This depends on how old your air conditioner is and if it is still covered by the manufacturer’s warranty.
Your current ducted air conditioner has looked after you for a long time but is now starting to show its age by needing repairs which keep popping up. As you will know repairs can add up over time and a major issue like a compressor or outdoor coil replacement can cost you a considerable amount.
As an example, the cost to replace a compressor in an older air conditioner that operates with R22 refrigerant can be upwards of $3800 or to replace a damaged outdoor coil the cost is approx. $5500.
Remember, you will still be left with an older, less efficient air conditioner and with the possibility of other major repairs soon because of the air conditioner’s age.
Why Upgrade Your Ducted Air Conditioning System?
Upgrading your ducted air conditioning system will bring benefits to your home, comfort, and wallet.
Energy Efficiency
Upgrading your ducted air conditioning system will improve energy efficiency. With new air conditioner models, you can expect less energy consumption. Doing so results in lower energy bills and reducing your carbon footprint.
Enhanced Comfort
An upgraded air conditioning system will likely have variable-speed compressors & fan motors along with improved controls that have intuitive zoning control, providing enhanced comfort control. These features allow the system to operate more quietly and maintain a consistent temperature throughout your home.
Upgrading the Control
Upgrading to a smart control can significantly enhance your system’s performance.
With ActronAir’s newer systems you have a choice of controls.
The NEO control brings advanced capabilities such as weekly schedules, countdown timers, and an away mode, allowing you to customise your comfort settings throughout the week effortlessly.
Apps
Nowadays air-conditioners often come with an App. When the app is installed on your phone or tablet, it provides remote access to operate your air conditioner, and the smarter Apps have what is known as Geo-Fencing.
Geo-Fencing, when combined with active commands, provides peace of mind that the air conditioner is not accidentally left on by automatically turning the system off when the command is activated, saving energy when you are not home. Conversely Geo-Fencing with an active command can turn on your air-conditioner so that you will come home to a comfortable home.
Google and Alexa
New air conditioner controls are most likely compatible with smart devices such as Google Home or Amazon Alexa providing greater user experience and ease of use.
Factors to Consider Before Upgrading
Considering the following before upgrading your ducted air conditioning system.
Added Value
A new air conditioner will not only provide improved efficiency and comfort but will also be an asset for your home, improving its value.
Age of the Existing System
The age of your current air conditioning system is critical in assessing if an update is worthwhile. If your system is more than 10-15 years old, a newer, more energy-efficient model is likely to bring considerable benefits.
Capacity and Size
Upgrading your air conditioning system provides an opportunity to reassess the capacity and size of the air-conditioner.
With all the new electronic devices in homes today, a second fridge or even extensions for your home all add new demands on the air-conditioner since it was first installed. This could mean that the existing system is undersized.
Replacement allows you to address this and you may even find that you will still save on operating costs due to the advancements of modern technologies of compressors, fans, and active zoning making newer air conditioners much more efficient since the old system was installed.
If your current system is too big or too small for your house, it might lead to higher energy bills and less comfort.
Government Incentives
Some states have rebates for energy efficient air conditioners.
Check Government web sites in your region for the applicable schemes.
Spare Parts
Quite often with air conditioners that are 10 years or older, spare parts can have extremely long delays or the spare parts are not even available. And when you repair an older system there is very little warranty available, which only applies to the repairs made by the technician.
Warranty
A new air conditioning system will come with the manufacturer’s warranty providing you peace of mind that should anything happen, you will be covered for parts and labour for up to 5 years.
Upgrading the Ductwork
Replacing your air conditioner provides the opportunity to also replace your ducting. There have been great improvements in the flexible ductwork over the past 10 years with improved UV rated properties and better insulation qualities.
Old or damaged ductwork will reduce the efficiency of your air conditioning and heating system and negatively impact indoor air quality. Upgrading your ductwork ensures that cooled air in summer and heated air in winter is distributed throughout your home, reducing energy waste, and improving comfort.
Whether you live in a hot or cold climate, upgrading your ductwork can significantly benefit your air ducted air conditioning system to deliver the cooling and heating where it is needed.
Adding Zoning Controls
New controls allow for the addition of individual Zone temperature controls to be installed. Dividing your home into separate areas or zones allows you to include advanced features like individual Zone or Sensor controls, providing each area or zone with its own temperature settings. By targeting specific areas or zones, you can reduce energy consumption and increase comfort.
Choosing the Right HVAC Professional
Working with a knowledgeable and experienced heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) professional is essential when upgrading your ducted air conditioning system.
They will assess your current system, recommend appropriate upgrades, and install new components and features to optimise performance and provide the right solution for your cooling and heating comfort needs.
If you are ready to upgrade your ducted air conditioning system and experience the benefits of better control, increased energy efficiency, enhanced comfort, and improved indoor air quality? Then don’t wait any longer!
Contact ActronAir today for more information and we will connect you with one of our expert dealers who will provide you with the best solution for your home. Our Dealer network are experienced professionals and are here to help you make the right choice and ensure a seamless upgrade.
