New air conditioning systems are important investments. It can be difficult to determine when the timing is right. While buying a new unit can be costly initially, replacing an old or malfunctioning AC system can actually save you money.
If your current AC equipment is running up your electricity bill or functioning poorly, it may be time to consider purchasing something new. There is a lot to learn before you should start shopping for a replacement. Before you begin, here are some things you’ll want to know about replacing your AC system.
1. New Units Are More Efficient
Older AC units have lower efficiency ratings known as SEER ratings. SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. The higher the SEER rating the more efficient the AC unit. The highest rated AC units available today are 25 SEER. Fifteen years ago the top of the line was an 18 SEER, but the standard was just 13.
If your AC unit is outdated, it may not be running as efficiently as it could be. An older system with a lower rating needs more power to generate cool air. The more power used, the higher your energy bills will be each month.
Size also matters when it comes to your new AC unit. A licensed and experienced HVAC Advisor should perform a load calculation, which is the industry’s method of determining what size (tonnage) equipment your home requires. Under-sized or over-sized HVAC equipment will also lead to inefficient temperature control. Your Advisor should also inspect the air ducts your system has in place to make sure they are designed well for the best air flow and are in good working condition.
2. New Units Reduce the Need for Repairs
Maintenance appointments can help your air conditioning system run efficiently for many years. However, older units typically need more care and attention than newer systems.
There are a few things you can do to improve the lifespan of your AC unit, including following a proper maintenance schedule. However, even with the right care, AC units will age. If you’re constantly calling to schedule a repair for your AC unit or your electricity bills are higher than they've been in the past, it may be a sign you need a newer, more efficient model.
By purchasing a new air conditioning system for your home, your HVAC should run smoothly and efficiently with regularly schedule bi-annual maintenance for years.
3. Newer Systems May Come With Incentives
For an additional return on your investment, you may qualify for rebates and/or discounts when you upgrade to a new HVAC system. While there are qualifications to be eligible for some of the incentives, a more-energy efficient system can save you some serious cash.
Utility and manufacturer's rebates as well as other discounts can provide some significant savings depending on the SEER rating of the equipment purchased.
Additional Benefits of a New AC System
If you are still on the fence about a new AC system, here are some additional benefits that an upgrade can afford you:
- Higher energy efficiency and better air flow throughout your home or business.
- Less noise compared to older, clunkier AC units.
- They can be controlled by technologically savvy thermostats that can often even be paired with your smartphone.
- They can help reduce potentially harmful air particles and odors from the air that you breathe and improve your home's overall IAQ (Indoor Air Quality) when combined with an air filtration and purification system.
Replacing Your AC System With Burgeson’s
When considering replacing your old air conditioning system, we recommend speaking with a professional Comfort Advisor. With the right guidance and assistance, you can invest in a new AC system that can save energy and money on utility bills and expenses each month.
As HVAC experts in the San Bernardino and Riverside counties, Burgeson's Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. will advise you in the process of selecting and purchasing a new HVAC system. Burgeson's can also provide you with a service maintenance plan to keep your new system running as efficiently – and cost-effectively – as possible.
For help selecting the right system for your home, contact Burgeson's at 909.792.2222 to schedule a free in-home quote. As the leading experts in the Inland Empire, "Your Comfort Is Our Business."
