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 isn’t getting cool enough.
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.
Your air conditioner’s warranty has expired.
Once your air conditioner’s warranty expires, you will be on the hook for paying for repairs. This may not be a major problem if the AC only requires minor repairs and tune-ups. However, if your AC completely breaks down and requires a major, costly repair, then it may be best to upgrade to a new unit instead of fixing your old one. Your new AC will be covered by a warranty, and it should subsequently last for at least a decade.
Your air conditioner uses Freon.
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.
Your cooling costs are too high.
Another problem with running an old central AC is that they tend to result in high utility bills. This is because the old units are not as energy-efficient as the newer units. When you upgrade to a new unit, though, you can look for one with a high SEER number. The SEER number indicates the level of energy efficiency. Modern ACs have a minimum SEER of 13. Energy-efficient units can have a rating of 16 through 22. The higher the number is, the more energy-efficient it is, and the more money you will save on cooling costs.
When it’s time to upgrade your air conditioner, you can turn to the trusted pros at American Conditioned Air. Our family-owned business has proudly served the Tucson area since 1976. Over the years, we have built a reputation for integrity, reliability, and great customer service. Want to learn more? Call us today at (520) 623-2430. Also, be sure to ask how you can get a rebate up to
$1,650 on a qualified home comfort system by Carrier!
