It can be hard to know when it’s time to replace your AC unit. AC units are expensive and should last for a long time, but there comes a point where an AC unit is so old that the cost of repairing it outweighs the cost of buying a new AC unit. In this article, we’ll go over some signs that show that you may need to replace your AC, so you can make an informed decision on whether or not now is the right time.
When to replace your AC
The best time to replace AC is when it is no longer functioning correctly or efficiently. If your AC has become noisy, won’t turn on, or failed to cool the room properly for a few days in a row, you should contact an AC technician immediately.
If your AC unit is old and inefficient, replacing it will result in significant savings over time as using less energy can save up to 20% on annual electric bills, which could add up to thousands of dollars per year depending on how much electricity you use.
When buying an AC replacement, most consumers are torn between choosing one with higher SEER ratings but that costs more upfront versus those with lower SEER rates, but monthly payments may be cheaper due to their financing plan structure. You can find out more about this at frameworksservices.com/ac-replacement and inform yourself on the matter even further. Essentially, both options have pros and cons, so it’s important to weigh the options carefully when making your AC replacement decision.
How much does AC Replacement Cost?
The cost of AC replacement will depend on many factors, like where you live and what type of AC unit that you need, but overall costs can range from $800 all the way up to five digits depending on size and energy efficiency level.
If replacing an existing AC, purchase a new one with at least the same SEER rating as the old one for optimal savings over time – in some cases, it may be worth buying a slightly more expensive model even if monthly payments are higher because there could still be substantial savings over time thanks to less electricity usage which saves money both upfront and long-term.
AC Systems have a Lifespan of 10-15 years
The lifespan of AC units is typically around ten to fifteen years. When you replace an AC unit, it’s important that the new AC system matches your home’s needs and specifications as closely as possible.
Think about how much time has passed since you bought your AC, and if it’s old enough for a replacement. You might be surprised how old AC units can get in just a few years, but they’re not the only things that change over time:
- Your home changes (more insulation added, new windows installed)
- Climate changes (upgrading to AC with more SEER rating for warmer climates or adding heat strips for colder climates)
- HVAC system needs changing from gas to electric or vice versa
The Basics of AC’s
Something everyone should know about AC’s before they start shopping is the basics of what size and type to get.
The first thing anyone should do is measure their space so that they know how much cubic feet per minute (CFM) airflow it needs, which will help in choosing a unit.
This number can be found by multiplying the length times width plus height divided by 2700. For example, if your measurements say you need 150 CFM then 150 x 120 + 180 = 36000/2700=150 or 1200 sq ft total area for a single room or multiple rooms with windows open all day long would require 600 – 700 CFM.
Types of AC’s
As for types, there are two major ones: window-mounted units and central systems installed inside the home. Both come in different sizes and shapes.
Window units are easy to install, but they require a window or outside wall that is unobstructed by trees, buildings, or other structures.
Central systems can be installed with the help of an HVAC professional; however, there may need to be adjustments made for the installation, such as cutting into walls where vents will enter rooms. Central systems also have a higher price tag than standalone ones, so it’s important to figure out what kind best fits your needs before purchasing one.
How to choose a new AC unit in 2021
Choosing an AC unit can be a difficult task, especially in 2021. We are now entering the age of smart homes, and there is no shortage of new technology to choose from when it comes to choosing an AC unit for your home or office.
The first step is choosing which type you would like: window-mounted, wall-hung, split system, portable air conditioner (PAC), or central cooling only?
Central cooling systems will typically require more space than other units, but they can cool large spaces much quicker while also being able to provide heating during the winter months as well. The downside is that these types take up quite a bit of room both vertically and horizontally, so this might not be ideal if you’re limited on space in either area, such as with small windows or in a small home.
Split system AC’s are the most popular type of unit on the market today because they provide heating and cooling with one unit instead of two separate ones as is needed for central systems. The downside to choosing split-system air conditioning is that some models can be quite noisy when operating, so if you’re looking for something quieter, this might not be your best option.
PACs come in both window-mounted or wall hung styles, which makes them extremely versatile, but also means that there’s more than one way to find out how much space it will take up in your house before purchasing it. Portable ac units typically only cool down about 25 degrees Fahrenheit below the temperature outside, while their counterparts like wand-style HVAC provides an even greater range.
There’s no time like the present to start investigating what type of AC system will best suit your needs. Keep in mind that you’ll want an air conditioning installation professional on hand to help with all the technical stuff, so be sure to plan ahead and book a date for one as soon as possible.
Plenty of homeowners are opting for energy-efficient systems right now because they offer lower monthly utility bills and higher resale values than traditional units do.