AC Replacement

AC Replacement

AC Replacement. With rising energy bills, inconsistent temperatures, and other factors at play, property owners need to stay ahead when it comes to their HVAC systems. AC replacement shouldn’t be a last-minute decision–at SmartHouse, we’ll guide you through the entire process, helping you find the unit that will save you money and improve your efficiency. You can reach out to us now at 314-648-3162, text us at 314-310-2242, or schedule an appointment online to learn more about replacing your air conditioning unit and staying cool during the warmer months.

AC Replacement, Repair, & Maintenance in St. Louis

The most common reasons an AC unit may be underperforming are dirty air filters, a blocked condenser, a refrigerant leak, or your unit has just aged out. With the exception of aging, many of these issues can be avoided with regular maintenance and servicing instead of full-system replacement.

Replacing your AC system is a significant decision, and several factors may lead homeowners to consider this option. Our expert project managers and technicians can help you determine the best course of action for your needs.

Why Consider AC Replacement for Your St. Louis Home?

The only time you would need to replace your AC system is if it’s broken and can no longer be repaired due to parts no longer being accessible. But there are many reasons why a homeowner might choose to replace their AC instead of sticking with their existing one:

• Lifespan and Age: AC units typically have a lifespan of about 20 years if well-maintained. Once an AC unit reaches the end of its lifespan, it becomes more prone to breakdowns and less efficient. Many units can work well after 20 years, but upgrading toa more advanced, energy-efficient one may align more closely with a homeowner’s goals.
• Major Component Failure: If a significant component of your AC system fails, it might be more cost-effective in the long run to invest in a new, energy-efficient unit rather than paying for extensive repairs.
• Frequent Repairs: Even without a major component failure, it may also be more cost-effective to replace your AC if you’re constantly scheduling repair calls.
• Increased Energy Bills: If you find yourself spending more than usual on utility bills, this may be a sign that your central air unit is due for replacement. Newer units are designed to be more energy efficient than older models. Upgrading to a newer unit can
  save you on utility bills, provide better air control, and ensure your AC doesn’t break down in the middle of a hot day.
• Incorrect Sizing: AC units need to be correctly sized in order to reliably cool a home. If you’ve made home additions or changes over the years, your current AC may be the wrong size for your home. In some cases, the AC unit will be the right size, but the
  ductwork is not sized properly to match the unit’s output.
• Refrigerant Phase-Out: Some refrigerants are being phased out due to environmental regulations. If reducing your household’s carbon footprint is important to you, you may consider replacing your AC with one that meets new environmental standards.
• Tax Credits and Rebates: Homeowners may choose to replace an AC unit to take advantage of available tax credits and rebates which help reduce or offset the upfront costs of installing a new unit.
• Environmental Considerations: Replacing an old AC unit with a modern, energy-efficient model can significantly reduce the environmental impact of your home. Newer units use environmentally friendly refrigerants and operate more efficiently, leading to lower energy consumption and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

The most proactive thing you can do to avoid replacement is to schedule regular HVAC maintenance to make sure your systems are operating correctly at optimal levels. You don’t want to be caught in the middle of summer with a malfunctioning air conditioner.

A system that is even moderately maintained may benefit from something as simple as a new drain line, thermostat, or other mechanical fixes that can prolong its functionality. Property owners may choose to replace an AC unit if they are performing other updates on a home and want to consider long-term gains and efficiency over time while taking advantage of tax credits and rebates. Upgrading to a newer, more efficient model can also enhance indoor air quality, provide better humidity control, and reduce the overall environmental impact of your home.

Choosing the Right Cooling System for Your Home

There are two product categories when you are considering replacing your whole home cooling system. Our team of project managers help homeowners find the best cooling system that fits their home, goals, and lifestyles.

Central AC Units

• Single-Stage units are less energy efficient as they run at full power until reaching a desired temperature and then shut off. These systems operate in “on” or “off” stages.
• Two-Stage air conditioners operate at two stages. The unit will activate and run at 60%, but can ramp up to 100% when needed. This allows energy savings in temperate weather.
• Variable Capacity AC units run almost constantly, using the minimum amount of energy required to maintain a consistent, precise temperature. These units are known for reliable, quiet operation. The investment can quickly be reclaimed due to lower energy costs over time. Overall, energy savings for variable capacity AC units average out to 30% compared to single stage units.

Heat Pumps

Like high efficiency AC units, heat pumps are known for energy savings over time and provide both heating and cooling from a single unit. Other benefits include:

• Energy Efficiency: By running at lower speeds and adjusting output based on demand, these systems consume less energy, leading to significant cost savings on utility bills.
• Consistent Comfort: They maintain a more consistent indoor temperature with minimal fluctuations, providing better overall comfort.
• Quiet Operation: Operating at lower speeds results in quieter performance compared to traditional systems.
• Enhanced Humidity Control: The ability to run continuously at low levels provides superior dehumidification that improves indoor air quality.

Heat pumps are an ideal choice for homeowners wanting to cover both heating and cooling needs.

Evaluating Energy Efficiency: SEER2 Ratings & Certifications

When choosing an HVAC system, understanding energy efficiency ratings and certifications is crucial for making an informed decision. Two key indicators of energy efficiency in HVAC systems are the SEER2 rating and the Energy Star certification.

What is SEER?

SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio and is a measure of the cooling efficiency of an air conditioning system over an entire cooling season. SEER2 is an updated energy standard for AC systems and factors in power cycling under certain environmental constraints. The rating system helps homeowners determine cost savings, environmental impacts, and ensure regulatory compliance that factor into AC replacement.

Understanding Energy Star Certification

In addition to SEER2 ratings, Energy Star certification is another important marker of energy efficiency. The Energy Star program, run by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), identifies and labels energy-efficient products, including HVAC systems. Systems that earn the Energy Star label meet strict energy efficiency criteria set by the EPA, often exceeding the federal minimum standards. This certification assures consumers that they are purchasing a product that will provide superior energy performance and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Using SEER2 Ratings and Energy Star Certification When Choosing HVAC Systems

When evaluating different HVAC systems, look for both the SEER2 rating and the Energy Star label. A higher SEER2 rating indicates better energy efficiency, which translates to lower operating costs and less environmental impact. Similarly, choosing an Energy Star-certified system ensures you are getting a product that has been rigorously tested and proven to save energy.

AC Replacement Cost Considerations

The government has a number of tax incentives for replacing central AC units, upgrading to high-efficiency AC units, and converting to heat pumps. Learn more about potential savings on our blog and financial incentives for switching to a heat pump.

Utility companies like Ameren and Spire offer rebates for installing or upgrading to energy efficient HVAC systems. Between tax incentives, rebates, and long-term energy savings, AC replacement becomes a much more manageable expense.

Why Choose SmartHouse for AC Replacement in St. Louis?

While there are many things to consider when replacing your AC, it doesn’t need to be a hassle – just contact SmartHouse! We’ll meet with you to discuss your comfort and energy efficiency goals, your lifestyle and your budget, so we can recommend the perfect system for you and your home. We will file rebates with utility companies and manufacturers (like Daikin), let you know about other tax incentives, and carry out our work in a timely, professional manner.

SmartHouse’s technicians are licensed, factory-trained, and NATE certified. We’re proud to have the best air conditioning and HVAC experts on staff and are here to deliver the service you need. Call SmartHouse today at 314-370-1816, text us at 314-310-2242, or contact us online for additional information about AC replacement.