A new air conditioner installed in a home today will be on the job for an average of 15 years. That’s just one good reason to make sure you select the right unit. The advanced technology provided by a quality A/C ought to provide noticeable improvements in both cooling performance and energy efficiency from day one. If you don’t make an informed choice, however, you could be living with disappointing results instead for many years.
Here are some common mistakes to avoid before you make that critical buying decision.
Getting size wrong
We’re not talking feet and inches. “Sizing” in this context refers to the air conditioner’s BTU capacity — the amount of heat it can extract from your house to maintain comfortable coolness. Over-sized and under-sized units are a deal-breaker when it comes to both performance and efficiency. A professional cooling load calculation gathers data about the thermal characteristics of your specific home and crunches those numbers into a precise capacity figure expressed in BTUs. Then, you’re armed with the right information to make the best choice.
Going for that low, low price
A little-known brand with a cut-rate price may be no bargain. A low sticker price saves you money once. However, the reduced efficiency and higher operating costs, as well as substandard components with shorter service life, may cost you more for years and years. Consider recognized industry brands sold by reputable local HVAC firms for the lowest cost over the long run.
Saving with a discount installation
Installing central air technology is an exacting procedure, critical to the improved performance and efficiency you expect. Trained installers employed by recognized HVAC dealers and certified by major manufacturers are qualified for the job. General contractors, carpenters and other non-specialists generally aren’t. A less-than-professional installation that doesn’t meet manufacturer’s specs can leave you stuck with an under-performing new air conditioner—as well as reliability problems and even potential warranty issues—for as long as you operate the unit.
On the job in Terre Haute since 1922, the professionals at Paitson Bros. are ready with more advice about selecting a new air conditioner.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Terre Haute, Indiana about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about buying an air conditioner and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Guide or call us at 812-645-6859.
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Jeff Paitson is a third generation business owner who continues to run the business with the same values that have been passed down from previous generations since 1922.
Jeff’s belief is that the business belongs to Jesus Christ; therefore 10 percent of the company’s profits go toward the Maryland Community Church.
Jeff is a Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce member and in his spare time, he enjoys 
Ethan Rayburn is a lifelong resident of Terre Haute and a 2005 graduate of Purdue University.
An Eagle Scout, Ethan spent four years as a non-profit executive with the Boy Scouts of America before joining Paitson Bros. as a comfort advisor and later General Manager. In that role, Ethan has brought a renewed enthusiasm for customer care, integrity, value, and service to Paitson Bros. Heating & Air Conditioning.
Ethan enjoys singing and was a member of the Purdue Varsity Glee Club. He also enjoys playing and coaching soccer, spending time with his family and two young boys, and volunteering his time and resources with his church, Terre Haute First Baptist Church, which he has attended from a very young age.
Paitson Bros
1 (812) 232-2347
Serving the Wabash Valley, IN Area Since 1922