Summer is right around the corner! Hence, HVAC companies are already getting requests to perform tune-up services on central air conditioners to get them ready for the season. But before you make that call, consider whether it might be best to upgrade your old air conditioner instead. Getting a new AC is a big investment, but it might save you money in the long run, especially if your current air conditioner is more than 10 years old. If you think you might want to upgrade your unit, you are better off doing it soon—before the scorching summer heat descends on Tucson. So, how can you tell when it’s time to replace? Below, you will find some key signs that it is time to make that upgrade.
Your home should be an oasis from the summer heat. If your air conditioner didn’t keep your home cool last summer, then it might be too small for your home. An HVAC technician can assess your home’s size and make recommendations for an appropriate size of AC unit that will keep your home comfortable this summer. Of course, another possible reason why your home wasn’t getting cool enough might be that you didn’t get a tune-up last year. Dirty air filters, loose parts, and poor lubrication can adversely affect your air conditioner’s performance. But if your AC still performs poorly despite being serviced regularly, then it may be time to consider upgrading it.
For a long time, ACs used a refrigerant called chlorodifluoromethane (R-22), also known by its brand name, Freon. Freon is an effective refrigerant, but it’s also harmful to the environment. In 1987, the U.S. joined with other nations in agreeing to reduce the use of greenhouse gases, including R-22. That agreement took effect in 2004. Starting in 2010, new HVAC systems were banned from using Freon. Freon continued to be produced in the U.S. in order to maintain older HVAC systems. However, production and import of Freon will completely cease here by 2020. This means that if you have an older AC that uses Freon, you’ll be unable to obtain new Freon if it leaks. If you aren’t sure whether your old AC uses R-22, ask an HVAC technician for guidance. The technician can also help you with your options for upgrading to a new unit that doesn’t use Freon.
Recent Posts
About
We offer 24/7 emergency service to all of our customers. You can always count on American Conditioned Air’s experts to get to you right away and to get the job done right the first time. We use state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment to find the source of your heating and air conditioning problems and fix them fast.