Upgrading your current air conditioner (AC) in Florida’s hot climate can provide many benefits. You can enjoy boosted energy efficiency, more consistent indoor temperatures, better air quality, quieter operation and more.
However, homeowners should consider various environmental factors when replacing their ACs. Understanding these key elements allows you to make better, eco-friendly choices for your home and family.
An AC system impacts the environment in several ways. Following eco-friendly practices when getting a replacement reduces some of these impacts, helping to lower your utility bills and carbon footprint. Here’s why your replacement matters:
Many sustainable cooling systems are on the market, and knowing the various options allows you to make informed decisions. Exploring SEER2, ENERGY STAR® and heat pumps can be complex, but a simplified approach provides clarity.
SEER2 stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio 2 and is the successor of the previous SEER rating. SEER2 provides a more realistic idea of how an AC will function in your home as it uses local climate conditions and real-world consumption levels. The higher a SEER2 rating, the better, as it shows that the system provides optimal efficiency when turning energy into cool air.
However, SEER2 ratings may often be lower than SEER ratings because SEER2 undergoes more rigorous testing.
ACs with the ENERGY STAR logo are proven to be more efficient than other models. They meet and often exceed strict guidelines set out by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), with state-of-the-art technology that uses less electricity.
A heat pump is a more efficient option than traditional HVAC systems. It transfers heat instead of burning fuel or using electric resistance to generate cool or warm air. During winter, the heat pump pulls warm air from the outside air or the ground into your home. In the summer, it removes hot air from inside.
Heat pumps don’t require separate heating and cooling units, as they can do both. They also make great heaters during mild winters, making them ideal as a more sustainable option.
Additional factors influence the environmental impact of your AC system, such as the type of refrigerant, the size of the unit, and the disposal of old systems.
The EPA is overseeing the phase-out of R-410A refrigerant as part of the American Innovation and Manufacturing (AIM) Act. New systems will be manufactured with more eco-friendly A2L refrigerant options, such as R-454B and R-32, allowing them to have a lower GWP.
These alternatives are less harmful to the environment than older refrigerants. If you want to make sure you’re purchasing an eco-friendly AC unit, choose an AC that uses a more sustainable refrigerant. Also, remember that a professional should always handle these substances.
A right-sized AC strikes the ideal balance between efficiency and maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures. If the AC unit is too big for a space, it can use more power, providing extra cooling that a smaller space doesn’t need. It also won’t dehumidify effectively, which can be an issue in damp climates.
An undersized unit runs constantly to keep the room cool, driving up utility bills. If you’re getting an AC replacement, it’s best to have an expert calculate the necessary load for your home, allowing you to get the right size AC.
One of the most critical environmental considerations when replacing your AC is how you’ll dispose of your old unit. Once you’ve decided on your new system, it’s crucial to dispose of the old one responsibly. Many older models contain refrigerants with high GWP, which can be harmful when released into the atmosphere.
Similar to the EPA mandating the use of refrigerants with lower GWP, the EPA also sets strict guidelines regarding the release of refrigerants into the air and how this should be done. By law, certified technicians must recover the refrigerant from older units responsibly before disposing of it. Any metal components can often be recycled safely.
When upgrading your AC, you may also qualify for rebates, which can save you money or allow you to use it for other home improvement projects. Some state and local programs offer tax credits or rebates, encouraging homeowners to purchase units with a higher energy efficiency rating than their current system. You can also check with your local utility provider to see if they offer rebates or incentive programs.
You may qualify for discounts or rebates with the following:
These incentives lower the upfront cost of getting an eco-friendly, superior system for your home, allowing you to maximize your investment while helping the environment and your pocket.
Upgrading to a brand-new AC can provide quieter, easier operation and boost your home’s value. At Strada Air Conditioning & Heating, we’re your professional HVAC partner.
Our NATE-certified technicians are experts in the latest technologies and refrigerant standards, and will work with you to find the right replacement unit for your needs. We’ll help you choose between a heat pump or AC, ensuring we get the right-sized system for your home.
Contact us today for a consultation, and our team will find an environmentally friendly cooling system for your home.
Joe Strada, owner of Strada Electric, Security & Air Conditioning, started working at the young age of 14. He’s never attended college, but he has spent his life dedicating his time and energy to his trade and providing high-quality services to his customers. At 19, Joe started working at a well-known air conditioning company and developing his commitment to excellence. He has state certifications in electric, plumbing, air conditioning, residential building and general contracting. During his years of training and experience, Joe noticed a sincere need for a dependable electrical contractor in Florida who embodied the same dedication to customer service in which he believed. In 2003, Joe co-founded Strada Electric, Security & Air Conditioning. Since then, the company has been in the business of providing peace of mind to customers. We offer expert electric, security and air conditioning solutions for homes and businesses, leveraging our experience to deliver professional and responsive service with reliability and respect.
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