If your Texas home is equipped with central air conditioning, consider yourself lucky. Central air is a great way to stay cool, especially during our long, hot Texas summer. Many homeowners have basic questions about their central air conditioning, so we’ve taken the liberty of addressing some below.
When Is Replacement Necessary?
Air conditioning systems are well-built, and with proper maintenance, you should expect yours to last more than 12-15 years. If your A/C unit is nearing this range, or if you’ve been noticing a drop in efficiency evidenced by high energy bills, replacement may be needed. The good news is that newer A/Cs backed by the federal Energy Star program are much more efficient than older systems.
What Are the Traits of a Good A/C?
Your best bet is to purchase an A/C that is as efficient as possible, based on your budget. Also make sure that you choose a system that’s the proper size for your home. An oversized cooling system will waste energy, and not provide even cooling or proper dehumidification. An undersized A/C will struggle on the hottest days.
How Much Will a New A/C Cost?
This is hard to answer, because several factors will determine the cost. The size of the system required by your home is one factor, while the efficiency of the system is another. If you get the cheapest A/C available, you’ll save money in the short-term but it will use more energy and likely have performance issues.
How Do You Replace Your Current System?
You’ll want to hire a trusted and qualified HVAC contractor for the job. In addition to replacing the system itself, they may recommend ductwork modifications and a new thermostat. Ideally, your technician will evaluate the energy efficiency of your home, and recommend improvements on such issues as insulation, windows and air sealing.
How Long Will a New A/C Last?
Air conditioning systems typically will last between 12 and 15 years, especially if they are well-maintained.
For more expert advice on central air conditioning or any other home comfort questions, please contact the professionals at Bill Joplin’s Air Conditioning & Heating. We’ve been serving the HVAC needs of McKinney, Frisco, Allen and the surrounding areas since 1978.
