A new, high efficiency, central air conditioning system can provide significant energy savings over older systems as well as increase comfort during the hot, sticky months of summer. Adema can design a system to fit any home, office or other unique situation whether you have existing cooling or don’t even have forced air. Since buying a new central air conditioning system is a sizable investment, it is very important that you carefully evaluate the many options available in a new system.
Some of the most important options to evaluate when considering a new system are the SEER Rating, the type of refrigerant used to operate the unit, the unit’s sound level, and the warranty. The most important factor in purchasing your new system is working with a reputable company to perform the installation and maintain the equipment.
SEER Rating The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) is an energy efficiency rating for air conditioners. The higher the SEER, the better the energy performance, the more you save. The US DOE's established minimum SEER rating for cooling is 13.00, air conditioners currently go as high as 21 SEER.
Many older homes have central air conditioning systems that are operating at a SEER rating of 6-8. By replacing an older central air conditioning system with a new high efficiency system, homeowners can reduce energy bills by up to 50% during the summer months.
Now is a great time to replace old, inefficient units. The Federal government is even offering a tax credit of $300 on all newly installed air conditioning units that have a SEER rating of at least 15.
Refrigerant Type There are two main types of refrigerants, R-22 and R-410A. In 1990, the United States passed the Clean Air Act that required the phasing out of all chlorine-based refrigerants. This included R-22 (also known as Freon), which has been standard in residential air conditioners for many years. Since it is not an environmentally friendly refrigerant, it will be phased out over the next decade.
By 2010, no new air conditioners will use R-22. By 2020, the manufacturing of R-22 will be completely banned. In the meantime, the cost to maintain an R-22 air conditioner will go up significantly.
Although it may cost more initially, air conditioners that use R-410A refrigerant will be much less expensive to maintain over the life of the air conditioner and are more environmentally friendly. Additionally, since most air conditioners last between 15-20 years, you will not have to worry about it becoming obsolete in the future.
Sound Levels Most heating and cooling systems manufactured today are quieter than those produced in past years. But there is still a great difference in the sound levels of products on the market today. Be sure to compare sound ratings when you shop for a new air conditioner…your good night’s sleep depends on it. Sound is measured in decibels (db). A decibel describes the relative loudness of a sound. Most air conditioners today are rated between 80 and 64 dB depending on a variety of factors. The chart below shows sound ratings for some common sounds that you are used to hearing:
~Check and replace your filters monthly. If you have high efficiency media air cleaner, replace your filter once a year. ~Keep the outdoor unit free and clear of debris. If the outdoor unit gets covered with leaves, cottonwood or other debris hose off the unit. ~Have the system serviced on annual basis to maintain proper refrigerant levels and operation. ~Use a programmable thermostat and do not run the system when you are not home. ~Operate appliances during the cooler parts of the day. ~Keep shades or curtains drawn on the sunny side of the house, especially during early- and mid-afternoon hours.
Central Air Conditioners
Lennox XC17 Air Conditioner The quietist central air conditioner you can buy -Efficiency Rating: up to 18 SEER -Sound Rating: 62 dB -Warranty: 10 Year Parts
Lennox XC14 & XC13 Air Conditioners Quiet and efficient cooling comfort -Efficiency Rating: up to 16.2 SEER -Sound Rating: 70 dB -Warranty: 10 Year Parts
Lennox 13ACX Air Conditioner Economical, environmentally responsible home cooling -Efficiency Rating: up to 13 SEER -Sound Rating: 76 dB -Warranty: 10 Year Parts
Central Air Conditioners
Goodman SSX16 Air Conditioner -Efficiency Rating: up to 16 SEER -Sound Rating: 73.5 dB -Warranty: 10 Year Parts, Lifetime Compressor
Goodman SSX14 Air Conditioner -Efficiency Rating: up to 15 SEER -Sound Rating: 70 dB -Warranty: 10 Year Parts, Lifetime Compressor
Goodman SSX13 Air Conditioner -Efficiency Rating: up to 14 SEER -Sound Rating: 72 dB -Warranty: 10 Year Parts
Central Air Conditioners
Trane XL15i Air Conditioner Quiet, comfortable and cool
Trane XR14 Air Conditioner Durable comfort meets efficiency
Trane XB13 Air Conditioner Economical, reliable home cooling
If a traditional, ducted, forced air system isn't right for your house we also have other options for both central air conditioning (such as mini-duct high-velocity systems) and spot cooling (including ductless split systems)!
Adema Heating & Air Conditioning ~ 378 Englewood Ave ~ Buffalo, NY 14223
