Air Conditioning

Selecting A Palm Springs AC Contractor | 92262, 92263, 92264, 92292

When the California desert sun beats down in the summer, you need a quality air conditioner keeping you cool, while not sky rocketing your utility bills. Selecting the right Palm Springs air conditioning contractor is very imporant.

Where To Begin
Before you buy, start by reviewing multiple Palm Springs dealers, and look for an Palm Springs AC Contractor who is experienced with your specific needs and requirements. The size of a residential house, the amount of rooms, the windows and doors all dictate what type of system you need to install. Too small an air conditioner will not perform well and a unit too large actually will not be as efficient.

Cheaper Is Not Better
The cheapest equipment will not save you money. Period. Often the economical climate will force contractors to bid lower models to compete because most customers look only at the price tag on an estimate. However paying more for a quality unit and an experienced dealer will make all the difference.

2) Secondly, an air conditioner not properly installed will not operate at the efficiency level it was designed to. Too many homeowners have experienced a huge loss in savings because they used an HVAC dealer that didn't install their system correctly causing lost efficiency meaning higher bills. Don't make the same mistake.

1) First, air conditioners and heat pumps have efficiency ratings (SEER, HSPF) which dictate the amount of energy required to cool. Ask dealers what they would recommend and how much you can save on monthly utilities at different SEER ratings.

Ask Around
How long have they been in business? Can they supply you with references in the Palm Springs area? Again, you want someone experienced with a good reputation - not someone that is learning the ropes on your AC installation!

Industry Certifications
Industry certifications (such as NATE) allow homeowners to ascertain the level of quality they will get from an air conditioning contractor. Manufacturers also typically have their own certification levels to make a distinction between the elite and the rest. A dealer who doesn't have industry certs could still offer top quality solutions, but these certifications allow for a certain peace of mind when working with a new contractor.

Get Informed
If a Palm Springs air conditioning contractor asked you if you prefer an air conditioner or heat pump, would you know what to say? Read up on the different indoor comfort control components so you can make confident decisions.

The 10 Points To Remember | www.energystar.gov

1. Study up - Before you buy A/C services, find out about license and insurance requirements for contractors in California. And before you call a Palm Springs dealer, know the model of your current system and its maintenance history. Also make note of any uncomfortable rooms. This will help potential dealer better understand your cooling needs.

2. Ask for referrals - Ask friends, neighbors, and co-workers for referrals. You can also contact local trade organizations for names of members in your area.

3. Call references - Ask an HVAC dealer for customer references and call them. Ask about the dealer's installation or service performance, and if the job was completed on time and within budget.

4. Find special offers - An indoor comfort control system is one of the largest purchases you'll make as a homeowner. Keep your costs down by checking around for available rebates on energy-efficient ENERGY STAR qualified equipment. Begin your search at www.energystar.gov.

5. Look for ENERGY STAR - ENERGY STAR qualified products meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and offer significant long-term energy savings. Contractors should be able to show you calculations of savings for ENERGY STAR heating and cooling equipment.

6. Expect a home evaluation - The AC technician should spend significant time inspecting your current system and home to assess your needs. A bigger system isn't always better; they should also size the heating and cooling system based on the size of your house, level of insulation, and windows. A good technician will inspect your duct system (if applicable) for air leaks and insulation and measure airflow to make sure it meets manufacturers specifications.

7. Get written, itemized estimates - When comparing proposals (bids), be sure to compare cost, energy efficiency and warranties. A lowest price may not be the best deal if it's not the most efficient because your energy costs will be higher.

8. Get it in ink - Sign a written proposal before you buy A/C products or work gets started. It'll protect you by specifying project costs, model numbers, job schedule and warranty information.

9. Pass it on - Tell friends and family about ENERGY STAR. Almost one-quarter of households knowingly purchased at least one qualified product last year, and 71% of those consumers say they would recommend ENERGY STAR to a friend. Spread the word, and we can all make a big difference.

10. Get the ENERGY STAR Guide - For complete information on keeping your home comfortable year-round:

Energy Star Guide to Efficient Heating and Cooling


ENERGY STAR Guide to Energy Efficient Cooling and Heating

Energy Star Guide to Efficient Heating and Cooling


Guía para la Eficiencia de Energía en la Calefacción y el Aire Acondicionado


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