Summer is fast approaching, which means that Tallahassee-area homeowners will be ramping up their air conditioning usage to ward off the increased heat and humidity. We will undoubtedly notice that increase in AC usage in our power bills, but it won’t be as dramatic as the increase in much of the rest of the state, given the average 14.7% year-over-year increase in rates between 2021 and 2022. Of course, with rampant inflation and a tremendous increase in the nation’s energy costs, our electric rates will inevitably soon rise. What can we do about it?
Well, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), Florida residents consume on average almost 1,100 kilowatt-hours per month, the sixth-highest electrical consumption rate in the country. The EIA also estimates that 27% of the state’s energy consumption is used for air conditioning, four times higher than the national average.
Thus, anything you do to cut your air conditioning usage might help you save on energy costs. But that option will not prove very comfortable with summertime’s high temperatures and humidity. Another option is to upgrade your air conditioning system. As the biggest electricity user in your home, it’s the one appliance that should be the most energy efficient as possible. Based on recent technological advancements, today’s AC systems can be 20-40 percent more efficient than those just 10-years old. They can be up to 50 percent more efficient than those even older.
The amount of money you might be able to save on an AC upgrade depends upon various factors, such as age and type of your current system, type of new system, thermostat settings, home insulation, and shading. The easiest way to determine what kind of savings you might be able to realize from an air conditioner upgrade is to talk to HVAC experts, such as those at Tallahassee’s Air Control Heating and Cooling. With more than 50 years of HVAC experience, we can give you seven other reasons to consider an AC upgrade for your home.
Decrease AC Noise
Older air conditioning systems tend to be noisier than newer systems. Not only is the mechanical equipment generally louder, but your older system may have been installed without proper attention to square footage, air and duct sealing, and the home’s weatherization. This typical historic lack of awareness to such details often led to the installation of oversized HVAC equipment. In turn, an oversized AC system tends to short-cycle, which causes it to cycle on and off more frequently. Yet fail to reach the most efficient cooling levels. The shorter cycles lead to an increase in on/off blower noises. It also wears down the equipment more quickly, which tends to make it louder.
Improve Air Quality
Newer air conditioning systems come with high-quality air filtration components. They help remove airborne particulates and allergens, dry up excess moisture, and impede mold growth. They also come with variable speed motors that promote better air circulation. This helps enhance air quality while also ensuring even temperatures throughout the house.
Boost Your Home’s Resale Value
Upgrading your HVAC system can increase your home’s value. The National Association of Realtors estimates that adding a new central air conditioning system can increase home values by up to 12 percent. Most home buyers will be impressed by homes with the latest, most efficient systems. In turn, they’ll be put off by homes sporting older HVAC systems or window AC units. This holds especially true if you’ve got your Tallahassee home on the market during the summer months.
Help Protect the Environment
By upgrading your AC system, you will be doing your part to help protect the environment. Department of Energy standards require that today’s HVAC systems meet newer efficiency standards that help reduce carbon monoxide emissions. For the highest efficient and eco-friendly systems, choose those with ENERGY STAR® certification.
Is It Just Time to Upgrade Your AC System?
In some cases, it might just be time to upgrade your air conditioning system. Like all mechanical equipment, HVAC systems have a lifespan. With proper maintenance, an AC’s average life expectancy is 15-20 years. You might need to think about an upgrade if your system is nearing that 15-year mark; earlier if it has not received regular maintenance. Other factors that could suggest that it’s time include:
- Lack of cold air
- Reduced air flows
- The need for frequent repairs
- Leakage or excessive moisture around the equipment
- Unusual noises such as grinding, rattling, banging, and squeaking
Finance Your Upgraded AC System
With easy financing options that do not rely on your existing home equity line, credit cards or bank account, Air Control Heating and Cooling gives you another reason to upgrade your air conditioning system. Learn more about our expert air conditioning upgrade and installation services, we’d be glad to consult with you. With the highest quality service in HVAC equipment sales, installation, service, and maintenance, in Tallahassee, Havana, Quincy, Monticello, and Crawfordville, you can contact us at (850) 562-1234.