3 Features that You Shouldn’t Fixate on When Buying a New HVAC Unit

If you think it might be time to buy a new HVAC system for your home, you’re in for an exciting opportunity. A new, updated HVAC unit can lower your energy costs, reduce your carbon footprint, and keep your family more comfortable than ever. However, some AC units will have features that look impressive – and are expensive – without actually benefiting you in the long run. Of course, every family is different; if one of the features we’ve listed below sounds important to you, that’s all that matters. That being said, if you’re looking to get the best long-term value without breaking the bank on superfluous features, we’ve got your back. To see the top 3 features that you shouldn’t prioritize in a new HVAC unit, keep on reading.

This one may sound surprising (and unlikely), but hear us out. Sometimes, low up-front costs lead to higher expenses for longer. Too often, units with too-good-to-be-true prices end up having high installation costs. They can also require more constant maintenance without supporting generic parts (meaning that you’ll have to buy same-brand parts for your unit, no matter the price jump).

We’re not saying that low up-front costs always mean you’ll end up paying more long-term. We are, however, absolutely saying that you should always ask your generator provider about installation fees, maintenance requirements, and generic part support for any unit you’re considering.

Don’t get us wrong: units with all of the bells and whistles are exciting, and those with touchscreen panels and sleek designs are no different. If you’d like to invest in a unit with all the finishes, there’s nothing wrong with choosing a tech-heavy option. That being said, there are countless units that work just as well as those with exciting external tech components. When it comes to AC units, it truly is what’s on the inside that matters. If a tech-heavy unit catches your eye, don’t forget to ask questions about what’s inside of it: inquire about its SEER rating, noise levels, and warranty in order to guarantee that your unit’s beauty isn’t only skin-deep,

Worth It?

Maybe, maybe not. If you’re a tech aficionado who wants to automate as much of their home as possible, this is a great feature for you to consider. That being said, if you tend to remember to change your thermostat, anyway, this feature may be superfluous.

One of the cool things (pun intended) about living in Florida is that central air conditioning is pretty much everywhere. This means that the portable units found everywhere up north are all but obsolete here. If a unit boasts portability as a perk, disregard: it’ll be useless in Florida, and transporting it will probably be more trouble than it’s worth. Instead, look for central units from reputable brands with high efficiency ratings.

By knowing the features that you shouldn’t prioritize in a new HVAC unit, you’ll be well-equipped to focus on the features that do matter. Finding a new air conditioner can be a process, but having cool, clean, and comfortable air for your family for years to come makes it all well worth it. To learn more about how to find the best unit, and to take a look at some of the best HVAC systems on the market, download our free eBook.