Replacing your air conditioner (AC) can be a challenging modification to your home because there are several options and you want to choose one that will be sufficient for many years to come. There are important features that can sway your decision when replacing your AC.
Staging
Most of your decision about your next AC should hinge on discussions with your technician about the efficiency of a new system. Generally, the most efficient systems also have the highest upfront costs, so you may have to compromise on features. Part of the efficiency of a system will be whether it is one, two, or variable stages. A one-stage system is the most common, and it runs on full power until the unit turns off. This can lead to temperature irregularities and the feeling of it suddenly being either too hot or cold. A two-stage system is a better option than a one-stage system because it runs differently depending on the temperature. In the hottest weather, the two-stage system will run at full power, but in milder weather, it will run with less power. Variable stage systems stay on longer, but they are capable of running at multiple stages, depending on the temperature.
Existing Ductwork
Your existing ductwork will need to be inspected and, in some cases, repaired or replaced, before you can have your new AC installed. Some issues that need to be addressed are leaks in the ductwork. When there are leaks, even small one, it means you are losing cool air that could otherwise be used to cool your home. Smaller leaks may only need to be patched, but larger ones will likely need to have the ductwork replaced. Other considerations include clogs in the ductwork. Dust and debris can make their way into the ductwork, preventing air from moving freely. The last part of the ductwork you should consider is the air vents. Modifying the existing air vents can be a significant investment, but it may be worth the price, especially for air vents that are too small to adequately cool a large room.
Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats can seem like another unnecessary gadget, but they have many advantages in improving the efficiency of your system and helping keep your electric bill affordable. Smart thermostats can be controlled through an app on your phone or another device. The thermostat can be integrated into your home wireless network, so it may be used with voice-command systems. When your thermostat is available at the touch of a button, it will encourage you to make adjustments to the temperature to avoid wasting energy and money. Some thermostats also remember your air conditioning history, such as the set temperature at different times of day, and can automatically adjust throughout the day.
There are several features you need to consider when you are in the market for an air conditioning replacement. Carefully weighing your choices will improve your satisfaction with your system for its lifetime.
What was the first thing you did when you got up this morning?
If you answered "go to the bathroom," "get a drink of water," or "brush my teeth," then it's important to realize the role that a plumber has already played in your day. The plumber who installed your plumbing made that morning routine possible! Some other plumbers may have worked on the system over the years, also contributing to your experience. Plumbers have a bigger impact on our daily lives than we often realize. In fact, that's one reason we write this blog — to make our readers more aware of their plumbing.