Things to Consider Before Buying an Air Conditioner

Introduction

Things to Consider Before Buying an Air Conditioner are important for every homeowner to understand. Buying an air conditioner is a significant decision, and with so many models, efficiency levels, styles, and features available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Whether you’re replacing an older system or exploring cooling options for the first time, understanding what to look for can help you choose a unit that keeps your home comfortable while managing energy costs.

This guide breaks down 11 essential things to consider before buying an air conditioner, with practical insights for Canadian households—especially those in Ontario—where summers can range from mild to hot and humid.

1. What region of Canada do you live in?

Your location plays a major role in determining the type of air conditioner that will best meet your needs. Canada’s climate varies significantly, from short, mild summers in some provinces to long, humid seasons in others.

If you live in an area where warm weather only lasts a few weeks, a simple cooling solution like a window unit or ductless mini-split may be enough to keep your main living areas comfortable.

In regions such as Southern Ontario, where warm temperatures stretch across several months, homeowners may prefer a central air conditioner connected to the home’s furnace or air handler. In these areas, it can also be beneficial to choose a two-stage or variable-speed system, which can adjust cooling output based on how much cooling is needed.

These flexible systems help maintain comfort during fluctuating temperatures, improve humidity control, and can reduce your monthly hydro bill by running more efficiently.

2. How much space do you need to cool?

One of the most important steps in choosing an air conditioner is determining how much space it needs to cool. Different system types are better suited to different home layouts:

• Window and portable air conditioners
  Ideal for single rooms, apartments, or small spaces with modest cooling needs.
  
• Ductless mini-splits
  A great solution for homes without ductwork. You can choose a single-zone unit for one area or install multiple indoor heads to cool several rooms.
  
• Central air conditioning
  Best for homes with existing ductwork where you want even cooling throughout the entire house.
  

Regardless of the type of air conditioner, proper sizing is critical. A unit that’s too small will struggle to cool your home and run constantly, while an oversized unit will cycle on and off too frequently, causing uneven cooling and poor dehumidification.

A licensed HVAC professional can calculate the right size based on square footage, insulation, sun exposure, ceiling height, and your home’s layout. Using an AC size calculator can also give you a general estimate.

3. How energy efficient is your home?

The condition of your home plays a major role in how effectively your air conditioner operates. A newer, well-insulated home naturally requires less energy to cool than an older house with drafts, aging insulation, or poor air sealing.

If cooled air is constantly escaping outside, your air conditioner will need to work harder and run longer to maintain a comfortable temperature—raising your energy bills.

Before buying a new AC, consider:

• Are your windows properly sealed?
  
• Is your attic insulated adequately?
  
• Do you have noticeable drafts or hot spots?
  
• Are you planning any energy-efficiency upgrades soon?
  

Improving your home’s insulation and reducing air leaks can significantly cut your cooling costs. It’s also worth checking whether your province offers rebates for high-efficiency air conditioners or home energy upgrades, as incentives can help reduce upfront costs.

4. Do you plan to stay in your home long-term?

Buying an air conditioner is not just a comfort upgrade—it’s an investment. Your long-term plans can help determine whether you should choose a basic, mid-range, or high-efficiency model.

If you expect to stay in your home for many years, choosing a more efficient, feature-rich system may offer better value over time. The energy savings can offset the higher initial cost, and the added comfort features may be worth it.

If you’re planning to move in the near future, a reliable mid-efficiency unit with a good SEER rating may make more financial sense. You’ll still benefit from improved comfort without paying for features you may not use long enough to justify.

In some cases, stepping up to a higher-tier model can even be cost-effective once utility rebates are applied.

5. How do you choose the right installer?

Even the most advanced air conditioner won’t perform at its best without proper installation. A quality installation is just as important—if not more important—than the brand or model you choose.

A professional HVAC installer ensures:

• The unit is correctly sized
  
• Refrigerant is charged properly
  
• Airflow is balanced
  
• The system is calibrated for peak efficiency
  
• Your warranty remains valid
  
• The equipment operates safely
  

Poor installation can lead to reduced performance, higher energy bills, premature breakdowns, and costly repairs. Look for licensed, experienced, and well-reviewed contractors, and ask whether they offer warranties on their installation work in addition to the manufacturer’s equipment warranty.

6. What type of air conditioner should you choose?

Air conditioners generally fall into three categories based on how they operate: single-stage, two-stage, and variable-speed systems. Each type impacts comfort, efficiency, and cost.

Single-stage

• Has only one cooling output: full power.
  
• Turns on and off frequently.
  
• More affordable upfront but less efficient and noisier.

Two-stage

• Runs at low power most of the time and high power during hotter periods.
  
• Provides more consistent temperatures and better humidity control.
  
• Quieter and more energy-efficient than single-stage systems.

Variable-speed

• Adjusts cooling output in very small increments.
  
• Runs longer at lower speeds, providing exceptional comfort.
  
• Extremely efficient and quiet—but usually the most expensive option.
  

Your climate, comfort needs, and budget will help determine which type is the best fit.

7. Sustainability and environmental considerations

Many Canadian homeowners now consider environmental impact when investing in home systems, and air conditioners are no exception.

Here are a few sustainability factors to keep in mind:

Energy efficiency

Higher efficiency units (with higher SEER or SEER2 ratings) use less electricity and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In most parts of Canada, a SEER rating of 16–18 provides a good balance of efficiency and cost.

ENERGY STAR® certification

Choosing an ENERGY STAR® certified air conditioner ensures the unit meets federal energy-efficiency guidelines.

Refrigerant type

Some older refrigerants harm the ozone layer and contribute to climate change. Modern systems typically use more environmentally responsible options like R-410A or R-32, which have lower global warming potential.

Proper sizing

An incorrectly sized air conditioner wastes energy. A right-sized system will run more efficiently, operate longer, and have fewer environmental impacts.

Durability

Systems built to last will reduce waste by lowering the frequency of replacements—an important long-term sustainability benefit.

8. Understanding energy efficiency ratings

In Canada, air conditioner efficiency is commonly measured in SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) or the updated SEER2, which provides a more realistic performance measurement under modern testing standards.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Higher SEER/SEER2 ratings indicate better efficiency.
  
• Higher efficiency usually means a higher upfront cost.
  
• Operating costs generally decrease with better efficiency.
  
• Systems with advanced features like inverter-driven compressors or variable-speed blowers tend to offer better efficiency and comfort.
  

For most Canadian climates, particularly Ontario, a SEER rating of 16–18 is typically ideal. Ultra-high efficiency units (SEER 20+) are usually recommended for hotter regions with very long cooling seasons, which are less common across Canada.

Common efficiency-enhancing features include:

• Variable or multi-stage compressors
  
• Variable-speed fans
  
• Energy-saving modes
  
• Smart thermostat compatibility
  
• Wi-Fi controls

9. How much does an air conditioner cost to run?

Operating costs can vary significantly depending on your home and usage habits. In Canada, running a central air conditioner typically costs between $100 and $250 per month during the cooling season.

The exact cost depends on:

• Size of your home
  
• Efficiency of the AC unit
  
• Local electricity rates
  
• Climate and humidity levels
  
• How often you run the system
  
• Your home’s insulation and air sealing
  

While you can’t control utility prices, improving your home’s insulation, sealing leaks, and choosing a properly sized air conditioner can help keep cooling costs manageable.

10. What features matter most?

Modern air conditioners come with a variety of features designed to improve comfort, durability, and convenience. When comparing units, consider which of these features matter most for your lifestyle:

• Quieter operation through insulated cabinets or advanced fans
  
• Enhanced humidity control
  
• Protective coatings on coils or the outdoor unit
  
• Diagnostic systems to simplify repairs
  
• Wi-Fi or smart home integration
  
• Energy usage monitoring
  
• Heavy-duty or enhanced air filtration
  
• Inverter technology for smoother performance
  
• Self-cleaning components
  
• Geofencing or mobile controls
  

Not all features are necessary for every homeowner, but knowing what’s available can help you prioritize what will benefit you most.

11. Should you consider a year-round solution like a heat pump?

In Canada’s climate, most households require both heating and cooling throughout the year. That’s why many homeowners are now choosing heat pumps instead of traditional air conditioners.

A heat pump works by moving heat rather than generating it:

• In summer: It removes heat from inside your home and releases it outdoors, just like an air conditioner.
  
• In winter: It reverses the process and extracts heat from the outside air—even in cold temperatures—to warm your home.
  

Heat pumps offer several advantages:

• Provide both heating and cooling
  
• Highly energy-efficient
  
• Can reduce heating costs, especially if paired with a gas furnace
  
• Available in ducted and ductless options
  

Some models, known as cold-climate heat pumps, can operate efficiently in temperatures as low as –25°C or –30°C, making them suitable for many parts of Canada.

If you’re replacing both your AC and furnace in the near future, a heat pump may be worth exploring as a long-term, environmentally friendly solution.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right air conditioner for your home doesn’t have to be confusing. By understanding your home’s layout, climate, energy efficiency, and long-term needs, you can make a smart investment that keeps you comfortable for years to come.

If you think something is missing from this guide or you have questions about air conditioner sizing, installation, or efficiency, feel free to ask!

Looking for more guidance on choosing the right air conditioner for your home? 

Our expert-backed resources and contractor directory can help you compare systems, explore pricing, and request quotes from trusted local professionals.

For expert guidance and access to licensed contractors across Ontario and Canada, visit acprices.ca to learn more or request a free quote.

visit Natural Resources Canada – Energy Efficiency to learn energy-saving tips and make informed decisions for comfort and efficiency.