In need of a new central air conditioning unit at your home? If so, then you may be overwhelmed by the number of options available to you. As you shop around for a new AC, however, there are a few considerations to keep in mind that will help you narrow down your options:

Energy Efficiency

The more efficient your new AC unit is, the less you'll pay in monthly cooling costs. As you shop for a new air conditioning unit, then, be on the lookout for energy ratings. Specifically, check for each unit's SEER rating, which stands for "Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio." The higher the rating, the more efficient the unit and the more you'll save each month. Efficient units also tend to last longer, since they don't need to work as hard to cool your home.

Capacity

The capacity of your new AC unit is also important because not all ACs are rated to cool just any home. The capacity of your AC should be determined based on your home's square footage, layout, and current duct work in place. An HVAC professional should be able to determine the proper size and capacity unit for your home based on these factors, but if you plan on adding onto your home at any point in the near future, you'll need to take that into consideration as well.

Features/Accessories

You may also want to look for an AC unit that comes with certain features or accessories that will make your home more comfortable or your life more convenient. These days, many will come with the option to upgrade to a programmable or even a smart thermostat, which allows you to control your home's HVAC from the convenience of your smart phone or another device.

Anticipated Time at House

Finally, consider how much longer you plan on being in your house. If you're thinking about moving in the next year, then you may not want to drop $5,000 on a top-of-the-line AC unit (though it could be a selling feature). To save money, you might consider going with a less expensive unit. On the other hand, if you plan on being in the home for at least a few more years, a more expensive and efficient unit may be worth the cost in energy and maintenance savings over time.

With these considerations in mind, you'll eventually be able to choose the right AC unit for your needs! Contact an air conditioning installation company for more information and assistance.