If a home’s HVAC unit is over a decade old, the odds are high that it is oversized and inefficient. Homeowners should browse the website to learn how they can easily improve overall comfort, reduce their environmental impact, and lower utility bills by upgrading to a new, energy-efficient model.
Improved Comfort
A homeowner should consider replacing their AC system if it no longer cools properly or is noisy. If the home always seems to be humid, the system could be oversized or in danger of failure. HVAC issues could signal the need for significant repairs by Plumbers Waxahachie TX, which may cost almost as much as a new AC unit. In many cases, the upgrade can pay for itself in terms of lower power bills.
Power Savings
To estimate potential savings, the customer should learn their current unit’s SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) rating. If the unit is rated 10 or lower, replacement may be a good option. A unit’s SEER rating is the number of BTUs of cooling it emits per watt-hour of electricity used. Today’s AC units must have a rating of at least 13, and the most efficient models are rated at up to 26.
Other Considerations to Make
Local, state and federal incentives may be available to those considering an upgrade to a new HVAC unit. However, these incentives are disappearing as budgets tighten. Older AC units use a refrigerant that depletes the ozone layer. That chemical, R22, was banned for use in new units as of 2010. Today’s units use a safer, more environmentally-friendly refrigerant.
What Should be Replaced
The cost of AC replacement is a hindrance for many homeowners. A unit with a high SEER rating can cost thousands of dollars, but the installation can drive the cost even higher. For maximum efficiency, a technician will recommend the furnace and AC units be replaced at the same time. These systems usually work from the same blower motor, and a worn-out motor will reduce the new unit’s overall efficiency.
When a homeowner gathers HVAC replacement estimates, Plumbers Waxahachie TX should take their time in evaluating the size, windows, and insulation of the home. A contractor such as Direct Service should inspect the ductwork for leaks, and they should be repaired before the new system is installed. HVAC replacement can be expensive, but it is an investment in overall comfort and lower utility bills.
