Why SHOULDN'T You Worry About Your New AC Unit's Brand?
When it comes to buying expensive appliances or other items for the home, it's natural to focus on brand names. In many cases, brands can be synonymous with quality — or a lack thereof. Replacing your air conditioning system isn't cheap, so choosing a brand well-known for quality and reliability makes a lot of sense.
However, the situation with HVAC equipment can be a little more complex. Unlike your washing machine or kitchen range, the brands available for a new air conditioning unit are likely to be a little more local. Understanding why this is the case and how it can affect your new air conditioning system is important to make the best choice for your new replacement.
How Do Air Conditioning Brands Work?
It's easy to mistake your air conditioner's brand for its manufacturer. In reality, a handful of manufacturers each produce numerous individual brands. Some of these brands may only be available regionally, while others may represent higher and lower-quality units. Unfortunately, the differences can often be challenging to understand as a homeowner or individual purchaser.
To make matters even more confusing, some of these brands may be nearly identical, while others may use drastically different suppliers for vital components such as compressors. These differences might seem highly technical, but they can affect everything from the system's reliability to the availability of parts in your area.
Do Air Conditioning Brands Matter?
The simple answer is that most modern and well-regarded air conditioning manufacturers produce high-quality products that will last for many years. While the brand of your system can matter, it's typically better to focus on the features you want, the available warranty, and the quality of your installation. Using an experienced installer is often far more important than who manufactures your system.
Why Shouldn't YOU Worry About Your Air Conditioner's Brand?
Often, the biggest impact your air conditioner's brand will have is on the availability of parts. Certain brands are more common in different parts of the country, and contractors in your area will likely have those parts on hand. Additionally, contractors and technicians in your area will be more familiar with common brands, making service calls quicker and easier.
Ultimately, there's no need to stress too much about the brand of your system. Instead, consult with your installer and ask them for recommendations. A professional HVAC contractor will understand the differences between the common brands in your area, allowing them to recommend one that will meet your needs while allowing for quick and easy servicing and maintenance in the future.
For help selecting your AC replacement unit, contact an HVAC contractor in your area.