. 1..Why should I hire a licensed contractor?

Installing a central air conditioning and heating system is a complex job that must be done in accordance with state codes, manufacturer guidelines and generally accepted standards.  Only licensed contractors are validated through state testing and on ongoing education requirements.  Licensed contractors also carry the necessary liability and workers compensation insurance to ensure you are not at risk if an accident were to occur during your installation.

2.

Why do I need to have a permit?

Not only are permits for HVAC installation projects the law, they are a protection for the consumer.  In order to pull a permit the contractor must prove that they are licensed and insured to do the work, they are installing appropriate equipment and the equipment is properly sized. Pulling a permit also makes sure the work is done to state code and regulations as it must be inspected by an agency official prior to closing the permit.  Unpermitted work can expose the homeowner to the risk of loss of homeowner’s insurance coverage and can cause issues with closing on the sale of the property in the future.

3.

What is the process for completing an installation?

At Air Command a typical replacement installation process consists of 5 steps as follows:  Estimate and Processing – One of our qualified service technicians will perform a thought site survey and evaluation and offer an estimate taking into account all items that will be sure the installation is in compliance with code and that the homeowner is receiving maximum value. Schedule and Job Setup – Once you decide you wish to move forward, our administrative staff will setup your job in our tracking system, schedule an installation time, apply for the appropriate permits and order your equipment and materials. Installation – Depending on the type of system being replaced the typical installation will take between 4 and 8 hours.  Our highly professional installation crews will remove and dispose of the old equipment and materials and install the new system to code specifications.  They will always work in a clean and professional fashion. System Startup and QA Inspection – To insure that no mistakes have been made and any follow-up items are addressed; our office will schedule a Quality Assurance Inspection prior to calling for a final permit inspection.  We will make sure everything is working up to specification and ready for the final inspection to close the permit.  We will also file any applicable rebates with the power company and/or manufacturer. Final Inspection – Our office will schedule a time with the homeowner and schedule the inspection with the appropriate municipality.  Unfortunately most municipalities will not schedule a specific time or window and the homeowner MUST be present at the inspection.  Once passed on the final the permit closed.

4.

What is covered in my warranty?

Most equipment warranties are 10-year parts and compressor and 1-year labor warranties but may require the homeowner to register with the manufacturer to get the full warranty.  Be sure to register within the manufacturer’s allotted time or you may only be eligible for 5-years of protection.  Typical warranties only cover labor and refrigerant for a maximum of one year.  The homeowner will be billed for these items on repairs required outside the labor warranty period.

5.

Why can’t I just buy one part of the system?

In the latest energy code revisions, the state of Florida has required that all equipment being installed must be a certified matched system by the Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) as a matched system to a specified SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating).  This means in most cases where systems are over 3-years old both pieces of a split system will have to be replaced in order to qualify to pull a permit for the job.

6.	How long should my system last?
	Typical residential HVAC systems last between 8-12 years.  The life of the system can be impacted by quality of installation, how the system is operated, location of residence and the maintenance of the system.  Like all mechanical systems, properly maintained systems will last longer with less issues.

7.

How much can I save on my energy bill?

You should be very careful of false claims regarding this topic.  In Florida, cooling and heating represent 40-50% of the typical household’s electric bill.  Therefore the maximum savings from the replacement of your HVAC system is limited to the amount the system represents in your total energy bill.  Thus if your energy bill is $100 per month and your HVAC represents 50% of that amount, a system saving you 50% on your heating and cooling costs will yield a total saving of 25% or $25 on your total bill ($100 X 50% X 50%). Also be wary the claims of systems beyond 15-16 SEER as the increased cost to get the additional SEER rating is often difficult to justify in cost savings.

8.

Why should I service my new system?

For most people the purchase of a new HVAC system is the 3rd largest purchase they’ll make in their lifetime only behind a home and car.  Like all mechanical systems, your HVAC system will last longer with fewer issues is properly maintained per the manufacturer’s specification.  Most manufacturers recommend inspection at least once a year and most often twice a year.  Many manufacturers require maintenance or risk voiding the warranty