Air Conditioning Replacement Looming This Season? Take Action Now
Air conditioning replacement may become inevitable eventually, but it’s not something to dread. Upgrading your air conditioner can not only reduce your cooling bills, but can also keep you more comfortable through the Delaware area’s hot, humid summers. Start planning now and you’ll be able to have a new energy-efficient, high-performance air conditioning system running before the really hot weather hits.
Replacing one unit or both?
Although installing a whole new HVAC system is ideal, if you’re on a tight budget, you can replace only your outdoor unit. In this case, it’s essential your contractor correctly match the new outdoor air conditioning unit with the older indoor heating unit. Mismatched systems are at least 30 percent less efficient than properly matched ones and they wear out faster, too.
Choosing a high-efficiency model
An air conditioning system’s SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) indicates its energy efficiency. Although the current minimum is 13, models with SEERs of 20 or higher are also available. To find a high-efficiency air conditioning system for your air conditioner replacement, look for Energy Star-qualified models.
Finding the right features
Looking for specific features can help you find the most efficient systems. Many of today’s air conditioning systems use a thermal expansion valve (TXV) to control refrigerant flow instead of the less efficient fixed orifice. A variable-speed fan motor increases efficiency and provides more even cooling.
Accurate sizing
An oversized system wastes energy and can’t remove humidity well, while an undersized system won’t cool sufficiently on very hot days. Instead of estimating the new system’s size based on your home’s square footage, your contractor should use Manual J to accurately size your air conditioning replacement.
Correct installation
The outdoor condenser should be located where nothing nearby will impede airflow. Placing the condenser in a shady area can also reduce energy use somewhat. After installation, your contractor should ensure the system’s refrigerant charge and airflow rate are correct.
For straightforward answers to your air conditioning replacement questions, contact us at Sobieski Services. Our goal is to help educate our customers in Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland and New Jersey about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC and plumbing systems).
Image Credit: Tatinauk
