When the heat of summer hits Texas and Oklahoma, a reliable air conditioning system becomes essential for comfort. Whether you are upgrading an old unit or installing a new one in your home or business, choosing the right air conditioning system is a big decision. With many models and features available, how do you know which one is best for your needs?
At Advanced Cooling, we’ve been providing expert heating and cooling solutions since 2001, helping countless homeowners and businesses find the perfect air conditioning system. In this article, we will break down the top five features to consider when selecting a new air conditioning system to ensure you get the best value and performance for your investment.
Energy Efficiency (SEER Rating)
One of the most important features to consider when purchasing a new air conditioning system is its energy efficiency. The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating measures the cooling efficiency of an air conditioner. A higher SEER rating indicates a more energy-efficient system, which can save you money on your utility bills over time.
For homeowners in Texas and Oklahoma, where summer temperatures can soar, investing in an air conditioner with a high SEER rating can lead to significant savings. Modern air conditioning systems typically have SEER ratings between 13 and 25, with higher ratings providing better energy efficiency.
What to Look For:
- A minimum SEER rating of 14-16 is considered good, but for optimal efficiency, look for a model with a SEER rating of 18 or higher.
- The higher the SEER rating, the more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly the system will be.
Smart Thermostat Compatibility
Many new air conditioning systems are compatible with smart thermostats, which can help you optimize your home’s cooling needs while reducing energy waste. A smart thermostat allows you to control the temperature remotely via a smartphone or tablet, adjust settings based on your daily schedule, and monitor energy usage.
This feature is particularly valuable for busy homeowners or businesses who may not be around to manually adjust the thermostat throughout the day. A smart thermostat can also learn your preferences over time and automatically adjust the temperature for maximum comfort and efficiency.
What to Look For:
- Ensure that the air conditioner is compatible with popular smart thermostats, such as Google Nest, Ecobee, or Honeywell.
- Look for a thermostat that allows for zoning, so you can adjust temperatures in different areas of your home or business.
Quiet Operation
Noise can be a significant factor when selecting a new air conditioning system. Whether you’re installing an AC in your home, office, or business, you don’t want a loud system that disrupts your daily activities. Fortunately, modern air conditioning systems have become much quieter than older models, with advanced sound-dampening technology that keeps noise levels to a minimum.
Look for air conditioners designed with quiet operation in mind. These units feature innovative technology that reduces vibration and noise while the system is running, ensuring that the environment remains peaceful.
What to Look For:
- Look for units with a decibel rating (dB) of 50-60 dB, which is about the level of normal conversation. Anything above 70 dB can be noisy.
- Check for features like variable-speed compressors or noise-reducing insulation to minimize sound levels.
Zoning Capabilities
Zoning is a feature that allows you to divide your home or building into different cooling zones, so you can control the temperature in individual rooms or areas. This is particularly useful for larger homes, offices, or businesses, where different spaces may have different cooling needs. For instance, you may want the living room to be cooler than the bedroom, or cool the offices during business hours while leaving other areas less cool.
A zoned air conditioning system uses dampers or separate units to regulate airflow to different zones. With this feature, you can save energy by only cooling the rooms that are in use, reducing the strain on the system and lowering utility costs.
What to Look For:
- Look for systems with variable-speed compressors and multi-zone thermostats that allow you to set different temperatures in each zone.
- Some modern ductless mini-split systems are ideal for zoning because they provide independent control over individual rooms or zones.
Durability and Warranty
Air conditioning systems are a significant investment, and you want to ensure that your system lasts for many years. The durability of an air conditioning unit depends on the quality of its components, including the compressor, evaporator coils, and condenser. Choose a system built with durable, high-quality materials and look for brands with a solid reputation for reliability.
In addition to durability, a strong warranty is essential to protect your investment. A good warranty provides peace of mind by covering repairs or replacement in case the system fails due to manufacturing defects or premature wear.
What to Look For:
- Look for units with warranties of 10 years or more on parts, particularly on the compressor, which is the most expensive component to replace.
- Choose air conditioners from reputable brands with a history of quality and customer satisfaction, such as Carrier, Trane, or Lennox.
Conclusion: Choosing the Best Air Conditioning System
When selecting a new air conditioning system for your home or business, the right features can make all the difference in terms of comfort, efficiency, and cost savings. Focus on these five key features to ensure you’re getting the best system for your needs:
- Energy efficiency (high SEER rating) to save on utility costs.
- Smart thermostat compatibility for ease of control and scheduling.
- Quiet operation for a more peaceful environment.
- Zoning capabilities to customize cooling for different areas.
- Durability and warranty to ensure a long-lasting and reliable system.
At Advanced Cooling, we are committed to helping homeowners and businesses in Texas and Oklahoma make informed decisions about their heating and cooling systems. Whether you’re replacing an outdated unit, installing a new system, or need expert advice on air conditioning installation, our experienced team is here to help.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your options for installing a new, energy-efficient air conditioning system that will keep you comfortable all year long!
Advanced Cooling is the premier choice for HVAC services in Texas and Oklahoma. With a team of highly trained and certified technicians, we have the expertise to handle all of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning needs. Our commitment to customer satisfaction is unmatched, and we always go above and beyond to ensure that your experience with us is positive. We use only the highest quality parts and equipment to ensure that your HVAC system is running at peak performance. Plus, we offer competitive pricing and flexible scheduling to fit your needs. Choose Advanced Cooling for all of your HVAC needs in Texas and Oklahoma.
