So you’ve made the decision to replace your air conditioner. Whether it was by choice knowing your old system was going to cost you a lot more in the long run or by force when your old one chose to give out, you’ve made a decision to make a serious investment in your home. But that’s just the first decision. Next, you’ll have to decide what features are important to you. There are lots of different things you need to take into consideration, so to help you make an informed decision, this blog offers some advice regarding things you should know.
System Specs
SEER Rating
The first and most important thing you should consider is the SEER rating, or energy efficiency rating, on your new system. Older systems usually topped out at a SEER rating of around 6. Today, a system can’t even be sold unless it provides a SEER rating of at least 14. And there are plenty of other options that are even more energy-efficient than that. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient your system.
Size Needs
Is bigger really always better? Not when it comes to your air conditioner. In fact, your system needs be within the parameters that will allow it to work properly while also effectively heating and cooling your home. A system that’s too big will actually struggle with your smaller, limited vent and duct system, thus wasting energy, and possibly even over-humidifying your home.
Expansion Valve
This may not be the first thing you think of… or even a thing you think of at all when purchasing a new air conditioner, but it’s an unbelievably important component. This valve expands and contracts with the temperature of the refrigerant that flows through your system, allowing it to maintain the exact amount of necessary pressure and prevent rapidly expanding refrigerant from bursting your lines.
Added Features
Variable Speeds
You may want to consider purchasing a system that has a variable speed blower motor. These give you a more precise amount of control over your home’s air flow, which in turn could actually save you money.
Smart Thermostat
You’ll probably need to replace your old thermostat as well. Why not use this opportunity to upgrade to a new smart thermostat. These small devices can be programmed with or sometimes even learn your temperature and living habits to adjust the settings on your system as needed. Before long, your home will be comfortable and your energy bill smaller without you ever having to touch the dial again. Most are even wi-fi connected, allowing you to change system settings from anywhere in the world!
Self-Diagnostic
Some systems can run self-diagnostic programs on them to figure out whether they need a repair or not. Some keep track of how long it has been since you changed your air filter. Others can even recognize when air flow has been restricted and notify you if there’s an issue that needs resolved. These systems are often the longest-lasting because they tell you about a problem before it’s too late to get it fixed.
For a complete air conditioner replacement, call Del-Air Heating and Air Conditioning today at 888-831-2665 and schedule your service appointment!
