Expert Guide to Buying an Air Conditioning System

Do you want to know the average cost of a central air conditioning system for your home? Or are you thinking about getting a split system or other types of AC unit and want to ensure you get something worthy of your money? 

Air conditioners can help filter the air you breathe. Plus, they can make you cool down and feel comfortable, especially during summer. However, an AC unit can be costly, depending on what type you will purchase. So, you have to be wise when buying and know the best type for you. This blog will give you an expert guide on buying an appropriate air conditioner for your house, so keep reading.

Air Conditioner Vs. Heat Pump

If you are looking for units that will beat the heat and give you comfort, an air conditioner and heat pump will both give you cool air. While they have the same purpose, the energy, costs, and features are different. And so, you must now the factors that need to be considered before deciding to get one for your home or office.

In heat pumps, you can cool down and heat your room when you want to. While they have a dual function, they have a higher price than air conditioners. And this is understandable, given the fact that they serve more than one purpose. The service fee for the installation is also not that affordable although this depends on the installation service providers in your area. Having said all these, a heat pump is energy-efficient, allowing you to save on the costs of electricity so overall, it is still a smart investment.

On the other hand, air conditioners convert the heat into cool air through their systems. They don't heat up your environment, but they are definitely helpful in giving you a cool room temperature. This is what most people prefer in their homes especially during the summer days. Plus, they are more budget-friendly when you compare it to heat pumps. Ac units also last a lot longer than heat pumps simply because they only focus on one purpose. So if you are looking for an investment with a long lifespan and only to cool your room, then an air conditioner will be suitable for you.

When planning to buy an air conditioner, it is also best that you know what you are looking for. Are you more concerned of the quality of the unit, the price or the overall functionality? Know the different types of air conditioners and check each of their features. Before deciding on the average cost of a central air conditioning system for your home that you are willing to spend, having an idea of what types of air conditioners to buy should be your first step.

Types of Air Conditioners

There are different types of air conditioners to choose from, and they come with advantages and disadvantages. It would be great if you consider them first before getting an AC unit. Take a look at these common types of AC unit.

Window Type

A window-type air conditioner is best for small rooms and apartments. It takes out the heat from the area and brings it outside. However, its scope is not that wide, unlike other AC types. So, it's not suitable for wide houses. Its price is about $399, which is more affordable than split systems and central air conditioning units. If you are looking to cool down a room in your house, then this type should be your smart choice. 

Split System

A split-type air conditioning system has two main pieces of equipment. The first one has to be installed indoors, and the other one will be outside. It is attractive in the house, especially if you will purchase a modern one. It also has a longer lifespan since it is installed inside, and the other equipment outside is built to withstand weather conditions. In addition, a split-type has lower maintenance than the packaged units, and some models have a self-cleaning function. The price of a split-type unit is around $2500, depending on the model and features. If you are looking for the longevity of the product, choose a split type air conditioning system.

Central Air Conditioning System

If you have properly sized ductwork that is connected to different rooms, a central air conditioning system is suitable for you. Like other types of AC units, a central air conditioner can filter the air coming into your house and give you a cool feeling. It is advisable to be installed if you have a large indoor area as long as your ductwork is properly sized and in excellent condition. You can get one for about $4000 or more.

Things to Consider Purchasing an Air Conditioner

When buying an air conditioner, there are many things you need to consider, and not the price of the unit alone.

Installation fee

Even if you manage to get an affordable one, you would still need to provide more money if the installation is costly. For this reason, you also have to include the installation fee you'll have to pay for the professionals. Depending on what type you need, you have to choose the suitable one but be wise about the other things you have to pay for.

Efficiency and Lifespan

The money you'll spend won't end on getting an AC unit and having it installed. You have to check the efficiency of the unit you will buy to ensure you save money on electricity bills. Besides that, you should also check the lifespan and, as much as possible, make a purchase that will last long. This will give more value to your money in the long run.

What is Appropriate to Your House

Of course, you have to know what is the most appropriate one for your house. Otherwise, you won't get the maximum benefits of your air conditioning unit. So, if your home has a big space and ductwork, a central air conditioner will be a great option. But if you don't, it would be better to choose a split type or window type if you only have to use it in a small room. 

4 Innovative Yard Design Ideas for Unique Homeowners

We often only think about the interior of our homes when it comes to expressing our unique sense of style through hand-made furniture and beautifully woven rugs. While the unique possibilities of interior design see no end when we have the money set aside to make our visions come true, the exterior parts of our home, like the front and backyard, are left abandoned.

You shouldn't have to set aside too much for the extra cost of decorating your yard when you have these four ideas in mind. They'll tell that neighbor passing by that you really do care about your home and its upkeep. Look to these four ways of bettering your home's yard before even beginning to look at that vacant wall situated above your living room couch.

Recycling an Old Bed

I'm sure your first go-to when looking to furnish your yard is an outside lunch bench or table to make all of your backyard barbecues possible. While needing a little place to have an evening latte with your friends in the summer sun besides Starbucks is more than necessary, you're forgetting about other furniture pieces that could look great in your backyard. A flower bed was once thought of as something that was soil surrounded by a pretty frame like stones. Now a flower bed can be an old bed-frame that flowers sprout through. It can range from elegant to tacky, depending on how you take care of the bed.

Creating Your Own Stone Gravel Path

The only thing you really need to complete a stone gravel path, at its most amateur level, is a hoe to remove grass and some gravel from a well trusted supplier of it. A stone gravel supplier can give you the amount of rock necessary to weave a trail through your rose bed and vegetable garden. It'll allow you to not step on those little flower buds that will soon render mighty squash. You can create a unique trail in any type of shape. Want to create a trail that's heart shaped? It'll look lovely with a rose garden in the middle of it.

Fire Pits Are the Latest Fashion

Fire pits are the latest fashion as more people are desiring a fireplace that can be taken into the backyard for S’mores and something to add light to the darkness. Do you enjoy starting a fire near your campsite to cook your latest catch after fishing? You can install a fire pit into your backyard. They typically come in square or circular.

String Lights

String lights are an excellent way to add a unique style to your backyard as they come in many different shapes and colors. If you're looking to add a girly touch to a sweet 16 party, they have pink unicorn ones that serve the purpose of lighting up the cake's table and add a sweet, soft, pink hue to all of its surroundings.

Enhancing your yard isn't challenging with all the ideas that have been used to date. Understanding what you already have in your yard can help you match its decor with the latest ideas. Creating a yard with your own unique ideas can expand on the ones presented in this article.

Blinds Styles to Choose From for Your New Home Design

When planning your new home design, it is exciting to focus on the big decisions and leave the smaller ones for later. Windows play an important role in your home by controlling the amount of heat and sunlight that enter from outdoors. They also contribute to the decor of your home by adding visual appeal and coordinating with the rest of the house. Here are some window blind styles to consider as you think about window treatments and use.

Faux Wood Blinds

This style of window treatment adds elegance and class to any room or nook in your home. Built in a substantial design that is easy to manage, they come in various colors and textures to enhance windows of various sizes and shapes. The slats are easy to dust and readily wipe clean of fingerprint smudges.

Mini-Blinds

Cordless mini-blinds lend a subtle effect as a type of window covering. With simple styling and a delicate appearance, they fit any type of home decor and can either fit in with the background or become a focal point. You can buy them in different widths and colors to go with your home's design.

Room Darkening Blinds

If you love sleeping in a dark room without the interruption of bright moonlight or sunshine, you may want to install room darkening blinds in the bedrooms of your new house. They can be opened when desired but will keep out disruptive bright lights from outside your home.

Light Filtering blinds

You might be interested in window blinds that filter outdoor light to avoid a stark glare entering your home to interfere with computer monitors and television screens. The natural light will be diminished to brighten your home in soft rather than vibrant ways. They can be useful in any room of your new home to control the amount of outdoor light that comes through the windows.

Pleated Shades

Another style of possible interest is pleated shades that come in different colors. These work well with many kinds of home decorating and window designs. Like other blinds, they are cordless and can be easily raised or lowered by hand.

Vertical Blinds

Traditionally used for larger windows and patio doors, vertical blinds fit many window sizes and styles. Once installed, they are durable and easy to maintain. They require similar window blind installation as other styles of window treatments.

With many styles of window treatments to choose from, look for those that will complement your new home's design. You will love the way they add to the overall decorating scheme of your house.

4 of the Biggest Pros of Buying a New Luxury Home

Does the thought of living in a luxury home excite and motivate you? If you're like most people, the answer would be yes, and for a good reason. Living in a luxury home comes with lots of perks.

Not everyone can afford to live in a luxury home, but you should seize the opportunity if you can afford it. While living in a modest house is nice, living in a luxurious home offers a comfortable and modern lifestyle that can't be matched by living in an average house. If you're still on the fence about what type of home to buy, here are four of the biggest pros of buying a new luxury home:

High Resale Value

While the real estate market can be unpredictable, no house is immune to losing value. But luxury homes tend to hold their value because they're located in exclusive locations and neighborhoods. While it may take longer to sell a luxury home, you can see a better return on your investment if the house is in excellent condition.

Tons of Amenities

The best thing about buying a luxurious and expensive home is that it will include all sorts of fine amenities. Traditional homes are often very similar in design, layout, and style, but luxury homes are customized to cater to high-end living and specific interests. Some luxury home amenities can include large swimming pools, basketball courts, gourmet kitchens, theatre rooms, and indoor and outdoor hot tubs.

Excellent Quality of Life

Living in a large home in an exclusive neighborhood won't guarantee that your life will be perfect, but living in a luxury home will afford you excellent quality of life. Many luxury and high-end homes are located in communities near golf courses, private beaches, fine-dining restaurants, athletic courses, and tennis courts.

Lots of Privacy

Luxury homes are usually built and designed with the homeowner's privacy in mind. Large lots with high fences and private locations provide lots of privacy for luxury homeowners.

Luxury home living is ideal and perfect for many people, but it's not for everyone. If you're considering buying a luxury home, you should always use a professional real estate agent to help you find the right luxury home that suits your needs and desires. Luxury homes are costly, so you should get the location and amenities you're looking for.