A critical component of your house that keeps it cool is the AC unit. When it stops working effectively, temperatures can rapidly spike. Instead of sitting in these hot, uncomfortable temperatures, you need to find a suitable AC replacement. Finding one doesn't have to be hard if you study this guide.

Energy-Efficiency 

Not all units are created equal in terms of their energy-efficiency. Some may have advanced features that save you a lot of money, while others drive up your energy bills to the point where they're not affordable.

So that you don't fall into the latter category, you need to carefully consider a unit's energy rating. It will be represented by a numerical figure. Basically, the higher this number is, the more energy-efficient that particular AC unit is. It's also important to read through customer reviews, so you can find out which AC unit is the most energy-efficient. Then, you won't have to stress every time you get an energy bill. 

Size 

When it comes to the size of an AC unit, a lot of homeowners believe bigger is better. That's not necessarily the case because bigger units may have to work harder to stay running, thus driving up your energy costs each month.

Ideally, you want to find a size that works for your particular property. You can narrow down your list of choices by taking into account the square footage and cooling load of your home. If you're not sure what these figures are, you can always consult with an HVAC contractor. They can quickly recommend a size that will work perfectly for your home. 

Type 

Probably the biggest decision you'll have to make when selecting an AC unit is choosing a type. There are many great options today, including central air conditioning, window units, ductless air conditioners, and portable models.

Central air conditioning systems are one of the most popular options because it offers cooling efficiency, even for larger properties. Central units are also fairly easy to maintain and service. If you're looking for something smaller -- for a particular room -- window units are great. They hook up directly to windows and are intended for smaller spaces. Ductless units are also popular because they come with multiple indoor handling units, featuring their own individual thermostat. 

When looking over your AC replacement options, try to keep in mind the bigger picture. Take into account your property, cooling needs, and budget to choose a model that works out long-term.