Air conditioning is becoming increasingly popular, and about 64% of homes in Canada currently have an AC unit installed.
AC is ideal for keeping your home comfortable in the warmer months. One thing to bear in mind is that these systems degrade with time, and if yours isn’t performing as well as it used to, it might be time for a replacement. There are plenty of options available, and it’s important to make the right choice.
In this guide, we’ll go over some of the things you should consider before replacing an AC unit. Keep reading for more.
Size
This is perhaps the most important factor to consider when looking for a new air conditioning system. Regardless of any other factors, you need to make sure you get a unit that has a suitable capacity for your home.
The cooling capacity determines the size of a space that an air conditioner can cool. This is measured in British thermal units per hour (Btu/hr).
If your unit is too small, it won’t cool your home properly and you’ll be left with warm spots. Conversely, if it’s too large, it’s likely to cycle on and off more often than it should, which can cause parts to degrade faster than they should.
If your old system was the right size, you may be able to opt for the same. With that said, a brand-new unit will be more efficient.
For those who are uncertain about a suitable size, it’s best to speak with a professional air conditioning contractor. They can inspect your home and determine the most suitable size for you.
Efficiency
AC technology is always evolving, and as a result, newer models are typically more efficient than older ones. Air conditioners can use a lot of energy, so having one that’s efficient is ideal.
An energy-efficient AC can save you a lot of money on your monthly bills. Even if you pay a lot for your new air conditioner installation, you’ll start saving money each month. This can eventually offset the cost of the installation, making it a very worthwhile investment.
On top of this, an efficient unit is better for the environment. It will reduce your overall carbon footprint, meaning your new system doesn’t just benefit you, but the planet as a whole.
The SEER rating determines the efficiency of a system, so you can look at this when considering different options. You can also improve efficiency by implementing smart home technology.
You can set a smart thermostat to only come on at certain times if your home reaches a certain temperature. You’ll also be able to turn your AC off from anywhere using your smartphone. This is ideal for maximizing efficiency and minimizing wasted energy.
Reliability
This is another key factor when investing in any appliance. There’s not much point in installing a new AC unit if it’s quickly going to start breaking down and needing repairs.
It’s worth taking the time to look into different brands and models. Read reviews to see what other users think of the units they have.
This will help you narrow things down and give you an idea of what to expect. Having a high-quality air conditioning system can also increase your home value.
A professional AC company will also be able to help you here. They can recommend units that are known to be reliable so you’ll have an easier time deciding.
Keep in mind that maintenance is crucial for any AC system. If you don’t look after it, you’ll start experiencing issues. It’s good to establish a routine maintenance schedule to help keep your new system in good shape and maximize its lifespan.
Noise
This isn’t a huge factor for most people, but it’s still worth considering. Air conditioners can be quite noisy, so if you like your peace and quiet, this could affect your choice.
Most manufacturers publish the notice levels of their models. Bear in mind an AC unit will be louder when it’s running harder, so outside of the hottest period of the year this might not be too much of an issue.
Ducted vs Ductless
There are two climate control options when it comes to air conditioning systems. Both can be effective but in different situations.
Ducted
Ducted air conditioners are typically best for circulating air through large buildings. Air is drawn in from outside, cooled, and then moved through ducts to the various rooms in a home.
These are a cost-effective solution for cooling entire homes. They also don’t require as much upkeep as other systems and tend to run fairly quietly.
Ducted systems often include additional features that can be very useful. These may include:
- Temperature zoning
- Energy-saving modes
- Humidity and air quality regulation
You can use these to customize your experience and maintain your ideal environment. They’re typically quite efficient and you can control different zones independently.
On the downside, installation can be quite complex and costly. While they have a good degree of control, they’re not as flexible as ductless AC systems.
Ductless
A ductless system (also known as mini-splits) is a more compact option. It doesn’t require the same bulky ductwork, instead using a small outdoor compressor. This connects to multiple mounted indoor units which can cool your home.
Each of these units cools a specific area. This is ideal for renovations or as an addition to existing buildings. Units can be added without needing to remake the entire system.
The installation is typically simpler, involving less disruption to walls or ceilings. It also allows you to control the temperature in different rooms separately. Note that each unit will be quite noticeable, so this option can interfere with the interior design of your home.
Replacing an AC System
Before replacing an AC system, consider your options. Think about the capacity, efficiency, and reliability of your new system. The noise and type of system can also be important factors.
Canadian Climate Control Services provides professional HVAC services throughout Edmonton, AB, and the surrounding areas. Our technicians are fully qualified and we’ve been in business for over 25 years.
Contact us to get your free quote today.