Skip to content
Air Conditioner Buyer’s Guide

Choose the right air conditioner with confidence. This guide covers sizing, efficiency ratings (SEER2/EER2), system types, comfort features, installation best practices, costs, rebates, and FAQs—tailored for homeowners across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).

Air Conditioner Buyer’s Guide

Choose the right air conditioner with confidence. This guide covers sizing, efficiency ratings (SEER2/EER2), system types, comfort features, installation best practices, costs, rebates, and FAQs—tailored for homeowners across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).

Quick Highlights (top of page)

  • Right-size first: Room-by-room Manual J load calculation beats rule-of-thumb sizing

  • Efficiency that matters: Look for SEER2/EER2 improvements for lower energy bills and better dehumidification

  • Comfort tech: Inverter or two-stage compressors + variable-speed blowers

  • Quiet operation: Check outdoor sound ratings (dB[A]) and indoor blower profiles

  • Air quality: MERV 8–13 filtration, sealed ducts, and proper condensate control

  • Smart controls: ecobee and similar thermostats boost comfort and savings

  • Pro install: Permits, commissioning, and refrigerant best practices protect performance and warranty


System Types (At a Glance)

  • Ducted Central AC
    Works with your furnace/air handler and existing ductwork to deliver whole-home comfort. Ideal if ducts are in good shape and you want a single thermostat for the house.

  • Ductless Mini-Splits (Single/Multi-Zone)
    Great for homes without ducts, additions, top floors, and hot/cold rooms. Whisper-quiet indoor heads with individual room control and excellent efficiency.

  • Considering Heating Too?
    If you also need efficient heating, a heat pump can replace a traditional AC while providing year-round comfort.

Quick Highlights

  • Right-size first: Room-by-room Manual J load calculation beats rule-of-thumb sizing

  • Efficiency that matters: Look for SEER2/EER2 improvements for lower energy bills and better dehumidification

  • Comfort tech: Inverter or two-stage compressors + variable-speed blowers

  • Quiet operation: Check outdoor sound ratings (dB[A]) and indoor blower profiles

  • Air quality: MERV 8–13 filtration, sealed ducts, and proper condensate control

  • Smart controls: ecobee and similar thermostats boost comfort and savings

  • Pro install: Permits, commissioning, and refrigerant best practices protect performance and warranty


System Types (At a Glance)

  • Ducted Central AC
    Works with your furnace/air handler and existing ductwork to deliver whole-home comfort. Ideal if ducts are in good shape and you want a single thermostat for the house.

  • Ductless Mini-Splits (Single/Multi-Zone)
    Great for homes without ducts, additions, top floors, and hot/cold rooms. Whisper-quiet indoor heads with individual room control and excellent efficiency.

  • Considering Heating Too?
    If you also need efficient heating, a heat pump can replace a traditional AC while providing year-round comfort.

Correct capacity prevents short-cycling, humidity issues, and high bills. We perform a Manual J heat-gain analysis considering insulation, windows, orientation, and occupancy. We also measure static pressure and assess supply/return ducts to ensure your new AC can move the right amount of air—quietly.

  • SEER2: Seasonal efficiency across a range of conditions; higher SEER2 = less energy used over a season.

  • EER2: Efficiency at a specific high-temperature test; helpful for peak-day performance comparisons.

  • Real-world results depend on duct design, airflow, charge accuracy, and thermostat settings—installation quality is everything.

  • Compressor Type

    • Single-Stage: Lowest cost; full on/off—adequate for smaller spaces.

    • Two-Stage: Runs on low most of the time for steadier temps and better humidity control.

    • Inverter/Variable-Capacity: Continuously modulates output for top comfort, lowest energy use, and quiet operation.

  • Blower Motor

    • PSC: Basic; higher power draw.

    • ECM/Variable-Speed: Quieter, more efficient, better filtration and humidity control.

  • Noise
    Check outdoor unit dB(A) ratings and ask about sound blankets, fan design, and vibration isolation.

  • Dehumidification
    Longer, lower-speed cycles (two-stage/inverter) remove more moisture, improving comfort at higher setpoints.

  • Filters: Choose MERV 8–13 based on allergies, pets, and sensitivity.

  • Media Cabinets (4–5″): High surface area = better capture with lower pressure drop—ideal with variable-speed blowers.

  • Coil Cleanliness: Good filtration and routine service keep the evaporator coil clean, preserving capacity and efficiency.

  • Fresh Air: HRV/ERV systems bring in filtered outdoor air to reduce stuffiness.

  • Duct & Airflow Verification: Static-pressure test, proper return air, sealed transitions.

  • Refrigerant Piping: Nitrogen purge while brazing, pressure test, and deep vacuum ≤ 500 microns.

  • Charge Accuracy: Factory weigh-in plus superheat/subcool verification.

  • Condensate Management: Traps, slope, safety float switches, and—if needed—condensate pumps.

  • Electrical & Controls: Dedicated circuit, code-compliant disconnect, thermostat calibration/integration.

  • Commissioning: Documented temperature drop across the coil, airflow, and control logic.

  • Owner Walkthrough: Filter access, app setup, and maintenance schedule.

  • Good: High-efficiency two-stage AC, ECM blower, basic sound reduction

    • Best for: Solid comfort upgrade over builder-grade systems

  • Better: Inverter AC with higher SEER2/EER2, ultra-quiet outdoor unit, improved humidity control

    • Best for: Lower bills, steadier temperatures, quieter operation

  • Best: Premium variable-capacity AC with advanced dehumidification, low sound, and smart thermostat bundle

    • Best for: Maximum comfort, efficiency, and noise reduction

(Model availability and features vary; we provide multiple options at your quote.)

Compare purchase + installation + energy + maintenance over 10–15 years. In many homes, an inverter system pays back in comfort and energy savings—especially when paired with smart controls and a media cabinet for better airflow and filtration.

  • System 10–15+ years old with frequent breakdowns

  • Uses R-22 or has major refrigerant issues

  • High humidity, poor comfort, or rising energy bills
    We’ll provide a repair-vs-replace comparison with lifecycle costs, comfort gains, and eligible incentives.

High-efficiency ACs may qualify for manufacturer or utility incentives. We confirm eligibility, handle paperwork, and offer financing to keep upfront costs manageable.

  • Annual tune-ups: Coil cleaning, electrical checks, firmware updates, charge verification

  • Filter changes: 1″ every 60–90 days; 4–5″ media every 6–12 months (inspect at 6)

  • Outdoor clearance: Keep 18–24″ around the condenser; remove debris and lint for proper airflow

Add our Air Conditioner Protection Plan for annual tune-ups, priority service, repair discounts, and refrigerant/condensate checks.

Proudly serving the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and surrounding communities. Contact us to confirm availability in your neighborhood.

How do I know what size AC I need?
We run a Manual J heat-gain calculation and verify duct capacity/returns—no guesswork.

Is inverter worth the extra cost?
Usually yes. Inverters modulate capacity for quieter operation, better humidity control, and lower energy use.

Do I need new ducts?
Not always. Many homes benefit from added return air, sealing, or transitions to meet airflow/noise targets.

Will a high-MERV filter restrict airflow?
It can. Use a 4–5″ media cabinet and variable-speed blower to achieve high filtration with low pressure drop.

What’s a good temperature drop across the coil?
Typical cooling delta is 16–22°F (9–12°C) under normal indoor humidity and correct airflow/charge.

Can I reuse my old line-set?
Sometimes. We flush or replace based on condition and manufacturer specs to protect the compressor and warranty.

Keep it running like new

Add our Air Conditioner Protection Plan for annual tune-ups, priority service, repair discounts, and refrigerant/condensate system checks. Preventive maintenance extends equipment life and keeps cooling efficiency high.

 

Ready for quieter, more efficient heat? Book your free in-home quote today.

At Coffee Heating and Air Conditioning, we proudly offer a full spectrum of residential and commercial HVAC services across Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area. From expert installation of high-efficiency furnaces, air conditioners, boilers, and water heaters to precision repairs, emergency service calls, and routine system maintenance, our certified technicians ensure year-round comfort and safety for every client. We also specialize in air quality improvements, duct cleaning, smart thermostat integration, and energy-saving upgrades tailored to your home or business. Whether you’re building new, upgrading, or need fast repairs, our team delivers responsive, reliable solutions backed by industry expertise and a commitment to excellence.

At Coffee Heating and Air Conditioning, we proudly offer a full spectrum of residential and commercial HVAC services across Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area. From expert installation of high-efficiency furnaces, air conditioners, boilers, and water heaters to precision repairs, emergency service calls, and routine system maintenance, our certified technicians ensure year-round comfort and safety for every client. We also specialize in air quality improvements, duct cleaning, smart thermostat integration, and energy-saving upgrades tailored to your home or business. Whether you’re building new, upgrading, or need fast repairs, our team delivers responsive, reliable solutions backed by industry expertise and a commitment to excellence.

Back To Top
Call Now Button