3 Reasons Why You Should Upgrade Your AC Unit to the 410a
Air conditioners use a hefty 6% of all U.S. electricity. Changing out your AC from an old system to a new high-efficiency system saves between 20% and 50% of energy use. This cuts your costs and helps the environment.
Is it time for you to switch out your old AC unit?
Read on to learn more about why you should upgrade your AC to the 410a.
Understanding Refrigerant
It’s the chemical used in air conditioners that keeps the system cool. The problem is its toxicity. The current R22 refrigerant, known as Freon, is now banned in the U.S.
By 2020, R22 won’t be imported or made in the U.S.
R22 is a hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) and contributes to ozone depletion which is bad for the environment.
The new R410a is a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) that doesn’t cause ozone depletion. R410a is known by the brand name Puron. In 2015, R410a became the new air-conditioning standard in the U.S.
SEER Rating
Older AC units using R22 operate at a SEER efficiency of 13 or lower. The higher the number, the better the SEER rating. SEER stands for “Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating.” The better the SEER rating, the more efficient the AC unit.
Over time, a newer system with a higher SEER rating saves you a lot of money. As the R22 is phased out, it’s going to cost a lot more when your system needs recharging. This is because R22 will come from reused and recycled systems.
Going with an upgraded system means you won’t worry about costly R22. And you’ll own a more efficient system overall.
With a new system, you’ll see savings of up to 50% on your home cooling bills. The month-to-month reduction in your energy bill offsets the cost of the new system.
It’s possible to replace a burned out evaporator coil and put a 410a condenser on your AC system. This converts your current system to 410a. But, in the long run, it’s more cost effective to invest in a new 410a AC unit.
The newer 410a units run cooler than their older counterparts. This reduces the risk of your compressor overheating and burning out.
Environmental Concerns
By upgrading your AC to 410a, you’ll do your part for the environment. R22 is a dangerous ozone-depleting chemical. Although 410a is still a chemical, it doesn’t deplete the ozone layer.
Unfortunately, no AC system is good for the environment. But at least the worst chemicals are getting phased out. Until we know how to cool our homes with solar or wind power, 410a is the best choice.
Opt for the Upgrade
A new AC unit is one of the biggest investments you’ll make. But keep in mind that over time, the right unit is more efficient and saves you money. With R22 phased out of the market, it’s going to get costly. It makes good sense to upgrade to a 410a system.
With a 410a system, you’ll have higher efficiency and lower bills. The likelihood of needing compressor repairs is also lower.
Upgrade your old inefficient system now. If you’re looking for a reliable HVAC contractor, click here.