What Do You Need To Know About Air Conditioning Services, Installation, And Seniors
Does your aging parent need replacement air conditioning services for an older unit? Before you (or your loved one) agrees to an estimate or selects a new system, take a look at the top home air conditioning questions to ask.
Why Does Your Parent Need a New AC System?
Do you have concerns about the AC system in your parent's home? According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), older adults are more likely to suffer from heat stress. Without a functional AC system, your parent's home could pose a health or safety risk. This makes the replacement a necessary home improvement project.
What Are the Costs Involved?
Is your loved one on a fixed income? If your aging parent is retired, lives off a pension, or has a limited budget, the AC system and installation need to fit within their financial limits. Even though a new air conditioner is a major home investment, AC systems are available in a variety of costs.
Don't let an anticipated price tag stop your parent from this home comfort purchase. If their old system no longer works or costs more to repair than replace, an HVAC contractor can help them to find a new model in a reasonable price range.
Along with the cost of the system, discuss the price of installation. Some contractors charge one flat per service fee, while others bill by the hour. If the HVAC company charges customers for labor per hour, ask for an estimate of the time the job will take to complete. This can help your parent to understand the overall costs involved in the job.
What Additions or Adaptations Are Available?
Does your parent have mobility, hearing, or vision issues? Some age-related medical or physical conditions can make it difficult to accurately operate an HVAC system. If your parent can't seem the thermostat, doesn't hear the AC system turn on, or struggles to change the temperature, talk to the contractor about adaptations.
A talking thermostat, programmable thermostat, and other modifications can help aging seniors to easily use their HVAC system. A smart thermostat/system is another option that can help both you and your aging parent.
With a click of an app, you can assist your loved one with their AC system remotely. Whether you program temperature changes or you manually make the changes when they need, you won't need to make an extra trip to mom and dad's house to help them with their cooling needs.
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