How to Buy a Used Air Conditioner

Air conditioners are essential in most parts of the country during sultry summer nights and hot summer days, but you don't have to take out a loan to get one if you consider looking for a nice used air conditioner. With the right questions and a keen eye, you can find a used air conditioner at a great price.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Gather the information about your house you will need to consider the air conditioner you want. This should include the size of your house, how many rooms you want to cool and how you would like the air conditioner to install. This will mostly depend on how your windows open and where in the house they're positioned.

2. Research air conditioners to decide on the possible brand and the power of air conditioner you want. You should also decide if you will be purchasing more than one, which could give you more negotiation power later on. One of the most popular sizes for cooling a couple rooms is 8,000 BTU per hour and the brands certified by Energy Star are the ones to go with.

3. Make a list of the places to find used air conditioners. This could include garage and estate sales, used appliance stores or repair shops, online auction or selling sites and the local classified ads. Make sure to ask to see the unit in person before purchasing and if ordering online, ask about shipping costs as many units can weigh up to one hundred pounds, making shipping charges quite high.

4. Ask for a warranty or guarantee. It is likely the manufacturer's warranty will be expired, but look up the information and inquire about purchasing an extended warranty. You could also ask the seller or business for a set amount of time, say 30 days, to bring the unit back if it doesn't work. Most online auction sites and private sellers will most likely sell the unit(s) "as is" unless you are able to persuade them otherwise.