| By :
Stephen Daniels
The old adage goes, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it." While this idea might seem like common sense, it's not always true when it comes to air conditioners. Even if your old model seems to be working properly, recent advancements in technology have made central air conditioning units more energy efficient and effective than ever before - plus, a replacement might not be as expensive as you think. Older air conditioners are remarkably inefficient when compared to the latest AC units. A newer air conditioning unit is up to 90 percent more cost-efficient, which can translate into huge savings on your energy bill. Such a unit will pay for itself over time, and also make your home more environmentally friendly. If your AC unit or heat pump is more than ten years old, or your boiler or furnace is more than 15 years old, it is costing you more money than if you upgraded to a new Energy Star-compliant model. Even if your air conditioner is only five years old, there have been considerable increases in efficiency that may make a replacement worthwhile. Because of the improvements to Energy Star AC units on the market now, both federal and state governments are offering tax incentives for homeowners who invest in Energy Star rated appliances, including air conditioners. By upgrading to an energy-efficient HVAC unit you can claim up to 30 percent of the amount you paid in the form of a tax credit. In addition, some states are offering grants to home owners who upgrade right now. Be sure to check for the Energy savings site relevant to your state to see what types of incentives are being offered right now. There is no telling how long all these grants and tax credits will be around. If your furnace is aging as well as your central air conditioning unit, you may opt to replace them both with a single, highly efficient heat pump. Heat pumps both cool and warm your home by moving heat rather than creating it, and are among the most efficient types of HVAC units available. Be aware though that if you live in areas of extreme cold or heat, a heat pump may not be the ideal way to keep your home comfortable. Before investing in a new central air conditioning unit or a heat pump, it's a good idea to consult with an electrician or plumber that specializes in these services. They can check your current unit's condition and age, and recommend whether or not replacement would save you sufficient money on your bill to be worth it. In addition, the technician will be able to suggest the best size and type of unit for your home. Another consideration is whether or not the ductwork in your home is adequate to handle the size or type of unit you might be considering. If you are ready to replace your air conditioner, make sure you hire a fully certified installer. Expert installation is necessary to ensure correct operation of your unit and maximum cost savings on your energy bill. Talk to the installer about warranties and an annual checkup of your unit to ensure its continuing efficiency and effectiveness.
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