preparing your air conditioning unit for summer use

As summer approaches and temperatures begin to soar, people become more reliant on their air conditioning systems to keep their homes cool and comfortable. While air conditioning systems provide an essential service, they also contribute significantly to the household's electricity bill. Many homeowners might consider upgrading their air conditioning systems to improve their energy efficiency and decrease their electricity bills.

Explore below how replacing your AC can impact your energy efficiency and what factors to consider before making the upgrade.

Energy Efficiency Rating

One of the most significant factors to consider before replacing your AC unit is energy efficiency. All AC systems come with a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating, which measures the ratio of cooling output to energy consumption over the cooling season. The higher the SEER rating, the more energy-efficient the system is. By upgrading to a higher SEER rating, homeowners can significantly reduce their electricity costs and improve their home's overall energy efficiency.

Age of the AC Unit

The age of the AC unit is another crucial factor to consider when evaluating energy efficiency. Typically, an air conditioning unit has a lifespan of about ten years. If your AC unit is over ten years old, it might not be as efficient as it once was and could be consuming more energy. In such cases, replacing the AC with a newer and more energy-efficient model can be an excellent investment for homeowners.

Size of the AC Unit

The size of the AC unit is often overlooked, but it plays a crucial role in energy efficiency. An AC unit that is too small for the size of the home will have to work harder to cool the space, leading to increased energy consumption and higher bills. Similarly, an AC that is too large will have more capacity than required, leading to wasted energy and higher bills. Seeking the advice of a professional, such as an HVAC technician, to determine the appropriate AC unit size for your home can go a long way in improving energy efficiency.

Energy-Saving Features

When choosing a new AC unit, homeowners should also consider models with built-in energy-saving features. For example, some systems include programmable thermostats that allow you to set specific temperatures based on the time of day, reducing unnecessary cooling when no one is home. Other models feature variable-speed motors, which automatically adjust the fan speed based on the cooling needs, further increasing energy efficiency.

Upfront Cost and Long-Term Savings

Finally, while replacing your AC unit might seem expensive upfront, the long-term savings on your electricity bill can justify the investment. Energy-efficient AC units might cost more at the time of purchase but offer significant energy savings over time. It's essential to consider both the initial cost and long-term savings before making a decision.

To learn more about AC replacement, reach out to a local HVAC contractor.