A new air conditioning unit is an investment. Since these systems can last for decades, it’s not surprising that you may have concerns about getting the replacement done right. For many homeowners, dealing with different refrigerant types, sizes and seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings can feel overwhelming.
In this article, we’ll break down the most common mistakes to avoid during AC replacement, from choosing the wrong size of unit to overlooking professional installation. By avoiding these frequent pitfalls, you can make informed decisions, protect your investment, and ensure your new AC keeps you cool and comfortable during Florida’s hot, humid summers.
It’s common for homeowners to choose an AC unit that’s either too big or too small. In the case of AC units, size refers to cooling capacity, not physical dimensions. An incorrectly sized system leads to poor performance and inefficient operation, which can shorten the unit’s lifespan.
An oversized unit can cool your space too quickly, leading to a short-cycling effect where the unit frequently turns on and off. Short-cycling can also result in poor humidity control if the unit doesn’t run long enough to pull adequate moisture from the air.
An undersized unit can struggle to cool your home effectively, leading to issues like high energy bills, uneven temperatures and premature failure.
To choose the right AC unit size, it’s best to work with an experienced technician.
This mistake often goes hand in hand with the first. By skipping a professional load calculation for AC replacement, you risk oversizing or undersizing the system.
While relying on a simple online calculator can be tempting, working with a professional ensures accuracy. Technicians follow industry standards set by Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA), like the Manual J calculation for residential loads, to conduct a detailed analysis of your home’s unique cooling needs.
A professional load calculation accounts for square footage, home orientation, insulation quality, window type and number, ceiling height, and local climate. This comprehensive approach ensures the new system matches your home’s needs for optimal comfort and efficiency.
When installing a new AC unit, homeowners can make the mistake of not including ductwork in the replacement process. Ductwork delivers conditioned air to each room in your home and returns air to the cooling system for reconditioning. Leaky or poorly designed ducts can decrease your new system’s efficiency by wasting a significant amount of cooled air. They can also allow dust, mold and other contaminants to blow into your home through the vents, reducing indoor air quality.
It’s crucial to have a professional conduct a proper ductwork assessment to check for leaks, blockages, missing insulation and sizing. An evaluation helps ensure the ducts are compatible with the new system’s specifications so it can run efficiently, effectively and without strain.
Focusing only on the upfront price of an AC replacement is a common mistake that can lead to higher total costs over the unit’s lifespan. While a cheaper installation may be tempting, it can result in increased energy bills, frequent repairs and premature system failure. Lower-priced units typically have a lower SEER rating, meaning they require more energy to cool your home.
When budgeting for a new AC, instead of focusing on the initial price, evaluate the total lifetime cost of the system. You should choose a high-quality, efficient AC performance for long-term energy savings and lasting performance.
Heating and cooling companies often offer financing solutions and special deals to help you manage the costs. Additionally, utility companies and government programs sometimes offer rebates or tax credits for installing energy-efficient systems.
Improper AC installation can lead to costly problems, such as ineffective cooling, high energy bills, frequent repairs and even a complete system failure. Hiring inexperienced technicians or attempting a DIY solution can result in avoidable mistakes like incorrect wiring or refrigerant leaks, which turn into significant long-term expenses.
Professional installation is the best option for an AC replacement. Working with a certified heating and cooling company is crucial for:
Overlooking permits and warranties during an AC replacement can lead to significant financial, legal and safety risks. In most areas, including Florida, a building permit is required to replace AC systems and ensure they meet safety codes. Ignoring this setup can result in fines, forced removal of the new AC or insurance claim denials.
Warranties help protect your investment, so it’s important to understand and comply with them. A manufacturer’s warranty can be voided by improper installation or lack of maintenance, leaving you liable for repair costs. It’s crucial to ensure the cooling and heating company you choose can secure all necessary permits and that the manufacturer’s warranty is properly registered and maintained.
An AC unit requires routine maintenance for peak operation and longevity. Neglecting to maintain your new system can lead to reduced efficiency, increased energy costs, frequent breakdowns and a shorter lifespan. When replacing your AC, it’s important to factor in future maintenance to make sure you stay on top of upkeep tasks. Professionals can assess your AC and offer maintenance plans to keep the new system running optimally all year round.
One way to avoid common mistakes during AC replacement is to entrust the project to the professionals at Strada Air Conditioning & Heating. As a family-owned company with decades of experience, we are dedicated to providing reliable AC replacement services to help maintain comfort in your home.
Our team can guide you through the selection process, ensuring you choose the right size of unit for your cooling needs. Schedule a service appointment today to start planning your AC replacement project with our experts.
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.
