Replacing an old air conditioner is a significant decision for any homeowner or business. Whether your current unit is nearing the end of its lifespan or is no longer functioning efficiently, upgrading to a new system can enhance comfort, reduce energy costs, and improve indoor air quality.
At Advanced Cooling, we’ve been helping homeowners and businesses in Texas and Oklahoma make the best decisions about their HVAC systems since 2001. If you’re considering replacing your old air conditioner, here’s everything you need to know before you make a decision.
Age and Condition of Your Current System
The first thing to consider when replacing an old air conditioner is its age. Most air conditioners have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years, and after this point, they may become inefficient, costly to repair, or prone to breakdowns. If your unit is more than 10 years old and requires frequent repairs, it’s probably time to consider a replacement. Additionally, if you notice your air conditioner is struggling to cool your home or business, it may be a sign that the system is working overtime and is no longer performing at peak efficiency.
Key Tip: If your AC is over 10 years old and needing more frequent repairs, a replacement might be more cost-effective than continuing to repair the unit.
Choosing the Right Size Unit
When replacing an air conditioner, it’s essential to choose the right size unit for your space. An oversized or undersized unit can lead to inefficiency, higher energy costs, and discomfort. An oversized air conditioner will cool the space too quickly, causing short cycling (the system turning on and off repeatedly), while an undersized unit will struggle to cool the area, running continuously and raising your energy bills.
Key Tip: Have a professional HVAC contractor perform a load calculation to determine the appropriate size for your new air conditioner. At Advanced Cooling, we provide accurate sizing to ensure optimal performance.
Energy Efficiency and SEER Ratings
One of the most important factors to consider when replacing an old air conditioner is energy efficiency. Older air conditioners often have lower SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings, meaning they consume more energy to cool the same amount of space. Newer models are designed to be more energy-efficient, which can help you save on energy bills over time.
The SEER rating measures how efficiently a cooling system operates over a typical cooling season. Modern air conditioners typically have SEER ratings ranging from 13 to 21, with higher numbers indicating more efficient systems.
Key Tip: Look for ENERGY STAR® certified units, which meet strict energy efficiency guidelines. While the initial investment may be higher, the long-term energy savings can make up for the difference.
Refrigerant Type
Older air conditioners often use R-22 refrigerant, also known as Freon, which has been phased out due to its harmful effects on the environment. Newer systems use R-410A refrigerant, which is more environmentally friendly and efficient. If your current AC unit uses R-22, it may be harder (and more expensive) to maintain, as the supply of R-22 is becoming limited.
Key Tip: When replacing your air conditioner, opt for a model that uses R-410A refrigerant to ensure compatibility with current environmental standards and avoid the cost of sourcing and replacing R-22.
Installation Location
The location of your air conditioner’s installation can impact its efficiency and longevity. The outdoor unit should be placed in an area with good airflow, away from obstructions like bushes or fences. It should also be located in a spot that’s easy to access for maintenance and repair work.
Key Tip: Ensure that the installation location of your new system is optimized for airflow and ease of maintenance. A professional HVAC contractor can help determine the best placement for your new unit.
Indoor Air Quality
Replacing your air conditioner is a great opportunity to improve the indoor air quality in your home or business. Newer air conditioning systems are equipped with advanced filtration systems that can help remove dust, allergens, and other pollutants from the air. This is especially important for individuals with allergies or respiratory issues.
Key Tip: Consider adding air purifiers or upgrading to a system with a better filtration system, such as HEPA filters or UV lights, which can help maintain cleaner, healthier air inside your space.
Cost of Replacement vs. Repair
One of the key considerations when replacing an air conditioner is cost. Replacing an AC unit can be a significant upfront investment, but it’s essential to weigh that against the cost of repairing an old, inefficient system. Frequent repairs, high energy bills, and poor performance are all signs that replacing your system may be more cost-effective in the long run.
Key Tip: If your air conditioner is more than 10 years old and requires frequent repairs, it may be more affordable to replace the unit rather than continue to pay for repairs. An HVAC professional can help you calculate the total cost of ownership, including energy savings, to determine which option makes the most financial sense.
Choosing a Reputable HVAC Contractor
Selecting the right HVAC contractor is crucial for ensuring a smooth and successful replacement. An experienced, licensed contractor will help you select the best air conditioning unit for your needs, handle proper installation, and ensure that the system is operating efficiently.
Key Tip: Choose a contractor with a strong reputation in your area. At Advanced Cooling, we take pride in offering professional, courteous, and reliable service. Our team is experienced in handling AC replacements and will ensure that your new system is installed correctly for maximum comfort and efficiency.
Maintenance and Warranty Options
Once you’ve replaced your air conditioner, it’s important to maintain it properly to ensure its longevity and continued efficiency. Most new air conditioners come with manufacturer warranties, which can protect you from unexpected repair costs. Be sure to ask your HVAC contractor about any available maintenance plans or extended warranties to keep your system running smoothly.
Key Tip: Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the coils, changing the filters, and checking refrigerant levels, can extend the lifespan of your air conditioner and help prevent costly repairs. Advanced Cooling offers maintenance packages to help keep your system in top condition.
Financing Options
Replacing an old air conditioner can be a significant expense, but many HVAC companies offer financing options to help make the replacement more affordable. Financing allows you to spread out the cost of the new system over time while still enjoying the comfort and energy savings that come with a new, more efficient unit.
Key Tip: Ask your HVAC contractor about financing options and special promotions that may be available to help reduce the upfront cost of installation.
Conclusion
Replacing an old air conditioner can be a game-changer for your comfort, energy efficiency, and indoor air quality. By carefully considering factors such as system size, energy efficiency, refrigerant type, and installation costs, you can make an informed decision that benefits your home or business in the long run. Working with a professional HVAC contractor like Advanced Cooling ensures that the installation is done correctly, efficiently, and safely.
If you’re ready to replace your old air conditioner, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Our team is here to help you choose the perfect system and ensure a seamless, worry-free installation process. Let us help you stay cool and comfortable, no matter the season!
Advanced Cooling is the premier choice for HVAC services in Texas and Oklahoma. With a team of highly trained and certified technicians, we have the expertise to handle all of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning needs. Our commitment to customer satisfaction is unmatched, and we always go above and beyond to ensure that your experience with us is positive. We use only the highest quality parts and equipment to ensure that your HVAC system is running at peak performance. Plus, we offer competitive pricing and flexible scheduling to fit your needs. Choose Advanced Cooling for all of your HVAC needs in Texas and Oklahoma.
