Considering replacing or upgrading your A/C? While this can seem like a daunting and overwhelming task, Viking Air works with home owners and business owners to determine what size, what features, and what kind of unit is best for your property.

When To Replace Your Air Conditioner

Unfortunately, your air conditioner will not last forever, and you will eventually have to replace it. While it may be obvious to replace or upgrade you’re A/C after a major breakdown, there are many other signs that could indicate it’s time to replace. By watching for these things, you can avoid large, costly issues and improve your system’s reliability and energy efficiency. 

Signs it is time to replace your HVAC system include: 

• Its Age. Many systems can last for 10 years or more with proper maintenance. If yours is past the decade mark, it could be smart to get an upgrade to avoid the compounding issues that can come with wear and tear.
• Increases in Your Utility Bills. These spikes in costs often indicate that something has malfunctioned and needs to be replaced. Gradual increases can suggest that your HVAC system is not working as efficiently as it once did, and it could be cost effective to swap it out with newer technologies.
• Frequent Repairs. Have you called for help with your HVAC system multiple times in the past year or less? If so, it could be much more cost effective to replace it, instead of paying for one repair after the next.
• Temperature Differences from Room to Room: Are the rooms in your home or office no longer cooling evenly? Do you have hot spots? If so, your A/C unit has lost the ability to keep up with the demand. 
• Issues with Humidity: Does your home feel muggy? Or is your A/C constantly running and struggling to reach your desired temperature? This could mean your HVAC system has lost capacity. A repair diagnostic can help you assess whether repairs to your A/C can address the problem or whether upgrading and replacing your system is worthwhile. 

The $5,000 Rule

Another industry-accepted rule of thumb is the $5,000 rule. The $5,000 rule can you help you determine whether to repair or replace your HVAC system. Multiply the age of your equipment by its estimated repair cost. If the outcome is under $5,000, you should probably repair it. If over $5,000, you should replace it. 

Features And Benefits

Variable Speed Systems

Variable speed air conditioner systems keep your home at the precise temperature that feels best to you. Your fan can be adjusted to any speed, which helps your system save energy and run more efficiently. 

Two-Speed Systems

Choose between two cooling speeds with a two-stage air conditioning system. For everyday cooling, the “low” setting can help beat the summer heat. On hot days where you may want an extra blast of cold air, switch your unit’s fan to “high.”

Single-Speed Systems

Single-stage AC systems provide powerful cooling to your entire home. The fan in your air conditioner turns on when your home’s temperature rises a degree or two, and automatically cools your living space back down to your comfort level.

Communicating Systems / Zoning Systems

Set up precise zone-by-zone control over temperature and humidity, allowing you to schedule your home’s unique temperature patterns and adjust each zone for optimal comfort.

Whole Home Dehumidifiers

Improve air quality, are designed for quiet operation, and are engineered for low temperature operation providing comfort yearround. 

Surge Protection

Tampa Bay is considered by some as the Lightning Capital of the World. Investing in surge protection can safeguard your HVAC system and other electrical elements in the event of a power outage or surge. 

If it is time for a replacement, trust our HVAC services in Pinellas County! We have connections with some of the industry’s top brands such as Trane and Mitsubishi. We would be happy to provide you options for an energy-efficient air conditioner that you can rely on for years.