Tips For Efficient, Convenient, and Affordable AC Replacement

You should start thinking about air conditioner (AC) replacement long before you need it. The AC installation process determines the system's efficiency and installation budget. Your replacement preparation also determines the installation experience. Below are tips to help you enjoy and benefit from your next AC installation.

Prepare in Advance

You should know the signs of a failing AC to prepare for its replacement. Otherwise, the need for AC replacement might catch you off-guard and force you to install it quickly and possibly make a mistake. For example, your current system might suffer a catastrophic malfunction during a hot winter season. Preparing for AC installation gives you time to:

• Choose the best system for your house
• Choose an AC contractor
• Time your AC installation right

You will soon need a new system if the current one has served you for a dozen years or so, keeps breaking down, or is increasingly inefficient. At that time, start researching the available systems since HVAC technologies continually change. That way, you get full control of your AC replacement.

Mind the Running Costs

AC replacement is a big-budget project, so it makes sense that people focus on purchase and installation costs. However, don't ignore the running or ownership costs since you will be with the AC for years. Here are a couple of things that affect an AC's cost of ownership.

Efficiency

ACs run on electricity. AC efficiency is the ratio of electricity consumption to its cooling output. Low efficiency means more electricity consumption than a higher efficiency for the same cooling output. More electricity consumption means higher running costs.

According to energy.gov, you cannot go wrong with an Energy Star-rated system. Such systems are about 15% more efficient than standard models.

Reliability

AC repairs cost money. A reliable AC suffers few breakdowns and doesn't cost much in terms of repair costs. Reviews from sites like consumerreports.org can help you determine the frequency of breakdowns. You can also consult your AC contractor for advice.

Involve a Professional from the Start

Involve a professional AC contractor the minute you start the replacement plan. The contractor can even help you understand your options. A DIY installation might leave you with an inefficient and improperly designed system. Sure, you can call a contractor even after starting a DIY installation, but that might be costlier in terms of resources and time.

For example, the contractor may wish to redesign your system, especially if you have redesigned the house since you installed the current system. Say you knocked down a wall after your last AC installation. The contractor may want to incorporate the new layout in the new AC's design and sizing to make the most of the new space.

Upgrade the System

If you have used your AC for a long time, say a decade or so, chances are high that your system is a little outdated. Use the replacement as an opportunity to get the most up-to-date system, at least for the features you need. Consider things like:

• Smart thermostats that automatically learn and implement your AC usage
• Occupancy sensors that automatically trigger cooling in occupied rooms
• Quiet systems that you can barely hear when running
• Zoning systems that allow independent cooling of different rooms

In addition, you don't have to replace cooling systems like-for-like; you can switch to a completely different system. For example, you can switch from a heat pump to a central AC.

Hiring the right contractor is the first step to a great AC replacement process. Malone Heating & Air has incredible AC experience since we have been in the business since 1980. Contact us for AC installation and other HVAC services. We guarantee you exceptional work by our factory-trained HVAC professionals.