Reusable Air Conditioner Filters

Is there such a thing as reusable air conditioner or furnace filters? Yes, there is. These reusable filters work by means of static electricity and have a number of benefits that make them more efficient and economical than disposable fiberglass filters. Here are a few facts about electrostatic air filters and what makes them so economical.

 Last Up To 10 Yrs

Reusable air conditioner filters are made from a fine mesh material which can be cleaned and used over and over. They are the economical choice when it comes to selecting air filters for a couple of reasons. This type of filter is easy to clean, saves money over time and is perfect for anyone wanting a greener filtration system. Another benefit is that they can last up to 10 years with proper care.

Economical

What makes these filters so good is the fact that homeowners can save a substantial amount of money by buying something that can be reused many times. Typically, these filters cost anywhere from $20 to $50 and can be custom made to fit larger systems.

If you have wanted to start living a greener lifestyle, this would be a good start. There is no special care required, simply hose off and allow the filter to dry completely before replacing. Also called electrostatic filters they trap dust and other particles by attracting them with static electricity, the same way that socks stick to everything that comes out of your dryer.

Replaces Disposable Filters

They are compatible with every major brand of air conditioner or furnace and completely replaces disposable filters. Using this type of filter saves the cost of buying disposable filters every month which runs from $2-$15 each, depending on the brand you buy. The demand for greener products and services increases as the public becomes more aware of the need for it. These filters are available for heating and cooling systems, air purifiers and more.

Increased Efficiency

Electrostatic air filters trap 94% of the dust and allergens in your home using natural static electricity. This keeps dust particles out of the moving parts of your air conditioning system helping it work more efficiently and helps keep the indoor air cleaner. This not only helps your cooling system work better but also helps it last longer.

For more expert advice about AC repair or if you have questions about air filters, give us a call. ABA Heating and Cooling is your ACcontractor in Austin. Call us for all of your heating or cooling needs.

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Qualities to Look for in an AC Contractor

When looking for an HVAC company to handle your heating and cooling needs, there are a few things you should know about contractors and what qualities a good contractor should have. Here are a few things to look for when researching AC contractors in Austin. These recommendations will help you choose a company that cares about your comfort and provides great service.
 

Follows state regulations and building codes
 

Of course the contractor you choose should be licensed according to state and local regulations as well as be bondable. There should never be a hint of cutting corners or bypassing anything. A good contractor will do everything within the scope of his profession and the law.
 

Is knowledgeable on all aspects of heating and cooling
 

There are so many choices available when it comes to heating and cooling your home. You can choose from a ducted system, mini-split system or heat and be able to evaluate your pump. Your contractor should be knowledgeable on these products and evaluate your home and current system to make recommendations for upgrade or replacement. He or she should be able to answer any questions you have about the products and requirements for installation.

Values the customer’s input

The third thing a good contractor should do is listen to the customer when he or she describes a problem or situation. Sometimes you can determine the cause of a problem by listening to the signs that accompany it. Being a good listener and asking the right questions are qualities of a good contractor and one that really cares about solving their client’s problems.
 

References from former or current clients
 

A good AC contractor in Austin should have a list of satisfied clients that recommend them to their family and friends. Recommendations and satisfied customers speak volumes about a company’s integrity and commitment to excellence.

ABA Heating and Cooling would like to be your one-stop shop when it comes to all things relating to home comfort. We have been in the industry for over 20 years and care about our customers and our community. Contact us if you need AC repair service or to find out about new heating and cooling systems.

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When Should You Call a Technician: AC Repair in Austin

Your air conditioning system has been acting up lately and you are wondering if a repair call is needed. Although everything is working, you have heard stories from friends about what happened to them and how it could have been avoided if they’d called for service sooner. Don’t let fear of the unknown keep you down, there are a few things you can check on your own before calling for AC repair in Austin. If a repair call is needed after that you can tell them what you’ve already done to help them diagnose your problem.

AC repair checklist:
•    Check your air filter-they get dirty quickly and you may have forgotten to change it.
•    Check your programmed thermostat settings-if you override pre-set programs they need to be rest.
•    Check your outside compressor unit for obstructions like tall grass or weeds.
•    Check your inside motor and blowers for any dirt or debris that may be clogging it.
•    If you notice leaking or pooling of fluid near the bottom your condensate drain may need cleaning.
 

These are simple things you can check yourself before calling a repair company. If checking these things does not solve your problem then a repair call is in order. The key to maintaining your system in good working order is making repairs in a timely manner. Most problems can be fixed quickly if they’re gotten to right away.
 

Here are a few signs that it is necessary to call for AC Repair:

• The system is running but is not blowing out cool air. It may be low on refrigerant and just need to be recharged or some of the moving parts may be clogged or dirty
• Your system is not turning on at all. It may just need to be reset or recalibrated.
• Excessive noise or grinding sound-a little noise is to be expected on older systems but not loud noise, this is a sign of a problem. The blower bearings may be wearing out and need replaced after a few years of usage.

In any situation, it is best not to wait too long to call for service when you think it is needed. The old saying “better safe than sorry” is true in this case. It is better to call and get it fixed, even if it is a minor issue, than let it go and have your whole system break down.
 

One solution that may also help is preventative maintenance. Routine maintenance catches a lot of these smaller problems before they cause bigger ones. During these maintenance checks the technician will check refrigerant levels, your condensate drain and air filters so preventing problems goes a long way to avoiding unnecessary repair bills.
 

Call ABA Heating and Cooling for all of your home comfort needs. We do planned maintenance as well as emergency AC repair and replacement service.

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Using a Programmable Thermostat to Maximize Energy Savings

Can using a programmable thermostat save you money on your heating and cooling bills? Yes, it can if you use it properly. There is a substantial savings to be had by using a programmable thermostat to regulate your home’s comfort settings. Using pre-set temperature settings can reduce your home’s energy consumption by cycling less when the home is unoccupied or less cooling is needed.
 

Programmable thermostats let you optimize your heating and cooling efforts by creating different temperature settings for different times of the day. Instead of your air conditioning system running full-blast all day long, you can create pre-set times to turn the system up or down depending on the cooling needs of the family.
 

The Department of Energy recommends setting your air conditioner to 78 degrees in the summer when you are home and raising the temperature a few degrees when you will be away or sleeping. The maximum savings occurs when the temperature remains consistent for 8 hours or more. Raising the temperature by 10 degrees during the day while you are at work will save you approximately 10% or more on your cooling bills.
 

It is a myth that it costs less to run your AC all day than to turn it off when you leave the house. You save money when you don’t use energy for a certain period of time. Your home would be extremely hot and humid when you returned at the end of the day, so raising the temperature a few degrees may be a better option. Anytime you raise the temperature by 5 degrees or more above 78 you are saving money.
 

One way to save with a programmable thermostat is to create different setting for different times of the day. Most thermostats have the ability to hold 4 or more pre-set program settings at a time. You can set the temperature higher early in the day when it is still cool outside and take advantage of a little natural cooling.
 

Raising the temperature means that the air conditioner will not cycle on until the inside temperature reaches the temperature set on the thermostat. If you create a setting of 82 degrees for the hours of 7am to 10am, the thermostat will only turn on if it reaches that temperature. You can then set it back to 78 degrees from 10am to 3pm which is typically the hottest part of the day and raise it again a few degrees when you retire to bed for the night. You can raise it as much as 5 degrees more when you will be away from home for at least 8 hours or more.
 

•    So here is a quick breakdown of how to save with a programmable thermostat:
•    Set thermostat higher when it is cooler outside or you will be gone
•    Set temperature higher at night when you are sleeping
•    Keep it at around 78 degrees or more when you are home (tip* using ceiling fans helps too)

Programmable thermostats help you lower cooling costs by optimizing your comfort settings and using less energy. If you would like to know more about programmable thermostats or have questions about installation or compatibility with your current system, contact ABA Heating and Cooling.

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Making the Right Choice Between AC Repair and Replacement in Austin

When faced with the decision to repair or replace your current cooling system, do you find it difficult to decide which one to choose? Many homeowners wonder if they should take the plunge and invest in a newer system or repair the old one and hope it lasts a few more years. Here are a few questions to ask yourself that will help you decide between AC repair and replacement in Austin.
 

Quick Quiz
 

Is your system 10 or more years old? The average cooling system is designed to last about 15 years, so one that is 10 years old or more is already past its prime and repairing it would probably just be a waste of money.
 

Has it needed multiple repairs? Numerous repairs are a sign that it is time to replace your current system. If you add up the total of all the repair bills you’ve paid you probably could have bought a new system for the same price. Repairing a system over and over can run into a lot of money spent and may not be cost-effective in the long-term.
 

Do you have problems with mold? Maybe you haven’t thought about it but one of the jobs your air conditioner does it to remove humidity from the air. If you are having issues with mold then it is not doing its job very well. Mold growth is caused by a damp environment which is a perfect breeding ground for germs and bacteria. This is a health concern for young children and older people, especially those with asthma or other breathing problems.
 

Are some rooms cooler than others? If you have some rooms that are warmer than others, look for a logical reason for it. If there is none, your system is working but not to the best of its ability to maintain a consistent temperature.
 

Will this be your family home for more than 5 years? If you plan to stay in this home for 5 years or more you will benefit more from replacing your current system. The money you save on utility expenses by upgrading to a more efficient system will help defray some of the cost of replacement. You also may be able to take advantage of government rebates on qualifying appliances.
 

If you are experiencing any of these problems listed above it is recommended that you replace your current system with a newer, energy-efficient cooling system.
 

If your system is only a few years old, works pretty well but has problems and has not needed any major repairs in the last few years then it is more economical to consider AC repair instead of replacement at this time. Although the newer systems out-perform older ones in every way, it may not be the most cost-effective solution for everyone.
 

For additional information on AC repair and replacement, contact ABA Heating and Cooling. Our NATE-certified technicians can evaluate your current system and explain what options are available.

Benefits of Choosing a Ducted Air Conditioning System

Whether you are a first-time homeowner or a veteran, you should know that your home is the single largest investment you will make in your lifetime and it pays to have the best equipment to avoid frequent repairs and replacement costs.  When it comes to air conditioning systems, you have two choices of installation: ducted and ductless. Here we will look at the benefits of choosing a ducted system for your home.
 

The System
 

The system consists of a compressor unit that can be installed on the roof or on a concrete slab in your backyard and a condenser and blower that is installed indoors. The fan blows the cooled air through a series of ducts that are connected to each room in your house.
Consistency and Savings
 

When discussing heating and cooling systems, the topic of saving money is always a main consideration. A balanced cooling system saves money because the cooled air is evenly distributed avoiding the problem of rooms that are too hot or too cold.
 

The system cycles on an off automatically to a set temperature determined by the homeowner, which allows the temperature to remain consistently comfortable. Window units and portable air conditioners only cool small spaces and cannot cool the entire house as well as a central air conditioning system can.
 

Reduced Noise
 

Central air conditioners tend to be relatively quiet and take up little room inside your home. The ducts can be installed in a ceiling where it can be concealed or in the basement depending on the size of the space needed to cool.
 

Cleaner Air
 

The air in a ducted system is cleaner because it is filtered and germ-free. You can purchase a variety of high-efficiency filters that trap and remove the smallest particles, down to 0.3 microns in size. Filtered air is better for people who suffer from breathing problems such as asthma and C.O.P.D.
 

Energy-Efficient
 

The newer, energy-efficient systems use 30 to 50% less energy than their older predecessors and some may qualify for tax rebates as well as some city utility rebates for installing energy-saving appliances. The savings come from regulated usage of energy-efficient appliances and rebates from the government.
 

Benefits of ducted air conditioning:
•    Operates quietly
•    Uses less energy
•    More cost-effective than other systems
•    Evenly distributes cooled air
•    May qualify for energy rebate
 

So the benefits of a ducted air conditioning system are reduced noise, energy-efficient and more even distribution of cooled air. Contact ABA Heating and Cooling for more information on ducted air conditioning systems or to schedule AC repair in Austin, or to learn about replacement. We carry all major brands and our technicians are NATE-certified and knowledgeable on all aspects of heating and cooling.

6 Tips for Managing Your Home Cooling Costs

Air conditioners run all summer long in Austin homes. Because our cooling systems are in constant use, it is typical to see large utility bills during the hottest months. Even if you have an older system, it is possible to lower your energy costs without sacrificing your family’s comfort. Here are a few tips to help you manage your cooling costs more efficiently.
 

1.    Seal drafts and air leaks. Air leaks let cooled air out through small cracks and gaps under doors and around window frames. Sealing these leaks with silicone or latex caulk will keep the air inside where it belongs and keep your air conditioner from working overtime trying to keep things cool. When your system cycles too frequently it uses more energy and puts more stress on the working parts causing them to wear out sooner.
 

2.    Change your air filters regularly. Inexpensive air filters should be changed monthly with higher-efficiency filters changed every three months. An electrostatic filter is an economical choice because it can be hosed off and reused because it is made out of charged metal so it attracts dust and other particles.
 

3.    Get a system tune-up. A system that is working properly will also use less energy than one that isn’t. Keep to a regular maintenance schedule to keep things running smooth. You should also have a pre-season check every year prior to the beginning of the cooling season.
 

4.    Keep windows and doors tightly closed. You probably have no idea how many times a day the doors are opened and closed on a daily basis. Young children often leave doors open or don’t close them all the way and that can let precious cooled air leak out.
 

5.    Do laundry or wash dishes in the evening when it is cooler. Most utility companies’ rates are cheaper in the evenings after 7pm. The rates per kilowatt hour are lower because these are considered off-peak hours or low-usage hours. To maximize savings, do your laundry or run the dishwasher later in the evening when rates drop.  It also puts less moisture in the air for your air conditioner to remove which means less cycling on and off.
 

6.    Set your thermostat at 78 degrees and raise it one or two degrees when you go to bed. You can raise it as much as 5 degrees if you use a fan while you sleep. Fans do not really cool the air they just remove the heat that surrounds your body making you feel cooler.

All of these tips will help you lower energy consumption and manage your cooling costs. If your cooling system isn’t running as efficiently as it should, contact us at ABA Heating and Cooling. We can evaluate your current system and recommend a solution to your inefficient cooling problem.

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What is the Best Type of Air Filter?

Air filters do a double duty; they keep dust, hair and pet dander from clogging your furnace or AC motor and also trap unhealthy germs in the air that can make people sick and irritate breathing problems like asthma and COPD. For maximum efficiency, air filters should be changed every 1 to 3 months depending on your system usage. The best type is the one that is the most efficient and provides the best performance. Here is some basic information to help you choose the best filter for your heating and/or cooling system.

How Many Types of Air Filters Are There?

There are many different types of air filters on the market including hybrid forms that are used in air purifiers and cleaners.  The types listed here are commonly used to trap dust and particles in your heating and cooling systems. They are :

• Pleated filters
• Electrostatic filters
• Fiberglass filters

Pleated and Fiberglass Filters

The types of filter found in most homes are usually the fiberglass or pleated filters purchased from the hardware store or home improvement center for around $3 each. These two types are inexpensive and generally last about 1 to 3 months depending on usage of the heating or cooling system. If your furnace or air conditioner is in continual use then it will need to be changed more frequently.

Electrostatic Filters

This type of filter is a little different from the others as it works on the principles of magnetism to draw in dust, allergens and particles. These filters are manufactured out of fiber material and also a metal mesh similar to screen material that can be washed off and reused. The filters are charged, or magnetized to attract particles and can be found at certain retailers selling permanent or reusable filters. The cost of these filters can vary between $20 and $50 dollars depending on the size needed.

High Efficiency Filters

While these are more efficient than most other types of filters they are also more costly. The upside to this is they also tend to last longer than standard filters, so you could weigh the difference between cost and longevity if you are considering these filters. Some Allergen-Reducing filters are manufactured with several layers of material for best collection of particulates. These high efficiency filters cost between $5 and $15 each and perform similar to HEPA filters at reducing allergens and microbial particles.

The best type of filters is the one that fits your needs as well as your budget so you will have to consider each type and their benefits to decide which one is best for you.

Keeping your air filters clean and changed frequently will prevent a lot of AC repair calls to your HVAC contractor. Many of the repair jobs seen by contractors could have been prevented by changing air filters more often as they get very dirty with continuous use. Call ABA Heating and Cooling if you need AC repair service or for more information about how air filters work to keep your system clean.

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Stop Air Leaks to Maximize AC Efficiency in Austin

One way to maximize the efficiency of your AC system is to keep your heated or cooled air inside where it belongs.  When you were a child if your parents ever said “close the door, we’re not heating the outside” that means that creating a tight seal in your home keeps you from doing exactly that: heating the outside. 

Your heat is leaking right out through cracks and crevices making your AC system cycle longer to maintain room temperature and also uses more energy resulting in higher monthly utility bills. Here are a few steps you can take to ensure that your warm or cool air stays right where it belongs.
 

Seal Air Leaks
 

This one step makes a big difference in keeping your home warmer or cooler. Weather stripping around windows and doors stop leaks that occur where there are small cracks or gaps. Larger gaps in the framework of wooden door s can be sealed with silicone or foam caulking.
 

Check Insulation Levels
 

Insulation levels also apply to air conditioning needs. Insulation provides a barrier that keeps hot air from leaking in and making your system work harder to remove the humidity. Insulation in your attic should reach the tops of your floor joists to be efficient. If it is low you will need to add a few inches to the existing levels to make it adequate.
 

Upgrade to New Windows
 

Double-paned windows are the most efficient at reducing heat transfer and stopping air leaks, but may not be an economical choice for everyone.  If new windows are not in your budget you can still minimize the amount of hot or cold air that transfers through them. In the winter time, cover windows with a heavy curtain at night to keep cold air out, and in the summer cover them during the day to keep heat out. You can also invest in window cling film that blocks heat and provides privacy for windows without curtains or shades.
 

Seal Drafts
 

Underneath doors is another source of drafts. The little brush assembly that is attached at the bottom of the door is meant to keep out drafts but, if that is missing as it may be in some older homes, you can buy a draft stopper that does the same job. A draft stopper is a roll of material that fits across the bottom of the door to stop air leaks.
 

Stopping air leaks goes a long way towards making your system run more efficiently. Using a programmable thermostat, blocking leaks and keeping your heating and cooling system in top shape will keep it working as efficiently as possible for a very long time.

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Improving the Efficiency of Your Central Air Conditioner in Austin

Summer utility bills can be lowered by making your air conditioner operate more efficiently. Many people do things that make their system work harder like leaving windows or doors open, use dishwashers on “heated dry” settings or use their ovens that let extra heat in that has to be removed and conditioned by your cooling system. Here are some tips for making your air conditioner operate more efficiently:
 

Block Heat Transfer
 

Heat transference occurs when the sun hits your windows during the hottest part of the day.  It can heat up a room in no time making your air conditioner work harder to cool the space. It is best to cover windows with a heavy curtain, window shades or other material to block or deflect the heat rays. Mirrored or tinted window film also blocks a lot of the heat and UV rays from sun-facing windows.
 

Change Air Filters Monthly
 

In the summer, it is best to change air filters monthly due to continuous system use.  Austin summers are hot and that means that the filters are going to get pretty dirty collecting dust, pet hair, smoke, mold and allergens from getting in your ventilation system. Air filters keep particles from clogging up the moving parts of your air conditioner or furnace but when dirty, it can restrict air flow through the system and put stress on the motor and ductwork.
 

Use Programmed Settings
 

Use programmed settings even on days that everyone is home. Most people will set their thermostats to run at a lower temperature while they are away but then override it temporarily because they came home early. If you keep the settings as they are you will save more money because your air conditioner will be running efficiently for longer periods and your body will get used to a slightly higher temperature.
 

Make Use of Existing Fans
 

Using fans in combination with your air conditioner allows you to raise the temperature a few degrees without sacrificing comfort. Fans do not cool the air in the room, they cool the pocket of air around your body making you feel cooler. If you sleep better when it’s cool, turn on your fan and raise the setting on your air conditioner. The fan will cool you by blowing cool air around you and you won’t even notice the temperature difference. You will, however, notice the savings on your monthly utility bills.
 

Replace Your Old System
 

AC replacement is recommended if your cooling system is more than 12 years old or you have had numerous repairs in the past year. Energy Star models are more energy-efficient and government rebates can help defray some of the costs of new installation.
 

ABA Heating and Cooling are experts in AC repair and replacement. Call us for all of your heating and cooling needs. Out technicians are NATE-certified and we have been serving the residents of Austin for many years.

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Benefits of Choosing Central Air Conditioning Systems in Austin Over Room Air Conditioners

When it comes to choosing an air conditioner for your new Austin home, picking one may seem very confusing for a new homeowner. There are many factors that are considered when choosing between a room air conditioner that installs in an empty window and a central air conditioner that needs ductwork. Which one to choose? Well, here are some facts to help you choose the right air conditioner for your home.
 

Benefits of Central Air Conditioning
 

There are some good benefits to owning a central air conditioning system.  One very big benefit comes from the savings you get on your utility bills by being able to operate your system with a programmable thermostat. You can determine the temperature your home will be while you are there and when you’re away. 
 

Even though a central air conditioner is larger and runs continuously it still uses less energy than older models of air conditioners. New energy-saving models use 30 to 50% less energy than older models and energy-saving practices help you save a considerable amount of money on your cooling bills. If you raise the temperature at night and use a fan you will reduce your energy usage and lower your cooling costs as well. Here are a few benefits of a central air conditioner.

•    Operates on designated settings
•    Uses less energy than room air conditioners
•    Less noise
•    Does not obstruct the view of windows
•    Takes up little space
 

Disadvantages of Room Units:
 

The problems associated with room air conditioners are that you cannot set to desired temperatures, many have just three settings “high, low and off.” 
 

Condensation leaks are also common with window units as well as frequent icing over of the evaporative coils after running for a long time. 
 

Another drawback is that it really only cools a small area at a time. It would be enough to cool a small studio or one-bedroom apartment, but anything larger would benefit more from a central air conditioner. It would just be a waste of money and energy to try and cool the whole house with a room air conditioner.
 

Choosing an Air Conditioner
 

So now that you have a little information on both systems, it should be a little easier to decide which one is right for you. Remember that size is important; if you have a large house you will need a larger cooling system to accommodate it. If you have a small basement and not enough space for ductwork don’t worry, a ductless split system will work just fine in your situation. The government also offers incentives for homeowners to upgrade to energy-efficient systems by giving rebates to qualifying Energy Star appliances that help to defray some of the cost.
 

Contact your AC contractor in Austin to discuss installing central air conditioning in your new home. The NATE-certified technicians at ABA Heating and Cooling can evaluate your home and its cooling needs and make a recommendation on a new system that fits your needs as well as your budget.

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AC Replacement in Austin - Upgrading to a New Central Air Conditioning System

Air conditioning is a necessity for hot summers in Austin, if your current cooling system isn’t do that great of a job of keeping your home cool and comfortable it may be time for AC replacement or upgrading to a completely new system. Here are a few things to think about when considering an upgrade and some reasons why it is a good investment.
 

Reasons to Upgrade
 

A central air conditioning system is meant to last for about 20 years, after that things can start to degrade making it necessary for frequent repairs and eventually, replacement. Although your current system may be in good working order, it may not be operating as efficiently as it should which may be why your utility bills are higher than they have been in the past.
 

Higher energy usage is a sign that your system is not operating at its full potential. If your system is not that old but you are wondering about upgrading, contact your AC contractor in Austin and have them evaluate your system and make a recommendation for upgrading.
 

Get the Right Size
 

One aspect of choosing a new central air conditioner is making sure to get the right size to efficiently cool your home. If you are upgrading from a room air conditioner it will also depend on how much available space you have for ductwork. Your AC repair contractor in Austin can advise you on the size requirements for the size of your home and even install it for you.
 

Look for Energy Star Ratings
 

If you have not purchased new appliances in recent years you may not be aware of the new rating system as it applies to energy-efficiency. Energy Star appliances, including heating and cooling systems, are rated with the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating (SEER) system which gives a more accurate description of its efficiency. Older systems may have had a rating of 6, but the new minimum rating for any appliance is 13 so you can see you will have a more efficient system with higher ratings.
 

Additional Options:
 

•     Variable-Speed  Air Handler
•    Fan-Only switch
•    Operates quietly
•    Filter-Check Light
 

Newer energy-efficient models have built-in features that make it even more efficient such as a Fan-Only switch that can be used on cooler instead of running the AC and a variable speed handler that adjusts its speed to handle the home’s cooling load instead of operating at full speed continuously when it may not be necessary. Some even have an indicator light that reminds you to check the air filter.
 

Upgrading to a new central air conditioner is well worth the cost because the new system will work more efficiently and save you more money on utility expenses. Newer heating and cooling systems use 30 to 50% less energy than models constructed before the 1970s. Even if your old system is only 10 years old, you’ll still get a considerable savings by upgrading to a new system.

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