Is your AC unit making strange noises? Or, has it stopped cooling your house like it used to? These are just two of several indicators that it might be time to think about an AC replacement.
In this blog, Doornbos Heating & Air Conditioning will talk about when it’s the right time to replace your AC unit, how to know if you really need a new one, and why getting a new AC can be a good choice.
Doornbos has been delivering quality products and services to homeowners in the Chicago area since 1927! No other HVAC service company is as knowledgeable and experienced as Doornbos. For a new AC installation or AC repair, a call to Doornbos is the only one to make.
When Should You Replace Your AC Unit?
How Old Is Your AC?
The first thing to think about is the age of your AC unit. Most AC units last about 10 to 15 years. If your AC is older than that, it might be time to start looking for a new one. Older units are not as efficient, which means they use more electricity and can increase your bills.
Is It Breaking Down Often?
If you’re calling for repairs more than once a year, or the cost of individual repairs is adding up, it might be cheaper in the long run to just replace the AC unit. Frequent breakdowns are a sign that your AC is getting old and worn out. Plus, since the cost of repairs add up over time, a new AC unit will pay for itself in no time.
Does It Use R22 Refrigerant?
Older AC units often use a refrigerant called R22, which is not being made anymore because it’s bad for the environment. If your AC uses R22, you’ll find that it’s getting very expensive to refill if it leaks. This is a big sign that it’s time to replace your AC unit with a newer, more eco-friendly model.
Benefits of Replacing Your AC Unit
Lower Energy Bills
As we said, new AC units are much more efficient than older ones. This means they use less electricity to cool your home, which usually means lower energy bills. Even though replacing your AC unit may be a big expense upfront, the savings on your bills can help make up for it over time.
Better Cooling
A new AC unit can cool your home more evenly and more comfortably. If some rooms in your house are too hot while others are too cold, a new AC might solve this problem. Plus, newer models are better at controlling humidity, which can make your home feel cooler even on hot days.
More Eco-Friendly
New AC units are designed to be more environmentally friendly. They use refrigerants that are safer for the ozone layer and have better technology to reduce energy use. By replacing your AC unit, you’re not just helping yourself, you’re also helping the planet.
How to Choose a New AC Unit
Don’t let thoughts of needing a new AC unit overwhelm you. Doornbos employs the most highly trained technicians in the area. One of our professional Comfort Specialists will assess your current system and your home’s layout and design to figure out which options are best for your needs. The final choice of which best fits with your budget is up to you. To help even more, Doornbos offers financing options to approved homeowners.
Size Matters
It’s important to get an AC unit that’s the right size for your home. If it’s too big, it will turn on and off too often, which can wear it out faster and increase your bills. If it’s too small, it won’t be able to cool your home effectively. A professional can help you choose the right size based on the size of your home and other factors.
Look for Energy Efficiency
When shopping for a new AC unit, look for one with a high SEER rating. SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, and the higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the unit. This can help you save money on energy bills. Recent changes in the HVAC industry now require a higher SEER rating based on the climate in which you live. Call Doornbos to learn more and find out if an AC unit with a higher SEER is best for you.
Consider Smart Features
Many new AC units come with smart features like programmable thermostats or apps that let you control the AC from your phone. These features can help you use your AC more efficiently and save money on energy bills.
Schedule a In-Home Consultation with Doornbos
Deciding to replace your AC unit is a big decision, but it can also be a great investment. By choosing a new, efficient model, you can enjoy better cooling, lower bills, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re doing something good for the environment. If your AC is old, breaks down often, or uses R22 refrigerant, it’s probably time to start thinking about an AC replacement.
Contact Doornbos Heating & Air Conditioning to schedule an in-home consultation today with one of our Comfort Specialists.