Spring AC action

Source: "5 things to know about buying, caring for central air-conditioning" by Barbara Mahany of the Chicago Tribune - syndicated on dallasnews.com.

Barbara Mahany explains that since it is Spring (in most parts of the country...for as long as the weather cooperates) that it is the perfect time to start thinking about summer air conditioning...and whether or not your present way of managing is going to handle the heat of another summer.

She gives 5 simple things to think about, that will help determine if you should care for your existing unit or prepare for buying a new one.

Her #1 "Montreal Protocol" She discusses what the Montreal Protocol actually is and why it is beginning to affect homeowners. This helps to determine whether or not you need a new unit...or should start thinking about it. Many air conditioners use R-22 (a refrigerant) to help cool down your home. This refrigerant uses a chlorine base and is very harmful to the ozone. As part of the Montreal Protocol it is being phased out. This will begin to affect pricing and availability of a necessary air conditioning component. If you are currently running R-22, you might want to consider whether or not you should upgrade now...or later, because you will eventually be forced to...when prices aren't so favorable.

#2 - "ditch the chlorine" speaks to pretty much what I just explained and goes hand in hand with #1 -however, for information, please peruse her original article (available when clicking the title of this post).

#3 - "how much energy efficiency can you afford" This section examines the higher costs of a more efficient unit compared with the savings from the unit using less energy. Sometimes, if you go for a high/mid level efficiency, your unit can be paid for in reduction of energy bills in a very short time. It is a good idea to talk to a HVAC contractor and see what the pay off ratio is for your unit. You might be surprised, efficiency can save you a lot of money.

#4 & #5 talk about money as well...the suggestion not to "skimp" on the installation and energy efficiency rating if at all possible. The benefits way outweigh the costs.

For more information please visit: www.energystar.gov or read the initial article at: http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/fea/home/stories/031709dnlivair.1016600.html

And afterall, there is a plethora of information located on our own site: www.sinclairair.com - especially under the information page - FAQ to your heart's content and study some necessary jargon.