Ahhh… the Internet! You can play, plan, learn, organize, buy, and so much more on the internet. For many the attraction is easy access to so many things and activities. And so, making purchases online is an obvious part of using the internet. However, what about this question: Can I buy my AC online? Well, it is summer, and everyone here in Beverly Hills, Culver City, Mar Vista, Miracle Mile, Hollywood, West Hollywood, Los Angeles, West Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Marina Del Rey, Pacific Palisades, Brentwood, Bel Air, Westwood, Downtown Los Angeles, Vernon, Huntington Park, Sherman Oaks, Encino and nearby wants to be sure they are cool and comfortable. But please read this blog from GAMA Air before making any decisions on this topic.
Everyone likes a great deal. And the internet seems to be full of them. If you search the internet for topics like “buy ac online”, you will find websites that sell air conditioners directly to the consumer, and others that recommend doing so. Unless you’re looking for a window AC, or a roll-around portable AC, let’s get some facts straight first. Many of those sites are not US based companies. And those that are based in the US are not simply selling a product, but rather a service. Why?
A central cooling and/or heating system requires installation by trained and licensed professionals. Even the most knowledgeable and eager Do-It-Yourselfer should not attempt to install an HVAC system. Beware of websites that claim they can sell you an air-conditioning unit directly to you as a consumer. This is a deceptive practice because they bypass the expertise of trained, professional contractors, and the legal requirements of most communities. There is no shortcut to a safe, quality, professional installation central air system. On the contrary, cutting corners to save a few bucks will end up costing you more in the long run.
Buyer Beware! Even if you are thinking about doing this on the sly, please consider the following major disadvantages to buying your AC directly online:
1. You can’t be sure you will buy the correct system for your needs. When a local professional HVAC contractor visits your home in person, he or she will evaluate your home’s structure and situation, review your family’s air quality requirements, and then submit a written proposal. This proposal will be based on your needs and wants, and explain options of equipment suitable to those needs and wants to meet your budget.
2. Your system will be illegal and not covered by warranty. A licensed contractor will ensure that an air conditioning system they install conforms to all local building codes, and also that it meets manufacturer specifications to perform at peak efficiency, operate safely, and to validate the warranty. Being illegally installed will also put the validity of your homeowner’s insurance at risk.
3. What size of system do you really need? Part of the training that a professional HVAC contractor receives helps them determine the optimal size of the AC system needed for your home. If you simply guess you can’t be sure it will be adequate. An AC that is too small won’t keep your home comfortable. But bigger is not better. If it is too big then it can’t maintain comfortable humidity levels, nor run efficiently. Oversized air conditioners cycle on and off too often which costs more on energy bills, and reduces the expected life of the system.
Only an in-home visit by a professional contractor that has been trained and licensed for central heating and air installations can ensure that you buy the right equipment that your home. Buying an HVAC system online may seem to be a good deal but it will not guarantee a safe and efficient system for a long time. We hope this information helps. And if you have additional questions or concerns just give GAMA Air a call at (310) 651-6936 or use our online form to schedule a visit for a no-obligation quote. We are standing by to help you make a good decision about your next heating and cooling system. We guarantee your satisfaction 100%!
Do you have other questions about your furnace, heat pump, or air conditioner? Visit our “Ask an Expert” page, fill out the form, and our resident expert will get back to you quickly.