With only a few short months to go before summer kicks into full gear, now’s the perfect time to think about upgrading your air conditioning system. A lot goes into choosing the unit that’s right for your home, however, with comfort and long-term savings at stake. Here are some important points to consider before reaching out to your local AC installation professional.

3 Tips for Upgrading Your AC Unit

1. Choose the Type

When it comes to AC installation, you have two main types of units to choose from. Central air conditioners are complex systems consisting of an outdoor unit, an indoor air handler that blows and cools the air, and a network of ducts in your home. These systems are able to keep an entire home at a consistent and cool temperature, but the ductwork required can be expensive and invasive if your home isn’t already properly equipped.

Ductless air conditioners, on the other hand, are true to their name—they don’t require any type of ductwork to cool a space. These smaller AC units consist of an outside compressor and one or more blowers mounted on the interior walls. Depending on the size of the home, they can achieve an environment similar to central air. Typically, however, only four handlers can be connected to one compressor. If your home has a lot of square footage, you might need to invest in an additional compressor and more handler units.

2. Consider Energy Efficiency

One of the best benefits of upgrading your current AC system is the boost in energy efficiency. Although any modern unit will be more energy-efficient than older models, there are still some things you should consider before moving forward with an AC installation. Always upgrade every component of a system at one time. The different parts are meant to work together, and if one is older than the rest, your system won’t be running at peak efficiency. When shopping for an energy-efficient system, pay attention to the seasonal energy efficiency rating (SEER). Modern units are required to have a SEER of at least 14, but several systems have higher ratings. The higher the number, the more money you’ll save down the road.

3. Think Long-Term

It’s easy to focus on the short-term relief a new AC unit can provide, but it’s advantageous to keep the grand scheme in mind. It might be an expensive investment to upgrade to an effective and efficient system, but it can be financially beneficial in the long run. Consider how much money you’ll save every month and year thanks to the increased efficiency. When you do the math, the investment can become much easier to see as a positive.

If you’re ready to upgrade your air conditioning system, the AC installation experts of Robert L. Shealy Heating & Air Conditioning are ready to get the job done. With more than 50 years of industry experience in West Columbia, Columbia, and Lexington, SC, the licensed, insured, and bonded company takes pride in handling every repair, installation, and tuneup with skill and exceptional attention to detail. And with financing options available along with free estimates on every replacement unit, it’s never been easier to get a more comfortable home in Richland or Lexington County. Visit the website for more information on air conditioning services or call (803) 796-1923 to speak with a friendly representative today.