Are you at a point where it’s time to replace your air conditioner? Have you seen some of the new air conditioning systems designed to reduce energy consumption while maintaining a cool home? Ductless air conditioners have increased dramatically in the last decade, even though Mitsubishi created them in the late 1950s. Fortunately, modern updates have reduced the overhead expenses, and ductless AC is more affordable than ever. Which system is best for your home, your budget, and your cooling needs? R&D Heating and Air is here to help you understand how to choose the right system for your home.

Price

Initially, people always want to know the price of a ductless AC or a traditional central air conditioner. Which one should you choose? If you opt for price alone, a standard central air conditioner is usually priced lower than a ductless one. What we recommend you consider is the cost over time as you look at both options. Ductless mini-splits cost less to operate, and they require less maintenance from a standard air conditioner. Also, ductless AC systems do not use as much energy to operate, saving homeowners hundreds of dollars yearly on energy bills.

Installation

Central air conditioners and ductless AC systems work differently and require different installations to work correctly. If you do not have air ducts in your home, additional costs and work are needed to allow a central air conditioner to push air throughout the home. Ductless air conditioners are easier to install as they are installed on the wall in strategic locations to provide effective cooling. An outdoor compressor is used to provide refrigerant to the unit, which is installed through the home’s walls.

Temperature Control

Keeping control over the temperature in the home is important to most homeowners. It’s awful when the upstairs is several degrees warmer from the lower levels of the home. When you have a warmer upstairs, it can place additional stress on the central air conditioner to cool this area, which can then keep cooling the rest of the home, leaving your basement or lower levels frigid just to enjoy a cooler upstairs! Ductless AC units will focus on controlling the temperature in individual rooms. This means you can keep the rooms you do not use warmer, allowing you to save money on your home’s energy bills.

Lifespan

How long with the air conditioner last? Long-term efficiency is vital when determining which system is right for your home. Central air conditioners normally last 12-15 years, but some can last longer. Ductless AC systems can last 20 years or longer and are more efficient. Call our office to discuss air conditioner replacement and determine if ductless AC or traditional AC units are best for your needs.

Air conditioners are an important part of owning a home. No matter where you are located in Utah, you will end up dealing with heat several months out of the year. Let R&D Heating and Air keep your home cool and comfortable with modern air conditioning solutions!

Utah weather has been quite interesting in 2021 so far! Many customers have called recently to ask about their air conditioners and when they should turn them on. While it may be early in the spring, now is the time to start working on your air conditioner so it is ready to tackle the triple-digit temperatures we can experience in Utah. Here are some things you can do to start preparing your AC system for summer.

Change Air Filters

One of the best things you can do for the air conditioner is to change the air filters. Depending upon the type of air filter you have, change it as recommended by the manufacturer. Some systems have disposable filters, while others have washable filters. According to the Department of Energy, air filters need to be replaced every month or at least every other month for proper airflow and cleaner air.

Clean Around the Air Conditioner

While some people don’t mind seeing some leaves inside and around the air conditioner, debris like this can hurt your air conditioner. We recommend taking a few minutes to remove debris around the air conditioner to draw outside air correctly. Also, read your owner’s manual to determine if you can open the side door and remove any debris located inside the unit. The air conditioner coils can collect dust and can cause an air conditioner to run slowly. Cleaning the exterior and interior helps keep the entire system free of debris that can cause serious problems.

We recommend cleaning the pipe that moves condensation away from the air conditioner, so it doesn’t get clogged and lead to serious repairs.

Change Your Thermostat

A modern thermostat is a great way to reduce energy consumption and reduce stress and strain on the air conditioner. A new programmable thermostat can reduce how much air conditioning is used to cool the home. We can install a new smart thermostat in your home to help you effectively manage your cooling needs.

Fix Ductwork Leaks

A major issue homeowners face is lost energy consumption. If you have ductwork leaks, it can cause your air conditioner to work harder than necessary to keep the home cold. Look for separated pieces or hones in the ductwork and seal them properly to keep the entire home cooler and place less stress on your air conditioner.

Call R&D Heating and Air to schedule your spring AC tune-up so you can beat the heat this summer!

The HVAC system can make up 29% or more of your home’s energy bill. The longer your HVAC system goes without being serviced properly, the more energy it can start to consume due to excessive wear and tear. With an annual HVAC system, homeowners can save thousands of dollars on repair or replacement costs down the road. With energy consumption on the rise, take the time to do your part to lower your energy usage by keeping your HVAC system tuned up and running properly. Here are some reasons why an HVAC tune-up can benefit your home;

1. Save Money
2. Reduce Energy Consumption
3. Increase HVAC System Lifespan
4. Avoid Expensive Repairs or Replacement
5. Prepare for Peak Usage
6. Improve Your Home

Save Money on HVAC Costs

When you take the time to have your HVAC system tuned up annually, you will benefit from a lower monthly utility cost. We often find that simple upkeep and maintenance work helps the entire system run efficiently and reduces strain on the fan, motor, and more. Simple things like a clogged air filter can lead to a complete system failure as it forces the blower motor to work harder to continue circulating the air. Taking the time to change your air filter frequently is a small thing you can do to keep your HVAC system running at its peak level. During an HVAC system tune-up, R&D Heating and Air will perform a complete system test and look for signs of concerns that could impact your HVAC system in the future. We want to help our customers be prepared for repairs or replacement needs, so they aren’t blindsided by the costs of installing a new furnace or air conditioner.

Reduce Energy Consumption

Debris, dust, mold, and other airborne particles can cause your HVAC system to work harder. Excessive blockage within the system forces everything to work harder, causing parts to wear out quickly. Without effective maintenance, ongoing system stress can increase energy consumption and eventually force the system to break down and wear out sooner than it could.

Increase HVAC System Lifespan

An outdated HVAC system struggles to work as efficiently as it could. Outdated systems can increase your energy bill as they work harder to heat and cool your home. Simple updates can help an older system perform better, such as installing a new programmable thermostat. Our experts can identify common energy pits with regular maintenance that cause your HVAC system to use more energy than it needs. On average, furnace and air conditioners last 12-15 years, but we see some last upwards of 20 years due to proper maintenance.

Avoid Expensive Repairs or Replacement

Procrastinating simple things like changing a furnace filter will eventually take its toll on your HVAC system. Most homeowners do not think about their heating and cooling system until there is a problem. Failure to deal with minor tune-ups will eventually snowball into a major issue, often requiring a complete furnace or air conditioner replacement. Avoid future issues by having R&D Heating and Air test your HVAC system annually and fix problems before they become expensive and overwhelming!

Prepare for Peak Usage

When you schedule your HVAC tune-up in off-season hours, you can benefit from faster service and lower rates. During peak season, it can take several days before experts can repair the problems you are facing. Preparing ahead of time allows you to maintain your system and limit the risk of the HVAC system crashing during holidays or in the middle of July and August heat!

Improve Your Home

With annual HVAC system tune-ups, R&D Heating and Air can improve your home by detecting serious issues like harmful gases that leak into the home. Also, dust, dander, and mold can circulate through the home if it is not cleaned and kept free of debris. Let us help your family breathe easier by scheduling your HVAC system tune-up today, 801-436-5213.