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Upgrading to an Energy-Efficient AC: What You Need to Know

Upgrading to an Energy-Efficient AC: What You Need to Know

Are you a homeowner considering upgrading to an energy-efficient AC system? If you are, you’re not alone. Energy-efficient ACs have become increasingly popular over the last decade, and their popularity continues to grow. This is largely because of the benefits an energy-efficient system can provide. If you are in the market for a new, energy-efficient AC system, here are a few things you should be aware of before making a purchase.

Combating Higher Energy Bills

There are many financial drawbacks to keeping an older, less efficient AC system past its prime. Although you may be tempted to keep your current equipment, upgrading to an energy-efficient AC system can save you up to 40% on your monthly utility bill. Over time, due to frequent wear and tear, your AC system has to work harder to maintain your desired temperature. This extra work results in greater energy consumption and a higher charge.

SEER Ratings

When shopping for a new, energy-efficient AC system, you will want to seek out a system with a high SEER rating. SEER stands for seasonal energy efficiency ratio. The SEER number represents how much electricity is necessary to remove a certain amount of heat from an indoor space of a certain size. The higher the SEER number, the more energy-efficient the system is. Many newer AC systems offer SEER ratings as high as 25. Many older systems have ratings as low as 10. This means an older system is working much harder to maintain the desired temperature.

Choosing the Right Size of AC

No matter what your new AC system’s SEER rating is, you will need to make sure the equipment is properly sized for your home. If your system is too large, it will produce shorter cycles, which can prevent adequate dehumidification, making your home feel warmer. If your system is under the correct size, it will have to work harder to maintain the desired temperature, causing it to endure premature wear and tear.

BTUs (British thermal units) are used to measure AC system sizes. As a general guideline, one ton of AC system is required to cool a 1,000-square-foot space. To properly size your system, you will need to be aware of more than just BTUs. Factors such as your home’s exposure to the sun, air leakage, and insulation are important considerations. You should also take into account the climate you live in. An AC professional can help you choose the right size for your new system.

Benefits of Energy-Efficient AC Systems

You’ll find you can derive many advantages from upgrading your AC. Here are a few of them.

Improved Indoor Air Quality

The quality of air in your home largely depends on your AC’s efficiency. For this reason, choosing an energy-efficient system can help you keep your air free of irritants and clean. Inefficient AC systems can cause pollutants to build up inside your home, resulting in a less-than-healthy environment. Too many indoor pollutants can cause headaches, coughing, sneezing, respiratory problems, asthma attacks, and more. Energy-efficient AC systems can help you keep your family healthy.

If you want clean air, seek out an energy-efficient AC system that comes with HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filters. These filters are excellent at removing microscopic particles from the air. They can remove particles such as mold, bacteria, pollen, and dust. Just remember to change your filter every three months. This will ensure your air remains clean.

Better Humidity Control

During the warmer months, the humidity can make hot weather even more miserable. To ensure a comfortable indoor temperature, you will need an AC system that maintains the optimal humidity level. Older, less energy-efficient systems were not manufactured with humidity control features. New, energy-efficient AC systems are equipped with built-in humidity sensors that work continually.

More Consistent Cooling

Are you having trouble maintaining a consistent temperature in your home? Does one room frequently feel hotter or colder than the others? If you answered yes to these questions, you could benefit from installing an energy-efficient AC system. When there are temperature inconsistencies throughout your residence, your system is probably wasting energy, which results in higher utility bills for your household. Fortunately, many newer energy-efficient AC systems use zoning to heat and cool spaces. This feature allows you to set different temperatures in different rooms (zones) of your home. In other words, you can keep your bedroom cooler than your living room if you want.

Longer Life Span

Like any other mechanical device, AC systems have a projected life span. Most newer, energy-efficient models are designed to last slightly longer than traditional AC systems. Since they require far less energy to work, they are less prone to the wear and tear older, less efficient systems endure. Many new, energy-efficient systems can last up to 20 years or more when they are properly installed and maintained. It is important to note, however, that factors such as the type and brand of system you choose and the climate you live in will ultimately impact how long your AC system lasts.

Quieter Operation

Is your AC system loud and distracting? If you have an older, noisier AC, you may want to consider upgrading to a newer, energy-efficient system. The older an AC system gets, the louder it tends to be. Fortunately, a new, energy-efficient AC can provide you with the quiet you crave.

Energy-efficient AC systems are better insulated, and this insulation helps reduce vibrations and lower noise levels. They often also feature variable speed motors, which maintain the right temperature by adjusting their speed. This means they create less noise because the speed changes are more subtle than simply going from off to on. Placing a compressor blanket on the outdoor component of your AC system can also help you reduce its noise level.

Higher Property Selling Price

When you consider putting your home on the market, you could get a higher price for it if you have an energy-efficient AC system installed. Choosing to install an energy-efficient AC can have a major payoff when the time to sell comes along, primarily because buyers know they will have lower utility bills. While it is not possible to calculate the exact return on your investment from an energy-efficient AC, you can be sure it will increase the market value of your home. Homes with energy-efficient features are becoming more desirable all the time.

Increased Convenience and Comfort

Newer, energy-efficient AC systems tend to offer more. They are typically equipped with smart thermostats, which allow you to set more exact temperatures and adjust them to your schedule, saving quite a lot of money. Many come with smart features that offer even more control and convenience. Other features such as variable speed motors make some modern AC systems far more convenient, and they help you maintain your comfort more easily.

Your Local HVAC Experts

Crystal Blue Plumbing, Heating & Air in Sacramento, CA offers a complete spectrum if premier air conditioning, heating, and plumbing options. Our services are prompt, reliable, and professional, and you can be sure we won’t stop working until you are satisfied. Contact us today to schedule an AC appointment at your convenience.