While you may think simply repairing your old air conditioner may seem like the most inexpensive way to go, depending on its age, in the long run, a replacement will most likely save you more money. Since close to 50% of your utility bills are being taken up by cooling and heating, it is important to consider a replacement for a new energy efficient unit.

Older air conditioners tend to be inefficient in comparison to newer AC units with the latest technological improvements. This causes the older units to contribute to a huge energy bill, not to mention, constant repair costs. Moreover, replacing your old heating and cooling system can save you hundreds of dollars annually, while ensuring a comfortable indoor atmosphere. Today’s air conditioners are designed to use about 30% – 50% less energy consumption than most older models.

Some of the things to take into consideration when deciding whether or not to replace your cooling system include age of the unit, leaking ducts, high levels of humidity in the home, excessive dust, high electricity bills, and noise.

Here are a few other things to think about, as well, if you are considering replacement.

Types of Central Air Conditioners

Believe it or not, there are different types of central air conditioners that you can choose from. The two major types of central air conditioning units are:

Packaged Unit – With this type of central air conditioner, the compressor, evaporator, and condenser are located outdoors.  This configuration allows it to take up less space and is easy to install.

Split system – Unlike the packaged unit, it is only the compressor and condenser that are located outdoors while the evaporator is located indoors. One major advantage of split systems is that they have SEER ratings between 13 and 25, making them very energy efficient.

So, in summary, what should you consider when choosing whether or not to replace your old, inefficient AC and what should you replace it with? Some of the factors to consider include:

Energy efficiency

This is the main reason you are replacing your old air conditioner, therefore go for a high SEER rating because a higher rating means greater efficiency.

Size

You need an air conditioner that will keep your home cool. A small size may be convenient in terms of space but will not necessarily keep your home cool. On the other hand, an over sized system may not be a good investment.

The best way to determine the size of the air conditioning unit that is best suited for your home is by understanding your cooling needs in relation to certain features of your home like sun exposure and window dimensions. Consulting with an expert heating and cooling company like New Berlin Heating & Air Conditioning will help ensure you get the right cooling system to fit your home and comfort needs.

Noise

A noisy air conditioner can cause extra stress and frustration in your home. An air conditioner that produces less noise is something to consider, as you will enjoy cool temperatures without having to put up with noise permeating your home. Your neighbor will thank you too if they live close!

Lifespan

Try to choose a cooling system that has a longer lifespan with lower service needs.  This will reduce how much money you spend on repairs and overall maintenance, while not having to replace the unit for a longer period of time; hence, the lifetime ownership costs of maintenance and lower energy bills will be less.

While the above factors are very important in helping decide whether to get a new AC system and what type to choose, here are a few additional ways replacement can save you money on energy bills and give you better air quality.

Rebates and incentives

You can also save on your electricity bill or taxes by installing a new AC through rebates and tax incentives that are available to those who upgrade their central air conditioners.

Optional/Available Control system

You can include control strategies in your heating and cooling system so that the system is only used when needed, saving you additional money.

Energy efficiency and Eco-friendliness

Since today’s air conditioners use Puron, as opposed to Freon, you get both energy efficiency and environmentally friendly benefits at the same time.

Replacing your old air conditioner is a major step towards reducing your electricity bills and being more environmentally friendly, and doing so allows you to enjoy the atmosphere or a well-cooled home. However, the decision and choices can be overwhelming if you are not an AC specialist. New Berlin Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help with your air conditioning in Brookfield WI and Waukesha County! Our experts will come to your home and go over all of the factors that will affect how a new unit will benefit your home, and what type and size cooling system will be the best fit for your current situation and environment. Call us today for all of your heating and cooling needs or questions!