After spending several summers by the fan to escape the heatwave, you’ve finally decided to equip your home with air conditioning.

But be careful! Such a purchase needs to be planned and prepared, so as to benefit both you and your home. Here’s some expert advice to help you plan your purchase.

• Know the surface area to be air-conditioned: A heat pump’s capacity is measured in BTU/h (British Thermal Unit per hour), i.e. its ability to cool a given space. If you know the surface area to be air-conditioned, it’s easier for you to choose the right air conditioner model for your home.

• Don’t be tempted by window or portable air conditioners: Although they can be a temporary solution, window or portable air conditioners are not a good option for cooling your home. They’re noisy, bulky and consume a lot of energy.

• Explore the types of heat pumps on the market: Although there are dozens of brands on the market, there are only a few types: the wall-mounted heat pump (ideal for bungalows and apartments), the central heat pump (perfect for homes with central ventilation and/or heating) and the multi-zone heat pump (recommended for multi-storey homes).

• Start shopping for your air conditioner as soon as winter ends: If you want to benefit from the advantages of an air conditioner as soon as summer begins, start your search as soon as winter ends. This will make it easier for you to get an appointment with a Tran Climatisation technician. You’ll be able to install in the spring, and won’t be caught short by summer high-demand time.

• Watch out for subsidies: In Quebec, the average price of a wall-mounted heat pump (including installation and appliance) is between $2,000 and $6,000. However, you can benefit from a number of subsidies, such as the Thermopompes Efficaces subsidy offered by Hydro-Québec. Don’t hesitate to ask your Tran Climatisation consultant for more information.

• Don’t be afraid to ask for several quotes: With such a large purchase, ask for several quotes. That way, you’ll find the company that offers you the best price, the best service, and a warranty on parts and labor. That way, you’ll be able to make an informed choice.

Any questions?

If you’d like to know more about the process of buying your heat pump or air conditioner, our prices or our other services, don’t hesitate to contact us. The Tran Climatisation team can be found anywhere on Montreal’s South Shore, in Laval and in the greater Montreal area.