With the temperatures soon rising, it is a good idea to check the state of your air conditioning system. This is particularly important if your air conditioning system is 20 years old or more. Once your AC reaches a certain age, it may be time for an upgrade. You should check several factors, including its efficiency, the cost to repair it, and the effectiveness of cooling your indoor air. This article will discuss the factors you should consider to help you decide whether to replace your 20-year-old air conditioner.
Check the Efficiency of Your System
One of the most important factors when deciding whether to replace your old air conditioning unit is its energy efficiency. Modern HVAC models are much more energy efficient than older ones. They require less energy to cool the air at the same level. This leads to you paying lower energy bills and decreasing your carbon footprint.
It is important to check your HVAC system’s Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating (SEER). Most systems have a yellow sticker with an “Energy Guide” label that shows its SEER rating. It may also be displayed near the manufacturer’s serial number.
Generally, modern air conditioning systems have a SEER rating between 13 and 25. Older models may only reach eight or nine. If your HVAC system is 20 years old or older, it’s probably even less efficient than its rating indicates. This means that you could save money on your energy bill of up to 20% each month if you install an upgraded HVAC system.
Determine the Exact Age of Your Air Conditioner
You can expect the average air conditioning system to last approximately 15 to 20 years after installation. After you hit the 20-year mark, you may start to notice signs of inefficiency.
Normal wear and tear of the system may lead to the frequent need for repairs, ineffective cooling, and other problems. Therefore, if your home’s HVAC unit is 20 years old or higher, it is probably reaching the end of its life.
So, how do you determine how old your AC system is? The most accurate way is to look at the original installation paperwork. However, that may not be possible, especially if you were not the owner when it was installed. You can find out the date of manufacture by looking at the nameplate on the outside condenser unit. Each company has its own way of coding, so you may need to consult its website to decipher the numbers and letters.
Assess the Overall Condition of Your Home’s HVAC System
Before you decide to replace your old air conditioner, evaluating all the components of your home’s cooling system is critical. Experienced professionals can do a comprehensive inspection of your ductwork, thermostat, insulation, and other vital features. If there are problems, we offer duct cleaning and duct repair. Depending on the report, you may need to upgrade all the components to achieve the desired cooling and energy efficiency.
Know How Much Money You are Spending on Repairs
Another key factor you must keep in mind is how much you spend on repairing your old air conditioning system. If you frequently find yourself with a malfunctioning system and calling for repairs, it is a sign that you should consider an HVAC replacement.
As time goes on, it is normal for your HVAC system to start experiencing wear and tear. However, you could be throwing money away if breakdowns happen too frequently. You can likely save time, money, and hassle by replacing your system.
Replacement parts of older models are harder to find, especially if the model has been discontinued. That means the parts may be more expensive than those for newer models, driving up the cost of repairs. You have to consider the long-term investment you are putting into an older system compared to installing a new one.
What Are the Benefits of Replacing my Air Conditioner?
Here are some benefits of replacing your 20-year-old air conditioner with a new model.
1. Higher Energy Efficiency
New air conditioners are designed to be more energy efficient and evenly cool your home. This can amount to hundreds of dollars annually. You will also have a lower carbon footprint to help the planet.
2. Increased Indoor Air Quality
Older air conditioners don’t have the same capability to filter your indoor air. Some newer systems are designed to help eliminate harmful airborne pollutants that can accumulate inside your home.
We are proud to offer a range of indoor air quality services. We can install whole-home air purification systems, including UV lights. We can also install humidifier and dehumidifier systems. Your family can breathe healthy indoor air and possibly prevent serious health conditions.
3. Increase Indoor Comfort
When you have a new air conditioning system, you will likely experience more even cooling inside your home. Your family can stay more comfortable, especially during the hot summer months. Some new HVAC models also have fans with variable speeds, smart thermostats, and options to customize your cooling experience. You may also be able to effectively regulate the humidity inside your home, preventing the growth of bacteria and mold.
4. Raise the Value of Your Home
An excellent advantage to replacing your old system with a new energy-efficient HVAC system is that you’ll increase the value of your home. Homebuyers look for homes that have new appliances, including HVAC systems. They don’t want to inherit problems that may be costly to repair. They are also willing to pay higher home prices for properties that are energy efficient because they know it will pay off in the long run.
Making the Choice to Replace Your Air Conditioner System
There are certainly many benefits to having a new air conditioning system. If you have an air conditioner 20 years old or older, you must determine if it is doing its job effectively. Once you notice that your old system is not cooling your home evenly, your indoor air quality is poor, your energy costs are high, or you need frequent repairs, it’s time to consider installing a new HVAC system.
It is best to schedule a professional HVAC inspection to determine how your air conditioner and all of your home’s cooling components are working. Oftentimes, the repairs and maintenance costs are not worth the investment compared to installing a whole new system.
Choose a Trusted HVAC Company
Hiring a trusted HVAC company is the first step to achieving an effective air conditioning system. Beyer Air Conditioning & Heating is proud to provide excellent service to San Antonio and surrounding areas. We have been awarded the Lennox #1 Training Company five years in a row. We have also earned the NATE award and are BBB accredited.
Our experienced team will be able to determine if your old air conditioner needs a replacement. In addition to servicing your air conditioning needs, we provide services in construction, sheet metal, VRF systems, and heating. Call Beyer Air Conditioning & Heating in San Antonio, TX, today for all your HVAC needs!
