Replacing your air conditioner is a major investment, especially in a climate like Southern California’s where cooling isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity. But too many homeowners rush the process and end up with systems that are inefficient, oversized, underpowered, or improperly installed. At Econo West Heating Air & Plumbing, we help customers throughout Lancaster, Palmdale, and the Antelope Valley make informed, confident decisions when it comes to new AC sales and installation.
Here are the five most common mistakes we see—and how to avoid them.
1. Choosing the Wrong Size Unit
Bigger is not always better. Many homeowners assume that a larger air conditioner will cool their home faster and better. In reality, an oversized unit may cool your space too quickly without removing enough humidity, leaving your home feeling cold and clammy. On the other hand, an undersized unit will run constantly trying to keep up, driving up energy bills and wearing out prematurely.
At Econo West Heating Air & Plumbing, we conduct a full load calculation to determine the right-sized unit based on your home’s square footage, insulation, ductwork, window placement, and more. This ensures optimal performance, comfort, and efficiency.
2. Ignoring the Rest of the HVAC System
Installing a high-efficiency air conditioner is a smart upgrade—but it won’t work as intended if your home has leaky ducts or poor insulation. Unfortunately, many people skip this crucial step and wonder why their new system doesn’t deliver the savings or comfort they expected.
Before we install any new AC system, Econo West Heating Air & Plumbing offers duct inspections, air balancing, sealing, and insulation upgrades to maximize the performance of your investment. A quality air conditioner needs an equally healthy duct system to deliver results.
3. Overlooking SEER Ratings and Long-Term Costs
It’s tempting to shop based solely on upfront price, but doing so can cost you more in the long run. Systems with higher SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings may cost more initially but can save you thousands in energy over their lifespan. Newer models from American Standard, for example, offer SEER ratings of up to 21 and can cut energy bills by up to 60% compared to older units.
At Econo West Heating Air & Plumbing, we help you compare options with transparency and accuracy so you can make an informed choice based on long-term value—not just initial expense.
4. Skipping Professional Installation
An air conditioner is only as good as the team that installs it. Improper installation can lead to poor airflow, inconsistent temperatures, and even voided warranties. Unfortunately, DIY attempts or cheap contractor deals often result in costly issues down the road.
Our technicians at Econo West Heating Air & Plumbing are highly trained, licensed, and experienced in new AC installations. We back our work with lifetime warranties and include a free one-year maintenance contract to ensure your system runs smoothly from day one.
5. Forgetting About Maintenance Plans
A new air conditioner doesn’t mean you can forget about upkeep. Regular maintenance is key to protecting your investment, keeping efficiency high, and spotting minor issues before they become major repairs.
Econo West Heating Air & Plumbing makes it easy by offering maintenance packages tailored to your system and usage. With priority service, seasonal tune-ups, and expert diagnostics, you’ll stay ahead of potential problems and extend the life of your new AC.
Make the Smart Choice for Long-Term Comfort
Avoiding these common mistakes can mean the difference between an AC system that drains your wallet and one that provides cool, efficient comfort for years to come. Whether you’re replacing an outdated unit or installing a brand new system, trust the experienced team at Econo West Heating Air & Plumbing to guide you through every step of the process.
Call (661) 760-7411 today to schedule your consultation and discover why homeowners across Antelope Valley rely on Econo West Heating Air & Plumbing for expert air conditioner sales, installation, and service.
