In the heat of the Arizona summer, many air conditioners unfortunately hit their limit and fail. Yes, at Bruce’s Air Conditioning & Heating, we replace many units during June, July and August. Yet, there are significant benefits to replacing your unit during the off season.
From mid-October through April is the ideal time to replace your air conditioner for your home or business. There is often a faster installation time and no chance of dealing with unbearable indoor temperatures while a malfunctioning unit is out of commission.
Is Your Air Conditioner More Than 10 Years Old?
It’s impossible to predict when your air conditioner will stop cooling. While some will last for decades, others need to be replaced sooner. If you’re a homeowner, it’s a good idea to prepare yourself for the idea of a replacement once your air conditioner has hit 10 years old. Once you’re in the market for a new unit, it’s important to not only time it right, but also consider the following:
Choose the Right Unit Size
Not all air conditioners are created equal. What works for one home may be too much or too little for another. Before choosing a unit, you will want to obtain a load calculation from an experienced HVAC contractor. An industry professional will be able to determine the right size unit based on your home’s square footage, insulation and other factors.
Consider Energy Efficiency
Air conditioner efficiency is measured by the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER). All air conditioners must have a rating of at least 13 or higher. Energy-efficient units have a rating of 14 and above. Think about how much you want to pay (or save) on your monthly utility bills. This will help you determine the right SEER rating for your specific needs.
Don’t Forget Yearly Maintenance
The key to lengthening the lifespan of any air conditioner (or furnace, for that matter) is regular maintenance. Not only will failing to maintain your unit potentially void a manufacturer’s warranty, it can drastically speed up the need for a replacement. Air conditioners are too complex and costly to neglect. By taking preventive maintenance seriously, you can save yourself plenty of money on costly repairs and new installations, as well as eliminating the hassles of dealing with a failing unit.
Give yourself the gift of cool air by replacing your aging air conditioner this fall or winter. Call Bruce’s Air Conditioning & Heating today for a free estimate at 480-968-5652.
