Jul 8, 2014

5 Important Questions to Ask Before Replacing Your Home AC System



You can't use the same AC unit forever - eventually it will break down and you will need to purchase a new system. It isn't so much an issue of obsolescence - new technologies emerge and make HVAC systems better. So, if your old system is reaching the end of its life, it may be a blessing in disguise - you may be able to install an HVAC system that is far better than the system you have now. But before you replace your AC, you want to ask yourself a number of questions to know if you are really ready to update your air conditioning system. Here are five important questions to ask before replacing your home AC system.

1.   Why do I need to replace my AC unit? Most of the time, you want to replace your air conditioner if it gets to be a certain age - past the ten-year mark and you are probably better off investing in a new unit. Also, your AC may be making some noises that connote the end may be near. It is important to know some of the common AC noises and what the cause may be. For instance, if your AC is making a continual shredding sound, it means your motor is about to burn out - you may as well replace the whole unit.
2.   Can you keep the ductwork? In some cases, you may not need to replace the entire AC unit - you may be able to keep the ductwork. In most cases, your AC system will be attached to a complicated link of ducts that travel inside the walls of your home. Removing the ductwork is often a challenge, so it may be smarter to just leave it.
3.   Is the HVAC contractor qualified? Before the actual install of the unit, you want to make sure that you hire a specialized HVAC specialist to complete the job. When it comes down to it, installing an AC system is a tricky job - you don't want to hire someone that isn't qualified or that doesn't have his or her license. These are standard procedures before you get to the actual install of the unit.
4.   Should I go with a system that is similar to my old system? In most cases, you want to go with a system that is similar to your previous system, because there is a good chance that your home was built around that particular system. If you go with a new system, you may have to pay a lot of money in installation costs. For instance, if you go for a geothermal system or a solar system, you may have a large install bill.
5.   Can I get an energy efficient air conditioning system? When it comes to down to it, air conditioners are not that eco-friendly, but if you focus your search efforts, you will be able to find a replacement air conditioner that has been tested for energy efficiency. You may also be able to find a system that uses a more eco-conscience fuel source. In the end, reducing your impact is also contingent on how often you blast the air conditioner.

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