Is Your Central Air Conditioning Out-Of-Date?

When was the last time you replaced your central air conditioning system? If you answered ten years or more, or never, it might be time to consider investing in a new system. Air conditioning systems have drastically improved in the last decade, making them more energy efficient and healthier for the environment. While the initial cost to replace your old system may seem high, your energy savings over the next few years can make it worth the  investment. 

Changes In Air Conditioning Efficiency

The differences in newer air conditioning units versus models made only 10-15 years ago are substantial. SEER, or seasonal efficiency energy ratio, is the most effective way to determine the efficiency of an air conditioning unit. While many air conditioners manufactured a decade ago had a SEER rating of 10 or less, units sold today can have a SEER rating of 20 or more, with the standard for residential systems having a minimum of 13. This means the efficiency of a new air conditioning system can be over double that of older models, with energy savings of 20-40% off monthly utility bills. This translates to significant savings, costing homeowners less each year to cool their homes while helping to conserve natural resources in the environment. In warmer climates, these savings can be even greater if temperatures remain high for more months out of the year. 

If you are unsure what your current air conditioning system’s rating is, or want more information on the newer models available, call your local HVAC service company. They can help you determine the efficiency of your current system and compare its rating to the newer units that can be installed today. It’s worth taking the time to research your options, as it could save you plenty off your energy bills in the years to come. 

Posted on behalf of James Smith, ClimateSmith LLC

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Why Is My Central Air Conditioner So Noisy?

Everyone enjoys the cool, dry comfort that central air conditioner or heat pump system brings to a home, but if you have a traditional split system, sometimes the noise from the outdoor unit (called a condenser) can be annoyingly loud.  If the condenser has been located outside of a bedroom, it can even interfere with your sleep.

All condensers make some noise although some brands are quieter than others.  If you have an older, inefficient unit this may be a good time to upgrade to a quiet new energy efficient system.  Depending on your old system and how often you run your air conditioner, you may be surprised how quickly the savings on your energy bills will cover the cost of the new unit.  Meanwhile, you will be enjoying your quiet new air conditioner.

If a new central air conditioning system is not in the budget for this year, have your noisy air conditioner serviced and inspected by your HVAC technician.  You could have a bent fan blade striking the housing or a piece of the sheet metal housing could be loose and vibrating.

If the condenser checks out, you may need to investigate other options such as relocating the condenser to a less obtrusive spot or building an enclosure around the unit.  If you opt for the enclosure, be sure to allow plenty of space around the condenser for adequate ventilation and so it can be serviced.  A partial enclosure that is open on the side away from the house can often do the trick.