Most people realize there are two major components to a central air conditioning unit. The indoor unit (often called the air handler) houses the cooling coil which removes heat as the indoor air is circulated. This unit also includes the blower to move the air throughout the house. The outdoor unit contains the compressor which transfers the heat to the outside air.
Why Both Need to be Replaced
It’s fairly common to have one of the components fail, most often the outside compressor, while the other part of the AC unit is still working correctly. When this happens many Steger, IL and Crown Point, IN homeowners are surprised to learn both components must be included when doing an air conditioner replacement.
It’s All About a Good Match
Indoor and outdoor components must be compatible or else there can be significant problems including:
- Inefficient operation
- Much higher operating costs
- Reduced comfort
- Premature system failure
Here’s how Merts Heating & Air Conditioning likes to explain it: When one component is new and the other is old it’s like pairing a 1990’s monitor to a brand new PC or trying to play video games on your Xbox using a PlayStation controller. Here are some examples of what we’re talking about:
- Know Your SEER
- Any AC replacement will likely have a higher SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating, meaning it’s more efficient than your old one. These days the minimum SEER rating Merts can install is a 14. If your old system wasn’t rated at least that high, the two units will not be compatible.
- R-410A and R-22 Don’t Mix
- Many older AC units still use R-22 refrigerant which is now effectively banned. Any air conditioner replacement will use R-410A and you cannot mix and match components using different refrigerants. Ultimately this change should make you feel good because R-410A AC replacements are much more environmentally friendly.
Focus on the Benefits
It’s easy to focus on the inconvenience and expense of having to replace the entire system. That’s human nature, but Merts assures you focusing on the benefits of an air conditioner replacement will make the process much less stressful. Your new air conditioner will likely be vastly superior to your old one in terms of efficiency and comfort.
Now is the Time to Call
If the AC unit in your Illinois or Northwest Indiana home is on its last legs, or has already failed, call Merts Heating & Air Conditioning now to schedule your no obligation estimate for an AC replacement. Don’t procrastinate because another long, hot summer is about to start. Be sure to like and follow us on Facebook and Twitter for more great HVAC information.