Being a homeowner comes with many responsibilities as well as the requirement to make tough decisions when the times call for it. But in regard to your AC system, we understand how it can be overwhelming to make decisions based on certain factors. For example, with the warmer weather fast approaching, perhaps you’ve considered the efficiency of your current air conditioner. Is it an older system? Has it been giving you trouble? Will it make it through the hottest months of the year? How do you know when the right time to upgrade your system is? Join your Lebanon Heating & Cooling service experts as we walk you through every detail to consider regarding AC upgrades.
DO YOU KNOW HOW OLD YOUR CURRENT AC IS?
If you have had your current AC unit for a long time, it may be time to consider your upgrade options – especially if it has been having issues lately. In general, the lifespan of an air conditioner is about 12-17 years. This is just an average, as everyone’s air conditioning system’s lifespan will be different based on the model and upkeep it has received over the past years. It’s kind of similar to your vehicle. Multiple factors will play into how long a car will last you; your AC is also a complex piece of machinery that operates systematically with your entire HVAC system. That being said, having “an older AC” is not the ONLY reason that indicates it is time for an upgrade. Let’s explore this a little more.
DOES YOUR AC BREAK DOWN OFTEN?
If your older AC unit has been acting up recently, and you have had multiple problems with it, resulting in numerous repairs – this is another tell-tale sign it’s time to look for a more efficient cooling unit. While repairs are a great and cheaper option, multiple repairs over time can add up and cost a lot cumulatively. Moreover, if you keep opting for the repair jobs and going the “patch it up” route, you may just find yourself without a functioning AC unit in the middle of the summer, which is a very inconvenient time to be without cool air! So, remember… frequent breakdowns equal frequent repairs; they all add up. And eventually, your older air conditioner will permanently protest and stop working altogether.
DO YOUR ENERGY BILLS SEEM EXCESSIVELY HIGH?
Got high energy bills? Naturally, there can be a multitude of reasons why your monthly energy bill may be excessive. But generally speaking – your HVAC system should consume up to 46% of your monthly energy costs. So, if you find that running your system each month costs way more than this, it’s likely your AC has stopped running effectively. Over time, an AC will wear down and lose its efficiency or malfunction, causing it to work harder and longer, ultimately racking up your monthly energy costs.
Suppose you choose to upgrade your AC to a new, energy-efficient unit. In that case, you will not only reap the benefits of a smooth-operating cooling system, but a more energy-conscious modern system will also help lower your monthly energy expenses. So, if the initial upfront costs are swaying you from diving in to make the decision, consider all the costs involved, such as your energy bills and multiple repair costs.
DOES YOUR AC USE R22 REFRIGERANT?
If your AC uses R22 refrigerant (a refrigerant used in most older air conditioners), remember that this refrigerant has been phased out by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). It is now an unregulated refrigerant that cannot be obtained and used anymore. So, the next time your unit needs to be refilled, you may find it challenging to find a compatible and regulation-compliant refrigerant replacement. In addition, it can be quite costly to refill your AC with refrigerant – yet another cost to be mindful of.
However, although this may seem insanely inconvenient, it is not completely bad news. The benefits of an eco-friendlier system will come with the use of new, energy-efficient AC. What does this mean? Good question – since modern-day ACs do not require the use of this outdated refrigerant, a newer unit emits significantly fewer carbon emissions, ultimately benefiting your home and the environment.
If you’ve got more questions, we have answers! We’d love to hear from you and answer any questions you’ve got on your mind. In fact, we can schedule a free estimate and consultation to assess your house and see what model AC is the best fit for your home. Furthermore, we are proud to say that we offer financing as an option. So, please give us a call at your convenience, and let’s talk!
Call Lebanon Heating & Cooling today at (513) 540-1773, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
