When it is time for an AC replacement, it is important to take your time to find out what new options are available and make sure the new air conditioner you end up installing is the best option for you. From basic functions to brand new tech, there is a lot to research when you are considering an AC replacement.
First, it can be easy to end up with an air conditioner that is not ideal for your home or business. In fact, many buildings have AC units that are not the right size for the space. Most people just look for an AC replacement that has the same air capacity as their last unit, without having a heating & air conditioning professional confirm it is the right size for the space. As your needs may change over time, it is important to do a load calculation before any install.
Get Smart with New Tech
Once you get the basics right, by having an HVAC professional confirm the size and layout of your new AC replacement, you should think about features that are important to you. These days there are a lot of options available on new air conditioners, and many help with energy efficiency, noise control, and more. A few things to look out for are units with noise suppression features, air cleaning features like central air purifiers, and dual-stage compressors, which can help increase energy efficiency.
Perhaps the most exciting new AC technology though is the smart HVAC system. Expanding on the idea behind programmable thermostats, the smart HVAC unit learns your preferences based on use and can predict when it’s time to turn up the power, go into energy saving mode, and more. For a less pricey option, though, a more basic programmable thermostat is included standard with most new AC units being manufactured.
Prevent Issues from Old Units
One of the main reasons to start thinking about AC replacement is that older parts can cause a lot of problems. As your air conditioner ages, parts might become outdated, and that makes repairs a lot more difficult and pricey. On the upside, an AC replacement to a newer model brings with it a lot of technological advances that have become standard.
An important change in this realm is the ongoing phase-out of R-22 refrigerant, which was the standard refrigerant for years. When it was discovered that R-22, otherwise known as Freon, was a major contributor to ozone depletion, the EPA began a phase-out of the refrigerant in favor of Freon replacement alternatives. New air conditioners use these new refrigerants already, so an AC replacement can make the phase-out a moot issue if you have an air conditioner that currently uses Freon.
Is It Time to Replace?
In general, technology has improved the modern air conditioner quite a bit. Just about everything from control options to fan speed to energy efficiency are going to be better on an AC replacement unit. You can do quite a bit with a programmable thermostat, and the diagnostics available will even help your heating & air conditioning team with maintenance and repairs. There is a lot to consider when it is time for an AC replacement, but if you do decide to replace, there are a lot of great new options available.
Schedule Your AC Replacement in St. Louis
For more information about AC replacement or to schedule a heating & air conditioning maintenance checkup in St. Louis, connect with us today!
