Temperatures are already warming up, and many Florida residents area already starting to switch on their air conditioners for the first time this spring. If you have begun to use yours, hopefully you haven’t had any detrimental problems. If you have noticed that your aging air conditioner seems to be ready to retire however, then now could be the best time to upgrade.
Why Should I Upgrade?
In 2006, it was federally mandated that the manufacturing of air conditioning units with R-22 refrigerant in them become illegal. The reason for this is because R-22 has a very high potential to exacerbate ozone-depletion. As of 2010, the sale of new air-conditioning units containing this compound was banned as well. By upgrading your system, you’ll have an air conditioner that is much better for the environment.
That’s not all though: today’s air conditioning systems are much more efficient than those of the past. When you do decide to upgrade your system, be sure to observe the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) of the new unit. This rating measures cooling efficiency over the season. The higher this number is, the more efficient your system is. The minimum SEER before 2006 was 10, and now the minimum is 14. For the most efficiency, look for a unit with a SEER of 20 and above.
Other Considerations
You will want to make sure you have a professional install and correctly size your air conditioner. If you get too small of an air conditioning unit, then it will never cool down your home. If you get too big of an AC system on the other hand, then it will go through a process called short-cycling, which is significantly damaging to your air conditioner.
For an air conditioner replacement in Gulf Breeze, FL, don’t hesitate to call us at Kool Breeze of Northwest Florida, Inc.