• Q:There are so many contractors selling so many brand names, how do I know who to choose to install my new unit?
  
  
• A:Consumers MUST purchase from the contractor they trust the most. Installing heating and cooling systems properly requires significant expertise. The contractor who provides the best solution, proves that his staff is capable and has a track record of responding after the sale, is the one you should select to install your new system. Because the manufacturer transfers system responsibility to the dealer after it leaves the factory, your contractor is your only advocate and will be directly answerable for your satisfaction. In summary, choose the contractor in whom you believe and who is able to prove to you that he has the capabilities to cement a long term relationship with you, the customer.



• Q: Why do prices differ from contractor to contractor on the exact same unit?


• A:When consumers decide to buy toaster ovens, televisions and trash compactors, the process is typically to go out, check prices and buy the product with the best price. Price shopping makes the purchase easy . . . the price tells us who to buy from. But, when it comes to buying a heating and cooling system, price may get you into deep trouble. Many consumers ask: How can the price be different . . . all three contractors are quoting the same unit?? The answer is easy and difficult at the same time. Heating and cooling systems are not toaster ovens. They do not just come out of the box, plug in and operate. When a contractor estimates a system, the equipment itself is only 40% to 50% of the price. The balance is in design, labor, parts, materials, warranty, wiring, controls and other components. So, when the consumer is presented with the price, they must know that a significant portion of the total bill is for things other than equipment. It's a fact that, when there is a difference in price on heat pump systems, there is always a difference in the scope of the job. Consumers must take great care in educating themselves on the contractor and his sales representative, because bottom line, you are NOT buying a heating and cooling system, you are buying a contractor. Always buy from the contractor in whom you have the most confidence. Period. Be sure that your contractor gets to know you and takes the time to discover how you live, your comfort problems and your plans for your home. All of this information will help him or her in the process of designing the system that is just right for you.



• Q. What is this thing called SEER?


• A:SEER = Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. The seasonal energy efficiency rating (SEER) of your heat pump or air conditioning unit is to these pieces of equipment as miles per gallon (MPG) is to cars. It is a measure of the air conditioning performance of the system, where the higher rating is the better. The basic formula for SEER, or how this number is assigned, is BTU's of the air conditioning unit divided by the wattage needed to run the unit (BTU/WATT). The consumer must beware, however, because many companies are currently producing budget grade 12 and 14 SEER units that are not built to high quality standards. Be certain to always review the specifications and features of a unit with your sales rep- preventative to ensure that you are getting what you expect. Remember to ask questions about SEER, your air conditioning's miles per gallon.



• Q. Why should I invest in a 12 SEER or higher unit


• A: There are 12 reasons why you should purchase a heat pump carrying a 12 SEER rating or higher:

• 1.12 SEER or higher units are 20% to 50% more efficient than 10 SEER units, saving you energy dollars through every season of the year.
• 2.They are much quieter than 10 SEER units, which makes your home a more pleasant place to live.
• 3.They have a 5 to 10 year compressor warranty and up to five years full parts, labor, materials and freon warranty, which ensures that the costs to run this unit are low. (Ask your contractor for details)
• 4.They are built better and have a much nicer fit and finish.
• 5.12 SEER or higher units are fitted with much better controls and protective devices to protect the unit if a problem occurs (bad power, freon loss, etc.)
• 6.12 SEER or higher units have a new high tech scroll compressor which is extremely reliable and provides warmer feeling heat.
• 7.They have a 5 minute time-delay to keep heat from turning on and off during storms, or if someone is tampering with the thermostat.
• 8.They have commercial grade service valves to keep service costs down and equipment life high.
• 9.They have compressor sound and fan insulation systems that are attractive and significantly reduce the sound of the outdoor unit.
• 10.They have a much better blower than the standard system which enhances performance and comfort.
• 11.They have an expansion valve that adjusts the freon flow which allows the unit to provide a higher level of comfort and better humidity control.
• 12. 12 SEER or higher units have an accumulator which catches extra freon and helps protect the compressor.

When it's time to replace your central air conditioning system or your heat pump, you'll be happier with the end result if you get all the facts up front. For instance, did you know that your air conditioner or heat pump system consists of two parts, an outdoor unit and indoor unit . . . and that if these units are not properly matched, you could sacrifice comfort and risk the failure of your system? It's a little like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole. All central air conditioning systems and heat pumps consist of two parts; an indoor unit and an outdoor unit. These two parts are specifically designed to fit together as a team to provide top performance and maximum efficiency and comfort. Since both components are necessary for a working system, both parts of your existing system were originally installed at the same time. So, if you install a new outdoor unit without installing an equally efficient indoor unit to match, you won't have the right "fit". Replacing the outdoor unit without replacing the indoor unit may offer you the lowest price, but keep in mind it won't give you the best value. In fact, your system could be up to 15 percent less efficient than stated. That will hit home when you have to pay higher utility bills. With unmatched components, your system may still work, but the reduced efficiency will also mean you're less comfortable. Ultimately, components that aren't properly matched can create undue stress on your system, resulting in unnecessary premature failure. Installing a matched system makes sense when you consider the sacrifices and added costs of repairing or replacing an unmatched system. You'll get higher energy efficiency, greater reliability and more comfort. Now that's a bargain that "fits"!