Are you planning to upgrade your air conditioner this year? Before you make an HVAC purchase, consider the lifetime costs of the systems you’re looking at buying. Doing so will give you a better picture of the total amount you’ll pay out over the life of owning the system.
When you shop for an air conditioner, you’ll notice that each system has a label stating its efficiency and potential energy savings. You’ll want to pay close attention to this label, as efficiency and energy savings are one of the most significant cost factors.
Energy savings
In general, higher-efficiency equipment will net you a better return on your investment, because an air conditioner with a higher-rated seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) will drive energy savings higher each month. Higher-efficiency equipment also tends to utilize higher-quality, longer-lasting components that offer more in terms of home comfort.
Quality
Higher-efficiency systems that utilize higher-quality parts will generally come with a better warranty, so you’ll have better coverage if something should go wrong with your system.
Longer lasting
As long as you ensure that your new air conditioner is serviced year in and year out, those quality, better-performing parts will help the system last longer. And you’ll get a higher return on investment the longer your system lasts. Additionally, these types of parts, like a two-stage compressor, often require fewer repairs.
An example
Let’s take a look at an example to see how lifetime costs play out. When a compressor can operate at two speeds, a low speed for milder weather and a high speed for extreme temperatures, it can automatically adjust to weather demands.
A one-stage compressor can only operate at a high speed, using up more of its useful service life and consuming more energy in the process. However, with a two-stage system, you’ll save energy, it will last longer, and it will be able to comfortably condition your home—and better manage humidity in the process.
It pays to invest in higher-efficiency, higher-quality systems if you plan to upgrade your air conditioner. To find out more about lifetime costs, contact Roth Heating & Cooling today! We serve Portland metro area homeowners.
