We’re only halfway through the cooling season – do you feel confident that your A/C will get you through the summer? If you’ve been feeling concerned about your system’s ability to perform efficiently and effectively, it may be time for an upgrade. Here’s a simple guide to knowing when you should replace your cooling equipment, and how you may benefit from doing so.
Understanding when your air conditioner needs to be replaced
It’s generally accepted that if an A/C is older than 12 to 15 years, or if the costs associated with system repairs are approaching 50 percent of the equipment’s replacement value, an upgrade is in order. But these are just rules of thumb. If your unit has a long history of performance issues, if its efficiency rating is low, or if your system is not adequately cooling or dehumidifying your home, you should definitely consider an upgrade. On the other hand, if the A/C’s not giving you problems and seems to be sufficiently cooling your home without outrageous energy bills, there’s no urgent need to begin looking for a replacement.
Enjoying the benefits of an air conditioner upgrade
For most homeowners, the initial costs associated with purchasing a new air conditioner can seem daunting. Fortunately, advancements in cooling technology ensure that you’ll see a quick return on your investment. Today’s cooling systems are designed to run far more efficiently and effectively than those manufactured only a few years ago. This means that if your HVAC contractor sizes and installs your new A/C properly, you could see a significant reduction on your utility bills, while still enjoying more even household temperatures, a steadier flow of conditioned air and better humidity control. And because less moisture in the air will decrease the risk of mold and mildew growth, you should also notice improvements to your indoor air quality. On top of everything else, a new system will enable you to enjoy the peace of mind that your system will operate smoothly, without the risk of a breakdown on the hottest day of the year. Ultimately, by upgrading now, you can evade a lot of stress and expenses down the road.
