5 Reasons Why Replacing Your AC Unit Will Ultimately Save You Money

By
Home Builder

new-ac-unit

If your central air conditioning system is 10 years old or older, you could be throwing away hundreds of dollars each year in excess energy costs. While replacing your system does mean upfront costs, you'll ultimately end up saving enough money to pay for the new system in just 4 to 5 years. Read on to learn from Precision Air and Heating how much you could potentially save if you make the switch.

The Top 5 Reasons Why a New A/C System Will Save You Money

If you're considering replacing your current air conditioning system, the initial cost may be a bit off-putting. Balance your replacement cost against the ways you'll save with a new system, and the initial investment is much more reasonable.

Higher SEER Numbers

Air conditioners are rated for energy efficiency by what is known as a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, or SEER. The higher the SEER number on your air conditioner, the more energy efficient it is, which automatically leads to lower energy bills. An increase of just 1 SEER point translates to a 10% savings in energy. Air conditioners sold today need to have SEER ratings of 13 or higher. (Current systems have ratings up to 21.) Purchasing a new air conditioner with a high SEER rating may cost more than one with a lower rating, but it will save you hundreds in monthly energy charges. 

Lower Energy Bill

Today's air conditioners are more energy efficient, using far lass energy than older models. If your air conditioner is at least 10 years old (or older), upgrading your air conditioner will save you 40 to 60% each month. Your new unit pays for itself in just 4 to 5 years. 

Ongoing Maintenance Costs

To run efficiently, your air conditioner needs to be serviced on a regular basis. Older air conditioners require more service than newer models, and that service can only get it working at its top capacity — it can't improve how well the air conditioner runs or make it more energy efficient. By buying a new model, you'll be able to save on maintenance that older units need just to keep running.

Ductwork Inspection

If your ducts are as old as your current HVAC system, you may be losing as much as 30% of your home’s cooling and heating as it travels along them. Gaps, unnecessary bends, and older ducts can all lose energy before it reaches its destination. A new air conditioner installation takes your current ductwork into consideration, maximizing its effectiveness — reducing energy loss, and lowering your energy bills. 

Zoning

If your air conditioning system is more than 10 years old, and you live in a home with two or more levels, installing a new system could also help you save money with zones. Zones divide up your house into separate areas and block the flow of air to specific areas with dampers. You can actually choose not to cool areas of your home that you aren't using. This means your unit works less, uses less energy, and saves you money each month. If you’re considering installing a new unit, consider creating zones at the same time to increase your savings from day one.

Find Out How Much You Can Save

Replacing any older air conditioning system is guaranteed to save you money on your energy bills each month. To find out how much you can save, call for an energy audit today.

Comments (1)

Andrew Payne Realtor® Richmond VA Homes For Sale~804-938-5257~
Piedmont Real Estate - Richmond, VA
Richmond, VA, Real Estate, SRES®, NAR Green

Erik,

Having an energy audit is a great idea.  Air leaks can occur almost anywhere in the ductwork of an HVAC system as well as around doors and windows.

Apr 02, 2014 11:55 AM