Operating an inefficient cooling system can be imposing not only on your living conditions during extreme heat, but also on your wallet. So when you are a homeowner that has an older air conditioning system or one that's failing, you need to know how to select a new AC for your home.

When You Need A New Unit

When your current AC isn't cooling your home adequately, is running excessively to meet your home's cooling demands, or is constantly in need of repair, it may be time to get a new unit. But with all of the options on the market for air conditioning, such as those offered by Home Smart Colorado, there are things to consider before you buy.

Factors To Consider

• Ratings: SEER and energy star ratings can make a huge impact on the cost of running your AC. A SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating relates BTU, or the British Thermal Unit of output to energy input. Ratings go up to 27, so higher ratings will indicate a more efficient system that operates continuously during the warm season. Energy star ratings are determined by EPA guidelines, so when you rely on a system that runs with energy star ratings, you contribute to responsible power consumption and reduced emissions.
• Capacity: Capacity is measured in tons, with one ton relating to removal of 12,000 BTUs from your home. When calculating capacity based solely on square footage, you should factor needing about 12,000 BTU for every 500 square feet of space.
• Climate: Your climate will affect the selection you make for a new AC. If you use your AC throughout the year, you want to invest in an AC that slightly exceeds your capacity requirements.
• Usage: Whether you use it every day or if you rarely use your air conditioner, investing in something that is high quality will help to ensure that it's working when you need it. Better rated and higher capacity systems will contribute to less wear-and-tear during operation than more affordable options. Though systems that meet your basic cooling needs are sufficient to keep temperatures down, they are not always suitable for you if you increase your demands.

When you finally feel that you are in need of a new AC unit, you should use these factors to determine where to start. Buying to replace an AC requires that you don't just purchase by price, but consider factors that contribute to economical usage over time.