The Importance of Maintaining Your HVAC System in the USA

Recently, our two central air conditioning units stopped cooling, transforming our home into a stifling sauna. This prompted us to call three different HVAC companies for inspection. Their findings were consistently alarming:

• ❗️ One air conditioner had a completely failed compressor, meaning it was out of commission.
• ❗️ The other unit was still repairable, but it required multiple parts replacement. With over ten years of use, it was likely to fail again soon! (The engineers mentioned that due to the local high temperatures, household air conditioners typically last around 10-12 years.)

‼️ Ultimately, both systems needed to be replaced!

Price Quotes for New AC Units

We received quotes for new AC systems that would match our current setup, coming in at:

• ⚠️ $35,000
• ⚠️ $35,000
• ⚠️ $40,000

Important Considerations When Replacing Your AC

1. Ensure the quote includes all aspects: removal of old units, transportation, installation, permits, testing, and all new parts including indoor and outdoor units and metal ducting.
2. Understand the warranty offered: typically 10 years on the system, lifetime coverage on core components, and labor warranty varies from 1-3 years, with support for inspections within the first year.
3. Confirm brand and model: it’s advisable to choose mainstream brands for easier maintenance and availability of parts; comparing multiple recommendations is best.
4. Check the SEER rating: the higher the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER), the more you save on your electric bill. A new system with a SEER rating of 15+ is recommended.
5. Avoid unnecessary interest payments: financing options like 0% interest for 18-24 months can be beneficial. Just make sure to read the terms carefully, as some companies like Home Depot may offer credit card financing discounts.
6. Negotiate the estimate: many contractors may offer at least a 10% discount!

Additional Measures to Enhance Efficiency

Having an air conditioning system is just the beginning; proper insulation and ventilation are also crucial. Consider implementing:

• Radiant Barrier: This layer reflects heat and reduces thermal radiation, lowering electric bills.
• Insulation: Essential for maintaining comfortable temperatures, insulation blocks heat transfer and prevents cold air or heat from escaping.
• Ventilation: A good ventilation system eliminates hot air and humidity, which is vital to keeping your home cool in summer and warm in winter.

This AC replacement cost us nearly the price of a used car! It’s time to take maintenance seriously to ensure these units last as long as possible.

Expert Tips for Long-Term Care of Your HVAC System

1. Change filters regularly (every 2-3 months) during peak usage times, and occasionally clean the vents.
2. Schedule an annual checkup with a professional HVAC technician to clean the condensate pan, drainage line, check refrigerant levels, and ensure the fan is working properly.
3. Keep outdoor units free of leaves and debris to facilitate ventilation and, if possible, rinse the heat exchanger for faster cooling.
4. Avoid setting room temperatures too low and consider using fans for better airflow.
5. When leaving home for the day, you can turn off the AC; if away for more than half a day, briefly adjust the temperature to match the outdoor conditions. There’s no need to keep the AC running during short outings like grocery shopping.

Conclusion

Replacing your HVAC system can be a significant investment, but with the right knowledge and maintenance, your new units can serve you efficiently and effectively for years to come. With careful planning and smart tips, you can enjoy comfort in your home while managing costs effectively. Stay cool! ❄️🔥

#CentralAirConditioning #ACInstallation #LifeInAmerica #AirConditioning