Purchasing a new air conditioning unit is a big investment. That’s why it is important for homeowners to choose the right type, size and SEER rating to ensure that their new HVAC functions properly throughout its intended lifespan. Homeowners must also learn the proper ways to maintain their units to last for years to come. Not sure where to begin? Start with what to consider in an AC before making your purchase. At AC Designs, our experienced technicians are here to educate you on the different types of long-lasting AC units and how to take care of them.
How do you choose the right AC unit for installation?
- Select the correct system size based on your home’s square footage, insulation, and layout
- Look for a high SEER rating to improve energy efficiency and reduce long term operating costs
- Consider the type of system, such as central air, heat pump, or ductless mini split
- Evaluate warranty coverage and expected equipment lifespan
- Ensure professional AC installation to guarantee proper airflow, refrigerant charge, and system performance
Finding the Right AC Unit Size and Type for Your Home
When shopping for a new unit, there are multiple types to consider to ensure the system is right for your home. Choose from ducted central air systems, mini-split systems or window units based on your budget and the size of your home.
You should also consider additional add-ons that your home may require, such as dehumidifiers to improve indoor air quality. Some homes may also benefit from REME halo units to reduce pollutants and pathogens or UV germicidal lights to remove contaminants.
Ducted Central-Air Systems
Ducted systems evenly distribute air throughout your home using ducts and are known to save both money and energy. While installation can be expensive, ducted central-air systems make it easy to control your entire home’s temperature and are a dependable, long-lasting option. If your current setup is aging, here’s when to replace your AC versus investing in repairs.
Mini-Split Systems
Mini-split systems, or ductless ac units, are more affordable options that do not require full-sized ducts to cool your home. Instead, cool air is distributed through multiple indoor units that connect to a master compressor. With the ability to heat or cool specific rooms as needed, this option can be more energy efficient than ducted systems.
Window Units
While window units are the easiest AC system to install, consider the size of your home before choosing this option. Bigger homes typically require several units, which can result in an unnecessarily high expense. Multiple units operating at once can also result in abnormally high electric bills each month.
Choosing the Best SEER Rating for Long-Term Efficiency
The SEER rating of your AC unit can have a significant impact on how efficiently it operates. If your unit isn’t running effectively due to a low SEER rating, you may encounter a greater need for repairs, which can shorten your system’s lifespan.
Seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings are calculated by dividing your home’s annual cooling output during the cooling season by the total electric energy input. Air conditioning units with higher SEER ratings often use less energy to cool your home effectively, which results in lower monthly bills.
The minimum SEER rating for air conditioners is currently 13, and most modern units fall between 13 and 21. In 2023, the U.S. Department of Energy will raise the minimum efficiency requirements for central air conditioners and air-source heat pumps.
The minimum SEER rating for AC units and heat pumps is expected to increase from 13 to 14 in northern states and 14 to 15 in southern states. This increase in efficiency will allow homeowners to use less electricity for the same amount of cooling.
Proven Ways to Make Your AC Unit Last Longer
The best way to ensure your unit is long-lasting is to ensure that it is properly maintained. It is important to replace air filters frequently and schedule regular AC maintenance at least once a year to check for inefficiencies. If problems persist, ask yourself should you replace the AC or continue with repairs.
Homeowners should also clean their unit’s ducts to ensure that the system is operating properly without blockages from debris or other particles. Check for leaks often to catch them early and avoid costly damages if left unattended.
AC Design’s preferred customer maintenance program can provide you with all services necessary to keep your unit functioning efficiently. We offer two pre-scheduled system checks per year, in addition to priority scheduling and replacement, after-hours emergency service, discounts and more.
When investing in a new, long-lasting AC unit, consider the needs of your budget, family and home. No matter the system you choose, it is important to perform regular maintenance to ensure that your new unit is prepared to last for years. Schedule a maintenance appointment with the experienced AC technicians at AC Designs today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What factors should I consider when choosing a long lasting AC unit?
Answer: When selecting a long lasting AC unit, consider the system’s build quality, efficiency rating, and proper sizing for your home. Choosing a unit that matches your cooling needs and is installed correctly helps reduce strain on components, improving durability and overall performance in Florida’s demanding climate.
Question: How important is proper AC sizing for longevity?
Answer: Proper sizing is critical to long term performance. An oversized unit may cycle on and off too frequently, while an undersized system can run constantly. Both situations create excess wear and tear, which shortens the lifespan of the equipment and reduces overall efficiency.
Question: Does regular maintenance help extend the life of an AC unit?
Answer: Yes, routine maintenance plays a major role in system longevity. Regular inspections, cleaning, and tune ups help identify small issues before they become costly problems. Consistent maintenance also ensures the system runs efficiently, reducing stress on key components over time.
Question: Are higher efficiency AC systems more durable?
Answer: Higher efficiency systems are often built with advanced technology and improved components, which can contribute to reliable performance. However, durability depends on proper installation, regular maintenance, and correct sizing. Efficiency alone does not guarantee a longer lifespan without proper care.
Question: How does installation quality impact AC lifespan?
Answer: Professional installation directly affects how long your AC unit will last. Incorrect installation can lead to airflow issues, refrigerant problems, and premature wear. A properly installed system operates more smoothly, experiences less strain, and is more likely to deliver dependable performance for years.
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