Is this summer the right time for you to replace your home’s air conditioning system? If your energy bills have gotten too high over time and your AC is over ten years old, the answer may be yes.
The decision to replace your air conditioner takes many factors into account. Depending on the quality of your current equipment, it may be time to consider upgrading to a newer, more efficient model. Before you make any buying decisions, you should have an HVAC professional assess your current setup and make recommendations about what will work best for your home. Here are some other considerations to keep in mind when considering air conditioning replacement:
1. Energy Efficiency
The more energy your air conditioner uses, the more money it will cost you to run. If you’re going to replace your air conditioner, you should use it as an opportunity to improve the energy efficiency of your home. One way to compare the efficiency of different air conditioners is by the SEER rating—the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. A higher SEER rating means greater efficiency and lower operating costs. The federal government mandates that all new air conditioners have a SEER of at least -13.
2. Size
Buying the right size air conditioner is crucial. By today’s standards, many air conditioners in existing homes are too large, and people who replace their systems often end up purchasing the wrong size. This can lead to higher utility bills and uncomfortable living conditions. Your contractor should take measurements of your home to determine the correct load requirements and help you choose the right equipment for your needs.
3. Rebates
Whenever you’re upgrading mechanical systems in your home, you should always be on the lookout for associated rebates. There are often financial incentives available to families that make improvements that will affect their total energy costs. The goal of these programs is to make it more financially viable for people to bring high-performance HVAC equipment into their homes. So before you make any final decisions about what type of air conditioner to use for your upgrade, check if there are any rebates available in your area.
4. Contractors
One of the most important considerations when thinking about air conditioning replacement is who will perform the installation. You should choose an HVAC contractor who takes the time to fully understand the needs of your home and helps you make informed decisions. Proper installation is the first step toward many years of improved energy efficiency. It also helps if you can form a partnership with your contractor, making maintenance and repair in the years to come much easier and less stressful.
When you decide it’s time to think about air conditioning replacement, keep these factors in mind while you make the important choices that will affect the efficiency and comfort of your home for years to come.
Ready to talk about replacing your air conditioner?
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