Why upgrading your HVAC system could cut your energy bills

Investing in new heating and air conditioning equipment can lower your monthly costs, reduce repairs, and even improve your indoor air quality.

Why upgrading your HVAC system could cut your energy bills
This article was written in collaboration with Burgeson's Heating, A/C, Electrical, Solar & Plumbing.

New heating and air conditioning systems are important investments. It can be difficult to determine when the timing is right. While buying new equipment can be costly initially, replacing an old or malfunctioning HVAC system can actually save you money.

If your current equipment is running up your electricity bill or functioning poorly, it may be time to consider purchasing something new. Before you begin shopping for a replacement, here are some important things to know about replacing your heating and air conditioning system.

New Systems Are More Efficient

Older AC units have lower efficiency ratings, known as SEER ratings. SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the AC unit. The highest-rated AC units available today are 26 SEER. Twenty years ago, the top of the line was 18 SEER, but the standard was just 13.

The Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating is typically used to measure furnace efficiency. Standard furnaces have AFUE ratings between 80% and 85%, while high-efficiency furnaces have ratings from 90% to 98.6%. The higher the AFUE rating, the more efficient the furnace.

If your HVAC equipment is outdated, it may not be running as efficiently as it could be. An older system with a lower rating needs more power to generate cool or warm air. The more power used, the higher your energy bills will be each month.

Size also matters when it comes to your new system. A licensed and experienced HVAC advisor should perform a load calculation, which is the industry’s method of determining what size (tonnage) equipment your home requires. Undersized or oversized HVAC equipment will also lead to inefficient temperature control.

Your advisor should also inspect the air ducts your system has in place to make sure they are designed well for optimal airflow and are in good working condition.

New Units Reduce the Need for Repairs

Maintenance appointments can help your heating and air conditioning system run efficiently for many years. However, older units typically need more care and attention than newer systems.

There are a few things you can do to improve the lifespan of your HVAC equipment, including following a proper maintenance schedule. However, even with the right care, heating and AC units will age. If you’re constantly calling to schedule a repair or your electricity bills are higher than they’ve been in the past, it may be a sign you need a newer, more efficient model.

By purchasing a new heating and air conditioning system for your home, your HVAC should run smoothly and efficiently with regularly scheduled biannual maintenance for years.

Newer Systems May Come With Incentives

For an additional return on your investment, you may qualify for rebates or discounts when you upgrade to a new HVAC system. While there are qualifications to be eligible for some incentives, a more energy-efficient system can save you serious cash.

Utility and manufacturer rebates, as well as other discounts, can provide significant savings depending on the SEER rating of the equipment purchased.

Additional Benefits of a New HVAC System

If you are still on the fence about a new HVAC system, here are some additional benefits an upgrade can offer:

  • Higher energy efficiency and better airflow throughout your home or business.
  • Less noise compared to older, clunkier units.
  • The ability to control your system with smart thermostats, often paired with your smartphone.
  • Improved indoor air quality (IAQ) when combined with an air filtration and purification system, helping reduce potentially harmful particles and odors from the air you breathe.

Replacing Your HVAC System With Burgeson's

When considering replacing your old heating and air conditioning system, we recommend speaking with a professional 'comfort advisor'. With the right guidance and assistance, you can invest in new HVAC equipment that can save energy and money on utility bills each month.

As HVAC experts serving San Bernardino and Riverside counties, Burgeson's Heating, A/C, Electrical, Solar & Plumbing will guide you through the process of selecting and purchasing a new HVAC system. Burgeson's can also provide you with a service maintenance plan to keep your new system running as efficiently — and cost-effectively — as possible.

For help selecting the right system for your home, contact Burgeson's at 909-792-2222 to schedule a free in-home quote. As the leading experts in the Inland Empire, "Your Comfort Is Our Business."

Burgeson's Heating and AC Services

This article was written in collaboration with Burgeson's Heating, A/C, Electrical, Solar & Plumbing, a proud sponsor of Community Forward Redlands. While the content reflects expert insights provided by our sponsor, all editorial standards of accuracy and clarity have been maintained.

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