Is one half of your cooling system bringing you down? Although you may be tempted to only replace the ailing side of the unit, it’s important to understand that matching split-system A/C sides is an absolute must.
Here’s a closer look at how you and your HVAC contractor can match your equipment for maximum efficiency and longevity.
Matching split-system A/C sides is the key to performance
Think you can replace a problem A/C component with just any unit? Guess again. Consider the fact that your split-system A/C was designed with indoor and outdoor components that are intended to work together for peak efficiency and effectiveness. Unless those components are compatible, your system won’t be able to live up to its potential.
But what constitutes a good match? Here are two elements that must be identical in order for your A/C sides to work well together.
- Refrigerant — Your current system probably uses R-22 refrigerant, but this agent is currently being phased out. Instead, manufacturers are designing cooling equipment that relies on EPA-approved refrigerants like R-410A. A unit that uses R-410A cannot be integrated into a system that uses a different refrigerant. Attempting to do so could yield disastrous consequences, ranging from a decrease in system efficiency to issues as severe as the premature failure of your equipment.
- SEER ratings — What’s the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) rating of your current equipment? If it’s less than 13, you won’t be able to find a compatible replacement unit. As of 2006, all cooling equipment is required to have a minimum SEER of 13. And don’t make the mistake of believing that installing one high-efficiency component to work with a lower-SEER unit will raise system efficiency. Conversely, the difference in efficiency ratings will stress the system, resulting in higher energy bills and an increased risk for expensive repairs.
For more information on matching split-system A/C sides, contact the professionals at Davis Air Conditioning & Heating. We proudly serve Houston, Angleton, Ft. Bend, Galveston, Sugar Lane, Brazoria and surrounding areas.
