As the summer continues to sizzle in North Carolina, we thought this might be a good time to talk about replacing your AC system. Because let’s be honest, we have a lot more summer to go – and your comfort is key, especially when most vacations are turning into “staycations” during these unsettling times. So your best bet is to keep your castle comfortable…and Carolina Comfort Air wants to help. Let’s review 10 questions to ask!
- Should I repair or replace?
- What size equipment is recommended for my home? What brand?
- What is the estimated cost to replace my system?
- Do you offer financing, rebates, or tax credits?
- How efficient will my new system be? What is the SEER Rating?
- What is the installation timeline?
- Is there any new technology that I should consider?
- What is the warranty coverage like?
- Is this HVAC contractor reputable? Licensed and insured? Highly recommended?
- Is this HVAC contractor taking precautions during the COVID-19 pandemic?
- Should I repair or replace my current HVAC system?
Great question! Understanding the tell-tale signs that your air conditioner has reached the end of its life and may soon need replacement is vital as a homeowner. Frequent repairs, a system 10+ years, increasing energy bills and more are indicators that it may be more economical in the long run to replace rather than repair. Check out the complete list of signs you need to replace your AC unit. The sooner you acknowledge these warning signs, the more time you have to budget and explore the best AC financing options for your family.
- What size equipment is recommended for my home? What brand?
To ensure your new AC system is the right fit for your home and comfort needs, Carolina Comfort Air performs a detailed load calculation to determine the capacity of the equipment needed, as well as the distribution of air for each room. During your free in-home consultation, our consultants will ask a series of questions to further understand current comfort issues. Do you have hot or cold spots in your home? High humidity?
At Carolina Comfort Air, we exclusively work with the best – and there’s nothing better than a Trane system. As Trane Comfort Specialists™, we are proud to carry America’s most reliable trusted HVAC brand. Tested, designed, and built to withstand the toughest conditions, Trane systems are truly top of the line. Trane AC systems are the best value, most efficient, and even have the quietest sound rating in the industry.
- What is the estimated cost to replace my system?
During your free in-home consultation, a Carolina Comfort Air consultant will complete a home calculation and evaluation of your needs. Based on those findings, we are able to recommend options to you as the homeowner to choose from ranging in cost and efficiency. Your installation estimate will include the cost for the new unit as well as the cost of labor and any needed parts, that way you are able to receive other quotes to compare. We always recommend that homeowners ask HVAC contractors about their installation process, as many do not have as detailed and comprehensive checklists as Carolina Comfort Air.
- Do you offer financing, rebates, or tax credits?
Most HVAC contractors offer AC financing options to help bridge the gap between equipment costs and your budget as a homeowner. At Carolina Comfort Air, we’re able to offer the very best AC replacement financing and rebate offers since we are a top 5 national Trane dealer.
With affordable monthly payments, a fast application process, online account management, and special term promotions, replacing your home’s air conditioning system will be less stressful. Our comfort consultants will review financing options with you during your free in-home consultation.
We also inform homeowners about additional cost savings through Duke Energy’s energy-efficient rebates for residential electric customers. Homeowners are eligible to save up to $450!
- How efficient will my new system be? What is the SEER Rating?
The efficiency of a cooling system is expressed as a SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating. The higher the SEER, the greater the efficiency. While all cooling systems today must have a minimum of a SEER 13 rating, Trane air conditioners range from 14.5 – 22 SEER. Systems with higher SEER ratings may be more costly, but save you money in the long run with increased efficiency.
- What is the installation timeline?
Replacing or installing a new air conditioner isn’t always a speedy process. Electrical work, plumbing, ductwork, as well as system calibration and testing can easily add up to more than a day’s work. At Carolina Comfort Air, we know homeowners are eager to have their new air conditioner installed, especially in the peak of summer heat. What we promise is to keep homeowners informed of the timeline as we work to complete the installation. We take pride in our transparency and always want to be forthcoming with accurate information and expectations.
- Is there any new technology that I should consider?
New technology is part of the process, design and build nowadays within Trane systems. Something you’ll want to think about is a programmable thermostat. With a programmable thermostat, you can program settings in advance so that you can control the temperature at different times of the day. You’ll save money on energy bills without sacrificing comfort. A comfort consultant will gladly walk you through how to use your programmable thermostat.
- What is the warranty coverage like?
People often overlook air conditioning warranties because they feel it is not necessary. Sometimes issues do arise with a mechanical system, but don’t worry, you’re covered by a 1-year labor warranty and a 10-year parts warranty. Here at Carolina Comfort Air, we strive to offer competitive prices on not only repairs and installations, but also on our extended warranty plans. Our Registered Limited Warranty Protection option adds up to 5 additional years to your original parts warranty coverage. We also offer a Limited Warranty Transfer Protection option that allows you to transfer a warranty within 90 days of a home purchase and continue coverage while the system is under 10 years of age.
- Is this HVAC contractor reputable? Licensed and insured? Highly recommended?
Carolina Comfort Air is a licensed and insured HVAC company with 13+ years of experience. Our team of air conditioning installers are Trane certified and have the knowledge to customize the best system for your home and family. We are a Top 5 National Trane Dealer, Google Guaranteed, Home Advisor top rated HVAC contractor, BBB Accredited Business, and have won numerous accolades and awards for our outstanding workmanship and customer service. We look forward to the opportunity to keep your home comfy!
- Is this HVAC contractor taking precautions during the COVID-19 pandemic?
A relevant question that we take seriously. We are constantly learning and updating our education on COVID-19. We are an essential service and the importance of maintaining the protection and well-being of our communities is essential, too. Owner and President Phillip Tyler explains:
“Our team wears protective gear such as gloves and face masks and shoe coverings when available if entering your home is necessary. Our certified contactless technicians maintain the CDC recommended 6-foot distance, refrain from shaking hands with customers, and sanitize their tools, trucks and iPads before and after every visit.
Our team members are following proper hand hygiene and are encouraged to stay home if they feel sick. If you or anyone in your household has experienced flu-like symptoms, we ask that you please reschedule your appointment for a later date in order to protect our team.
Our #1 goal is to keep our customers and staff safe. We ask that you please respect these initiatives as we make these necessary adjustments to our routine.”
Replacing your home’s air conditioning system doesn’t have to be overwhelming. As a homeowner, knowing what questions to ask AC contractors before replacing your unit is extremely important. Print out these questions and be sure to bring them up during your free in-home consultation with a Carolina Comfort Air consultant. We are eager to address your concerns and make the AC installation process as stress-free as possible!