Deciding whether or not to replace your old air conditioner can be a big decision. If your AC unit is still operational, at what point do you choose to take out your old AC and install a newer, more efficient model?
You may be wondering, “How much will a new AC unit save me?”. To help you make an informed choice, here’s a rundown of whether or not new air conditioners are more efficient than older models, the differences in energy use, and how you can choose the most efficient air conditioner for your home and your situation.
Are new air conditioners more efficient than older models?
Advancements in technology and an increased focus on energy efficiency have led to significant improvements in the performance of air conditioning units and systems.
A frequent question that arises is “Do older AC units use more electricity?”. The answer is: usually, yes.
An air conditioner older than five years is likely designed for less efficiency and uses less effective components. These parts and structures will impact the performance of your air conditioning, often resulting in higher energy consumption and inefficient cooling performance.
Do all air conditioners have the same level of efficiency?
Not all air conditioners are created equal. In the United States, the efficiency of an air conditioner is expressed by its SEER rating.
SEER Ratings
When answering the question, “Are new air conditioners more efficient?”, it’s important to consider the SEER rating of newer models. Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) ratings measure the cooling efficiency of an air conditioner.
Over time, SEER ratings on newer models improve, with the intention to promote energy efficiency and reduce the emissions that impact climate change.
SEER ratings are calculated by dividing the cooling output of an air conditioner during a typical cooling season by the total electric energy input over the same period. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the air conditioner.
The cooling output is measured in British thermal units (BTUs), and the energy output is measured in watt-hours.
How much will a new AC unit save me?
How much you can save with a new AC unit will depend on your old unit, the replacement model, how much you use your air conditioning, and the cost of electricity where you live.
Estimates vary from 10% to 50% savings on your air conditioning costs per year. However, the Department of Energy says you can save between 20% and 40% on your annual energy costs.
How are newer air conditioning systems more efficient?
Modern air conditioning units and systems have a variety of features designed to enhance efficiency. These can include:
1. Improved insulation and sealing: Newer air conditioner systems usually have better insulation and improved sealing of ducts to minimize air leaks. This, in turn, reduces air loss and maximizes cooling efficiency.
2. Improved airflow design: The advance in airflow design and fan technology leads to more efficient distribution of cool air throughout spaces, leading to higher comfort levels and lower energy consumption.
3. Inverter or variable-speed compressors: These compressors can adjust their speed according to cooling demands. This ability allows the system to operate at lower capacities when full cooling power is not required. This helps to reduce the amount of energy used by the system.
4. Programmable and smart thermostats: Most new air conditioning systems have smart or programmable thermostats that allow users to schedule and control their cooling settings more efficiently. This optimizes energy use by adjusting temperatures based on occupancy patterns.
5. Energy savings settings: Modern air conditioners often feature energy-efficiency or eco-friendly environments that limit energy consumption without compromising the comfort of your home.
The benefits of replacing your older air conditioning unit
There are multiple benefits to replacing your older AC with a newer model. These benefits include the following.
Energy efficiency
In terms of new AC vs old AC efficiency, older air conditioners are generally less energy efficient than more recent models. Modern units have more advanced technology and better energy efficiency ratings. These models are designed to consume less electricity while providing the same, if not a higher, level of performance than their older counterparts.
Repair and maintenance cost savings
When we talk about old AC vs new AC power consumption, if you have an older air conditioning unit, it’s more likely to break down and require repairs. An older AC unit’s repair and maintenance costs can increase significantly as time passes.
If you replace your AC with a new unit or system, you will not only benefit from better build quality and a lower tendency to malfunction, but you will also have a warranty covering any repairs required during your first year of ownership. This is significant when considering AC costs.
Increase in home value
Replacing your old AC system with a modern, more energy-efficient system can increase the value of your home. When negotiating the sale price, people looking to buy a home often consider the HVAC system’s age.
Further savings with tax credits and incentives
When thinking about ‘how much a new AC unit will save me’, consider also any tax benefits. By installing a new AC, you can benefit from tax credits and incentives, such as those available under the Inflation Reduction Act.
Reduce environmental impact
A new, more energy-efficient AC unit is often more environmentally friendly. Here’s specifically how.
• Reduced carbon footprint: The lower energy consumption of newer AC units contributes to a decrease in carbon footprint.
• Refrigerants: Newer AC systems utilize less environmentally-damaging refrigerants than older ones. Modern units use hydrofluorocarbon-free refrigerants, which have a lower potential for environmental damage.
• Potential for renewable energy integration: Installing new air conditioning allows you to upgrade to renewable energy sources, such as solar power. By installing a new AC with a solar power system, you can offset most, if not all, of your energy consumption with renewable energy.
A new AC is more efficient and saves you more
The answer to “How much will a new AC unit save me?” is actually a lot. New AC units are more energy efficient than older models, and replacing your existing air conditioning with a new model will reduce the amount of energy you use and lower your environmental impact.
Need your AC unit replaced? Contact Diamondback today!