If you’re looking to buy a new air conditioner, you’re likely wondering what questions you should be asking. After all, it can be an overwhelming experience, especially if this is your first time shopping for an air conditioning (AC) unit. To make the process easier, we’ve compiled a list of essential questions that will help you narrow down your choices and find the perfect AC unit for your needs.

What type of air conditioner do I need?

There are different types of air conditioning technologies available on the market today, such as central AC, split systems, window units, and portable units. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages based on needs and budget constraints. Central AC systems are great for larger homes as they deliver cooled air through ducts throughout the house, whereas split systems can provide cooling in spaces or rooms that don’t have ductwork.

What size system do I need?

The size of the AC unit is important because it affects both how much energy it uses and how well it cools a space. A too-small unit will work inefficiently and cost more in energy bills. A too-large unit may short cycle, meaning it turns itself off before properly cooling the room or home. Be sure to measure the area that needs cooling and ask an expert about sizing before making any decisions.

How efficient is it?

Energy efficiency is one of the most important factors when selecting an AC system. An efficient model will use less energy than other models, which can lead to significant savings on your electricity bill over time. When shopping for an air conditioner, look for Star Rating numbers—the higher the number, the more efficient the model is likely to be.

What special features do I need?

Some air conditioners come with extra features such as adjustable fan speeds or wifi to connect to smart home systems like Google Home or Amazon's Alexa, so it pays to shop around a bit before settling on a model. Depending on how much control you want over your cooling system, these might be important factors in helping you make a decision. It's always helpful to ask an experienced HVAC technician what they recommend in terms of added features and convenience technologies that may suit your lifestyle.

Buying a new air conditioner is no small task. It requires research and thoughtfulness if you want to get one that fits your needs and budget perfectly. Asking yourself these four key questions: what's my budget?, what size do I need?, how efficient is it, and what features do I need? Will help ensure that you make an informed decision when purchasing an air conditioner for your home or business.