| Ever heard the term, "You get what
you pay for?" Choosing products of higher quality can mean longer
lasting performance and fewer headaches (and expenses) down the road.
Unfortunately, comparing quality between heating and cooling systems is
not always easy. Here are three guidelines we suggest:
As a general rule, the bigger, better known brands will have a better
reputation for quality and reliability - that's how they got to be so
well recognized. For example, Carrier products undergo a rigorous series
of quality tests that begins during initial product development and
continues with field-testing of hand-built prototypes. Many of Carrier's
quality checks during production are performed on every product we make,
not just random samples. And, final products are run-tested. Every
product we make is then backed by warranty protection of key components
as well as the entire product.
Smaller companies and brand names you don't recognize may not perform
these types of tests. It is in your best interest to do a little more
homework about the company itself and its quality/reliability testing
procedures as well as their warranty programs. All of these areas can
give you clues about the quality of the products they manufacture.
Recommendations from friends, neighbors or trusted acquaintances can be
helpful as well. Ask people you trust if they've had a new indoor
comfort system installed. If they're happy with what they've purchased,
it may be worth you time to take a look at the products yourself, check
the quality of installation, and feel the comfort. When doing so,
remember that every home is different, and what may work in your
friend's home may not be the best solution for you.
Product endorsements from independent ratings companies, government
agencies, or consumer groups are generally good sources for reliable
information. These entities have nothing to gain by praising a
particular product, so you can typically trust the information and
opinions they provide. Some third-party endorsements to look for may
include:
 | EPA's Energy Star
| EPA's Green Seal
| Consumer Digest |
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