Most central air conditioners will typically last somewhere around 15 years. If you have an AC unit that is over 20 years old, you should absolutely think about having it replaced as soon as possible. It is likely that your current unit is nearing the end of its lifespan. Additionally, replacing your old, outdated AC with a modern unit can also provide these other important benefits.
Better Efficiency and Lower Cooling Costs
Any new AC unit is almost guaranteed to be far more energy efficient compared with a 20-year-old unit. In Montana and the northern United States, all new AC units are required to be at least 14 SEER. If you have an AC that’s 20 years old, it may only be 10 SEER since this was the minimum requirement up until 2006. Compared to a 10 SEER unit, a 14 SEER AC will use at least 28% less energy. In most cases, the energy savings will be even greater since the energy efficiency of any AC unit tends to decline the older the unit gets. If you were to choose an even more efficient unit, such as an 18 SEER AC, you could potentially cut your yearly cooling costs nearly in half.
Improved Comfort
The effectiveness of AC units also tends to decrease with age, and this is another reason why it’s a good idea to replace your old, outdated unit. Any new unit you install will be much more effective in keeping your home cool on even the very hottest summer days.
Less Expensive Repairs
A 20-year-old AC unit is virtually guaranteed to use Freon, and repairing a unit that uses Freon can be extremely expensive. This is because the United States has banned the manufacture and import of Freon. The only way that Freon can still be used is if it is reclaimed from another system, and this has led to a huge shortage that has caused the price of Freon to skyrocket. Replacing your old unit can prevent this issue, and it can also save you money since the new unit will be far less likely to break down and need repairs.
Contact the Professionals
At General Sheet Metal, Inc., we’re proud to serve Kalispell and the surrounding areas and have been doing so since 1942. In addition to HVAC services, we offer sheet metal fabrication, indoor air quality solutions and countertop installation. For more information on our AC installation services, contact General Sheet Metal, Inc. today.
