The average lifespan of a central air conditioner is 15 to 20 years. However, few air conditioners hit the 20-year mark. Units that are over ten years old may experience persistent performance issues and frequent breakdowns. You can choose to continue incurring repair costs or just replace the AC with a newer model. Although buying a new air conditioner can be a significant investment, it comes with numerous benefits. Check out the following reasons why you should replace your 15-year-old air conditioner.
Enjoy Even Cooling
Old air conditioners provide uneven cooling due to reduced performance. Over time, the unit's components experience age-related wear, causing them to stop working as efficiently as they did when new. Also, older units may have poorly zoned systems, leading to hot and cold spots in the home. Ducted central ACs may also experience cooling issues because of ductwork deterioration.
Replacing your old air conditioner allows you to enjoy even cooling throughout your home. New units come with high-performance components that can meet the cooling needs of your home. During the replacement, you can also install new, well-insulated ducts to prevent air leaks and boost airflow in all the rooms. You can also design new zones to ensure that the AC meets each room's cooling needs properly.
Save Money on Energy Costs
Reduced efficiency and performance in old air conditioners can lead to a spike in your annual energy bills. Old systems with worn components and dirty ductwork and filters consume a lot of energy when cooling a home. Furthermore, features such as single-speed compressors in older units can increase your home's cooling costs.
The US Department of Energy requires central air conditioners to have a minimum seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) of 14 or 15, depending on the state. This ratio translates into significant energy savings during cooling. Besides meeting these minimum efficiency requirements, manufacturers also include unique features to maximize the efficiency of their units.
For example, modern units use inverter technology to match compressor and fan speeds to the cooling load. Thus, when you require less cooling, the unit runs at lower speeds and saves energy. By replacing your old air conditioner with a newer model, you can significantly lower your overall cooling costs.
Achieve Comfort and Convenience
Air conditioners that were manufactured over 15 years ago don't use the same technology as modern units. Your unit probably has basic cooling features and manual controls. Modern units come with advanced technologies and features. They include:
- Advanced air filtration capabilities
- Advanced air dehumidification features
- Smart thermostats
- Remote monitoring and access
A new air conditioner can boost indoor comfort, reduce seasonal allergies in households, and increase convenience with its smart features.
Are you ready to replace your 15-year-old air conditioner with a modern unit? Contact a local HVAC service, such as Neil Slattery Plumbing Heating and Cooling, for AC replacement services.
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