2024 Air Conditioner Buying Guide: How to Pick the Right Cooling Solution for Your Home

Looking for an air conditioner buying guide to help you choose the perfect AC? We’ve got your back. Our AC buying guide includes all the AC buying tips and information you need to pick the right air conditioner for your Edmonton home. 

When buying a new AC, air conditioner installation is just as important to consider as efficiency, size and brand. Guaranteeing your air conditioner is installed properly will ensure the unit runs efficiently and that you don’t face costly repairs down the road. To help you find the best AC installer in Edmonton, our air conditioner buying guide also includes tips for choosing an HVAC contractor.

Ready to jump into the best AC guide for Edmonton homeowners? Here’s what you need to know when buying a new air conditioner.

Essential AC Buying Tips for 2024

• Purchase an air conditioner with the highest SEER rating you can afford. This will boost energy efficiency and minimize your monthly cooling bill.
  
  
• Consider a central AC unit that offers smart home capabilities for added convenience, enhanced efficiency, and easier troubleshooting.
  
  
• Choose the right size air conditioner for your Edmonton home (see our sizing guide below).
  
  
• Select a top-rated AC brand like Ameristar or Trane.
  
  
• Before buying a new central AC, consider whether a portable air conditioner, ductless mini split AC, or heat pump is sufficient for your cooling needs.
  
  
• Do some research to find the best Edmonton AC installation contractor. This will guarantee you choose the right air conditioner for your home and that it is installed properly – the first time. 

How do I know if my air conditioner needs to be replaced?

Not sure if it’s time to buy a new AC? Our AC buying guide is here to help!

Here are 6 tell-tale signs that you need to replace your air conditioner.

1. Your AC is 10+ Years Old

The typical lifespan of a home air conditioner in Edmonton is around 10 to 15 years. If your AC is older than this, it may be time to purchase a new one.

Keep in mind – how long your AC lasts depends on several factors, including brand, model, maintenance, and usage. Thus, with proper care and regular maintenance, you can help prolong the life of your air conditioner.

2. Frequent Breakdowns and Repairs

Is your AC experiencing frequent breakdowns? If so, it could be time to replace your air conditioner. In many cases, buying a new AC is more cost-effective than making frequent repairs.

3. Increased Energy Bills

If you’ve noticed that your energy bill has increased even though you haven’t changed your cooling habits, it could mean your air conditioner is not running as efficiently as it once was. In this case, it’s time to consider buying a new AC.

4. Limited Airflow and a Lack of Cool Air

One of the most obvious signs that it’s time to buy a new air conditioner is a lack of cool air or limited airflow. If your air conditioner isn’t blowing cold air as strongly as it used to or not cooling your home evenly, it’s likely the unit is not working properly. Therefore, a new AC may be necessary. 

Be sure to call a professional Edmonton AC company before you purchase a new air conditioner. They will be able to tell you whether the issue can be repaired or if your AC needs to be replaced.

5. Strange Noises

If your AC is making unusual noises, such as grinding, squeaking, or rattling, it may be a sign that there are issues with its internal components. In this case, consult an AC professional as soon as possible to determine if you need to replace the unit.

6. Strange Smells

Like strange noises, strange smells can be an indication that your air conditioner needs to be replaced. Your AC should output clean, fresh air. So, if you smell something unusual (e.g. burning, smokey, musty smells, etc.), be sure to contact an HVAC expert right away!

Need help determining if your air conditioner needs to be replaced? The experts at ProSolutions Inc. can help you decide based on the age, condition and efficiency of your unit. If a new air conditioner is in the cards, we can even help you pick the perfect cooling system for your Edmonton home.

AC Buying Guide Basics – What to Look for When Buying an Air Conditioner in Edmonton

Wondering – how do I choose the right air conditioner for my Edmonton home? Have no fear; we’re here to walk you through it! Our air conditioner buying guide will cover the 3 most important factors to consider when buying a new AC.

1. Efficiency
2. Technology
3. Noise

Learn more about these factors below, including AC buying tips for each.

Efficiency (SEER Rating)

When purchasing a new AC unit, you must consider the system’s SEER rating. The unit’s SEER rating, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, will tell you how energy efficient it is. The more efficient, the better the unit will work and the less you’ll spend on utility bills.

How is SEER calculated?

SEER is calculated using the following formula.

SEER = # BTUs of heat removed / Amount of energy required to remove heat (in watt-hours)

The higher the SEER, the more efficient the AC unit is.

What is a good SEER rating for a new AC in Edmonton?

A good SEER rating for an AC in Edmonton is 14 to 16. That said, Alberta homeowners often experience hot summer weather. Therefore, a SEER rating of 16 or higher is recommended for optimal home comfort.

In Edmonton, you can find AC units with SEER ratings as high as 25.

Is it worth getting a higher SEER rating?

Purchasing an AC system with a higher SEER rating may be more expensive upfront. However, it will save you in energy costs in the long run. In addition to saving money, buying an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating can help you get energy efficiency government rebates, depending on where you live. Not to mention, you’ll reduce your carbon footprint. 

As a result, it is worth getting an AC with a higher SEER rating. In fact, the AC experts at ProSolutions Inc. recommended that you purchase an AC unit with the highest SEER you can afford. 

Learn more about SEER here – What does SEER stand for?

Unsure of what SEER rating you should be looking for? Our team of professional AC installers would be happy to help you determine the best AC unit for your home. Give us a call at 780-453-6640.

Technology (Smart Home Integration)

Do you have a smart home? If so, or if you’re considering integrating smart home capabilities, you may want to consider a central AC unit that offers smart options. For instance, many smart AC systems connect with a smart thermostat.

There are many benefits to having a smart AC unit, including:

• Convenience – with a smart air conditioner, you can control your home’s temperature from your mobile device.
• Energy efficiency – with the ability to monitor performance and adjust the temperature automatically, smart AC units can help optimize efficiency. As a result, you’ll use less energy and have lower utility bills.
• Troubleshooting – many smart ACs also have built-in troubleshooting capabilities. This can help you cut down on maintenance and air conditioning repair costs.

Noise (Decibel Rating)

Noise is another important factor to consider in an air conditioner buying guide.

Every AC unit will make some noise when it runs. However, how loud your AC is will depend on:

• The unit (e.g. brand, model)
• How old it is
• What type of AC it is
• Condition the AC is in
• Your furnace blowers (as they are responsible for blowing the cool air through your home’s ducts)

In most cases, older ACs will be significantly louder than new air conditioners, as innovative designs have helped to reduce noise.

When shopping for a new AC, take a look at its decibel (dB) rating. This rating will tell you how loud or quiet a system will be – the lower the decibel rating, the quieter the system will be.

When comparing the decibel ratings of different systems, keep these common noise levels in mind.

• Whisper – 30 dB
• Common noise levels in a home – 40 dB
• Typical conversation or background music – 60 dB
• Portable AC or a noisy restaurant – 80 to 89 dB

*Noise levels above 85 dB can be harmful to your ears.

You can expect a quiet AC system to range from 50 to 60 decibels. Most people prefer an HVAC system with a decibel rating that is below 60 dB, noise that is equivalent to background music.

How do I determine what size air conditioner I need?

Our air conditioner selection guide wouldn’t be complete without discussing AC buying tips related to unit size. That’s because the size of your AC is extremely important. Not only will the right size AC provide the most efficient cooling, but it will also guarantee maximum home comfort.

The right size air conditioner for your home depends on many factors, including:

1. Size of your home
2. Age of your home
3. Local climate
4. The number of appliances in your home

To help you get a rough idea of what size air conditioner you need, here is a sizing chart.

Please keep in mind that these are rough estimates only. As mentioned above, there are many other factors that determine what size air conditioner you need. For example, your home design, including whether you have south-facing windows, vaulted ceilings, etc., will play a role. In addition, the ductwork in your home and the original furnace size will also impact what size air conditioner you need. Therefore, it is best to have a licensed AC technician come to your home and complete a heat load calculation to ensure you buy the right size AC! 

Good AC installation contractors, like ProSolutions Inc., will help you determine what size air conditioner you need. To determine the tonnage, they will complete a load calculation that incorporates the factors above, as well as other considerations. So, when you’re shopping for a new AC, be sure to ask your AC installer to help you determine what size air conditioner you need.

Which brand is best for AC?

Any good 2024 AC buyers guide will tell you – not all AC brands are created equal. When buying a new air conditioner, you’ll want to look for a unit that is efficient, reliable, and affordable.

Some of the best and most reliable AC brands for Edmonton homeowners include:

• Ameristar – Ameristar is our top AC brand recommendation for Edmonton homes. That’s because Ameristar ACs offer exceptional quality at a reasonable price point. Built by American Standard Heating and Air Conditioning, Ameristar air conditioners are quiet, efficient and built to last. This popular AC brand is also backed by a manufacturer’s warranty for up to 10 years.

Discover our specific air conditioner recommendations for Edmonton homes in the Ameristar AC buying guide below.

• AirEase by Lennox – thanks to more than a decade of research and development, AirEase AC units are extremely reliable. As a result, they are one of our top-rated AC brands for Edmonton homeowners.
  
  
• RunTru by Trane – RunTru offers high-end cooling systems at a reasonable price. Thoroughly tested and dependable, these AC units are built to last. Therefore, the RunTru brand also comes highly recommended by our AC technicians.
  
  
• Trane – Trane is a trusted AC brand that offers high-quality and energy-efficient air conditioners. In fact, Trane offers some of the most efficient and quietest AC units on the market.
  
  
• Amana – like Trane, Amana is also a popular and well-known AC brand. Best of all, Amana air conditioners are durable and energy-efficient.
  
  
• Ducane – owned by Lennox, the Ducane brand offers good quality, reliable air conditioners. This AC brand is more cost-effective than high-end brands like Trane, with options for all budgets. Therefore, Ducane is recommended for Edmonton homeowners looking for a dependable but more affordable home cooling solution.
  
  
• Goodman – Goodman is one of the most well-known and largest AC brands on the market. These air conditioners are energy-efficient, durable, backed by a good warranty, and reasonably priced, given their quality.
  
  
• Comfort-Aire – Comfort-Aire is also a reliable AC brand with several options for different budgets. When installed by a professional AC installation team, Comfort-Aire ACs provide dependable, efficient cooling.
  
  
• Payne – Payne air conditioners use advanced technology to offer quiet, energy-efficient cooling. Built by Carrier, the Payne brand is also a more affordable option compared to high-end AC brands like Amana and Trane.

To learn more about these AC brands and which models our air conditioning experts recommend, check out our guide to the Best Air Conditioner Brands.

Best ACs for Edmonton – Our Top AC Buying Guide Recommendations for 2024

With so many brands and models available, it can be difficult to decide what’s right for your home. At ProSolutions Inc., we recommend the Ameristar AC brand. 

To help you choose an air conditioner, our AC technicians have developed an Ameristar AC buying guide. Their top recommendations for the best ACs for Edmonton homes are below.

Ameristar M4AC4

The Ameristar M4AC4 is a reliable AC unit that provides affordable and dependable cooling. Available in various sizes, this air conditioner offers the following features.

• 15 SEER (1.5 ton models – M4AC4018D1000A)
• Single-stage
• Built to withstand all weather conditions
• Compact design to fit smaller spaces

Due to its single-stage operation and lower SEER rating, the Ameristar M4AC4 is less efficient than other options. However, it is a great economical choice for Edmonton homeowners looking for dependable cooling on a lower budget.

The following Ameristar M4AC4 units are in stock at ProSolutions Inc.:

• 2.5 ton Ameristar M4AC4030D1000A

• 3.0 ton Ameristar M4AC4036D1000A

Ameristar M4AC6

The M4AC6 is one of Ameristar’s best ACs, offering optimal efficiency, dependability and durability. This top-rated air conditioner provides the following features.

• 16 SEER
• Single-stage
• Quiet operation (maximum 67 decibels)
• Built to withstand harsh weather conditions
• Compact design to fit smaller spaces

The Ameristar M4AC6 is a more costly unit than the M4AC4. However, it is more energy-efficient, resulting in lower cooling costs. As a result, it is the perfect option for Edmonton homeowners who want to invest in efficiency and save on energy costs month after month.

The following Ameristar M4AC6 units are in stock at ProSolutions Inc.:

• 1.5 ton Ameristar M4AC6018B1000A

Looking for an Ameristar AC with a different tonnage or SEER rating? No problem – we can help! Contact our staff today, and we’ll order it directly from the manufacturer.

Recommended Mini Split ACs for Edmonton Homes

Interested in a mini split (ductless) AC for your Edmonton home? Here are our top picks.

Trane Mini-Split ACs

Trane’s reputation for manufacturing reliable, efficient, high-quality HVAC units makes them our top choice for ductless mini split systems.

While Trane is the best option based on cost and dependability, the technicians at ProSolutions Inc. also recommend the following ductless AC brands.

• Ameristar
• Runtru
• Tosot

Important Note: To guarantee optimal efficiency and maximum home comfort, it is essential that a professional HVAC company completes your ductless AC install.

Types of Air Conditioners & Cooling Solutions – Central AC vs. Portable AC vs. Ductless Mini Split AC vs. Heat Pump

You might be wondering – is it worth buying a portable air conditioner, or should I invest in a central AC unit, ductless mini split or heat pump instead?

The truth is, it depends on your situation and your needs.

Here are a few AC buying tips to keep in mind when choosing between a central AC vs portable AC vs ductless mini split vs heat pump.

Portable AC

In some cases, a portable AC may be all you need – don’t let any air conditioner buying guide tell you otherwise.

To help you decide if a portable AC will work for your needs, here are some pros and cons to keep in mind.

Advantages of Portable Air Conditioners

There are several advantages to portable air conditioners. These include:

• Cost – this option is much less expensive than buying and installing a central AC unit.
• Portability – a portable AC can be moved from room to room. As a result, you can cool only the areas you are using.
• Availability – portable air conditioners are easy to find. Check out your local home improvement store and there will be lots of options to choose from.
• Ease of use – you can purchase a portable unit, get it home, and have it up and running in a matter of minutes. This is a much quicker and easier process than buying and installing a central AC system.

Disadvantages of Portable Air Conditioners

While there are many advantages to portable ACs, namely cost and convenience, there are also several disadvantages. These disadvantages are often what push people to purchase and install central air conditioning.

• Noise – portable units are often very loud. This can be especially disturbing if you have one in your bedroom that runs during the night.
• Size – portable ACs also take up a lot of space. Many require window installation and will therefore take up a fair bit of room in and around the window they’re connected to.
• Ability to cool – unfortunately, a portable AC will only cool one area of your home. If you want to cool a different room, you’ll have to move the unit.
• Inefficient – portable air conditioners are inefficient for several reasons. Most notable, however, is the fact that they draw air from within the room they’re stationed. As a result, they use energy to cool air that has already been cooled.

When to Buy a Portable AC

Still unsure of whether a portable AC is suitable for your home? Our AC buying guide is here to help! Here are some common circumstances in which a portable unit is likely your best option.

• You rent your home – in this case, central air conditioner installation may not be worth it.
• You have a small space –  if your home is small and you’ll only need a couple of portable AC units to cool it then this will be the most cost-effective option.

Central AC

Many people opt for installing central air conditioning in their homes. But, before you commit to buying and installing a central AC unit, finish reading our AC choosing guide.

Advantages of Central Air Conditioners

There are many advantages to central air conditioner installation. These include:

• Aesthetics – central AC units are typically installed in a location that is tucked away and out of sight. This makes for a much cleaner and tidier look in your home.
• Home comfort – a central AC will provide the best possible environment in your home. With professional air conditioner installation, your AC will be perfectly calibrated for the environment in Edmonton, resulting in a cool and comfortable interior.
• Quiet – new and efficient central AC units are very quiet. So quiet that you’ll barely know they’re there.
• Efficient – purchasing and installing a central AC is much more efficient than running several portable units.
• Effective – while a portable AC system can take up to an hour to cool a room, central AC systems can cool your whole home in a matter of minutes.
• Ability to cool the entire house – unlike a portable AC, which will only cool one room at a time, central AC will cool your whole home.
• Increase in the value of your home – another great aspect of central AC is that it adds value to your home. So, the money you spend purchasing and installing your new AC, you’ll see as a return when you sell your home.

Disadvantages of Central AC

As most air conditioner buying guides will note, the biggest drawback to central AC for many people is the initial cost. Buying a new AC can be expensive, especially for a new, high-efficiency model. On top of that, air conditioner installation is an added cost.

When to Install a Central Air Conditioner

Central AC units are best for people who own their own homes. If you own your home, plan to live in it for several years, and enjoy the added comfort and convenience that a central AC system provides, then central air conditioner installation is your best bet.

If you’ve decided to install a central AC in your home, keep in mind that you may need to apply for permits before the job can be done. For instance, any time an air conditioning unit is wired into the electrical system, you must apply for an electrical permit. As well, if the installation of a cooling unit requires a ducting design alteration, both an HVAC permit and an electrical permit are required. However, if the air conditioning unit is a portable, plug-in type, no electrical permit is required.

Zoning bylaws may also affect your options when it comes to installing a central AC. For instance, if you need an electrical or HVAC permit to install your new system but cannot get approved for the permit, you may not be able to install central AC in your home. 

These factors should be considered before you commit to purchasing and installing a central air conditioner.

Ductless Mini Split AC

The last type of air conditioner our 2024 AC buyers guide will look at is ductless mini splits. If you want to add AC to a single room or area in your home, mini split systems offer a convenient and efficient option.

To help you decide if a ductless AC is right for you, here are some advantages and disadvantages to consider.

Advantages of Ductless Mini Split Air Conditioners

Ductless air conditioners have several advantages, including the following.

• Size – a mini split air conditioner is much smaller than a central air conditioner and takes up less space than a portable AC.
  
  
• Fast Cooling – a ductless air conditioner can quickly cool a single room or area in your home.
  
  
• Integrated Technology – mini splits offer advanced technology and features like smart home compatibility, multiple cooling settings, fan timers, and more.
  
  
• Flexibility – ductless ACs can be added to specific rooms, allowing homeowners to cool only important areas and customize the temperature in each space.
  
  
• Maintenance Costs – servicing and repairing a mini split system is simpler than a central AC. Therefore, homeowners can save on maintenance costs – or even complete much of the maintenance themselves!

Disadvantages of Ductless ACs

Ductless ACs offer efficient, reliable cooling. However, as any AC buying guide will mention, mini split systems also have disadvantages.

Here are the most significant cons of ductless air conditioning:

• Installation Costs – installing a ductless mini split AC costs about as much as installing a central AC.
  
  
• Aesthetics  – the indoor evaporator unit of a mini split is mounted to a wall or ceiling. As a result, some homeowners prefer central AC, so the system’s components are less visible.
  
  
• Maintenance Needs – similar to a central AC, a mini split system requires regular maintenance. For instance, the filter in the interior unit needs to be cleaned every few weeks.
  
  
• Leaks – if your mini split system is not properly maintained leaks can occur. Since the indoor condenser is mounted on the wall inside your home, a leak can damage walls, flooring, decor, and other belongings.

When to Buy a Mini Split AC

Installing a ductless mini split AC is an excellent option for many homeowners in Edmonton. 

However, this type of air conditioner isn’t right for everyone – don’t let any AC choosing guide convince you otherwise.

That said, buying a mini split AC is an ideal option if you want to:

• Benefit from optimal efficiency.
• Lower your monthly energy bills.
• Cool an apartment or condo.
• Cool a home addition (e.g. suite, bonus room, sunroom, etc.).
• Set different temperatures in each room.
• Cool a room with temperature issues.
• Install air conditioning in a house with no ductwork.

Heat Pumps

A heat pump is another excellent cooling solution for Edmonton homes. This AC alternative will not only cool your home in the summer but also help heat it during the winter! Best of all, a heat pump is energy-efficient and affordable to run.

Below are some factors to consider before buying a heat pump vs air conditioner.

Advantages of Heat Pumps for Cooling

Heat pumps offer several advantages over air conditioners, including the following.

• Efficiency – heat pumps are an extremely energy-efficient cooling solution and use only electricity.
  
  
• Lower Operating Costs – since heat pumps are so efficient, they are much less costly to operate than other cooling solutions.
  
  
• Dual Use – a heat pump will also work with your furnace to help increase efficiency and decrease heating costs in the winter!
  
  
• Enhanced Home Comfort – heat pumps help remove humidity and improve indoor air quality.

Disadvantages of Heat Pumps as a Cooling Solution

The biggest drawback to buying and installing a heat pump is the high initial cost. Heat pumps are more costly to buy and install than other cooling options, like portable ACs. In fact, of all the air conditioning options discussed above, a heat pump is the most costly.

Want to know how much it will cost to install a heat pump in your Edmonton home? Give our team a call, and we’ll provide you with a free personalized quote!

When to Buy a Heat Pump vs Air Conditioner

Not sure whether a heat pump is right for your Edmonton home? A heat pump is ideal if you want to:

• Reduce your carbon footprint with the help of highly efficient appliances.
• Minimize cooling costs and need a whole-home cooling solution.
• Reduce your heating bill in the winter.

Our Simple Air Conditioner Selection Guide

At ProSolutions Inc., we want to make buying an AC as simple and stress-free as possible. To help you choose the best cooling solution, here’s a quick AC buying guide chart that compares the options above.

AC Type	Upfront & Installation Costs	Efficiency	Cooling Coverage	Best For
Portable	Lowest Cost	Poor	Single Room	Renters, small spaces (e.g., apartments)
Central	Average	Good (higher SEER rating = more efficient)	Whole home	Homeowners who plan to live in their home for several years
Ductless Mini Split	Average	Good	Single Room or Area	Small spaces (e.g., apartments, condos, home additions, etc.)
Heat Pumps	Highest Cost	Most Efficient	Whole home	Homeowners who want to maximize efficiency and minimize monthly cooling and heating expenses

AC Maintenance Requirements 

When buying a new air conditioner, you’ll want to read an air conditioner buying guide, check out online reviews, or confide in your local Edmonton AC specialists to ensure the brand and model you choose don’t have any common issues.

If you choose a reputable brand and your AC is professionally installed, you shouldn’t have any maintenance or repair requirements right off the bat. However, you should do some maintenance on your system each year. 

Regular maintenance will ensure your AC is in top working condition, extend the unit’s lifetime and help it to run at maximum efficiency. A yearly AC tune-up will inspect the following:

• Evaporator coils
• Refrigerant lines
• Condenser
• Compressor
• Blower motor
• Thermostat calibration
• Air ducts
• Filters

Before purchasing an AC unit, talk with a professional Edmonton AC installation company to determine what type of maintenance your air conditioner will require. The best Edmonton AC contractors will also offer maintenance plans to help you manage your regular maintenance and save on costs.

When it comes to maintenance and repairs, the most important thing you can do is to find a good AC installation team. Using a trusted local AC contractor will ensure that your system is properly installed and that you don’t run into costly repairs and maintenance down the road. When your central AC is installed correctly it will work better and have fewer problems.

How much does an air conditioner cost?

If you’ve made it to the end of our air conditioner buying guide and you’re ready to buy a new AC, you’re probably wondering – how much does an AC cost in Edmonton?

The cost to buy a new air conditioner depends on:

• AC brand
• Size
• Efficiency rating
• Condition of your home and ductwork
• AC install professional you hire 

That said, the cost to buy and install a new AC in an Edmonton home ranges from $3,400 to $10,000+.

Keep in mind that while it may cost more to hire a professional to install your new AC, proper installation is essential. Professional AC technicians will ensure your new air conditioner is properly installed and calibrated for the local conditions. They will also guarantee that your new system is safely installed. Thus, hiring a top-quality AC install contractor is critical.

How to Find the Best AC Install Contractor in Edmonton

When you’re looking for a reputable air conditioning contractor to install your new AC system, be sure to do some research. 

We’ll be the first to tell you that not all AC installers are created equal. Be sure to check out reviews online and get multiple quotes. This will help you pick the best contractor for the job!

Also, make sure to ask the right questions when getting an AC installation quote. A good AC installation contractor will be able to help you select the perfect AC unit for your home.

Above all, look for a contractor that is local, licensed and trusted by other businesses and homeowners. If you’re installing a new unit in your home and you need permits, you will be required by the city of Edmonton to hire an accredited business to do the job.

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