With 14 seer as the lowest efficacy that can be installed in Arizona, is there a return for the cost of higher efficacy systems in a residual setting?
Depends on utility costs, weather, direct replacement costs, usage, and the structure they service.
I like the higher efficiency AC’s because I can match them to furnaces and air handlers with ECM and variable speed blowers. Most of the major brands have airflow ramping and low constant airflow that can help temper hot areas of the home by keeping the air moving. The higher efficiency AC’s are usually 2-stage or variable speed, which increases comfort and maintains the home’s temperature at lower speeds (less electricity).
However, the home’s “shell” should be analyzed and issues repaired before investing in any type of system. I have reduced some homes’ cooling needs by 1-ton with air-sealing and insulation: smaller AC=smaller investment and less electricity and longer life and better comfort because the “on/off/on/off” is eliminated.
A qualified and experienced technician who cares about your comfort, safety, and budget can find and explain all of the parameters needed for ANY air conditioner. A lot of us don’t just do “swap-outs” which are cheap installations but are expensive investments.
High Efficiency systems can save you money depending on how much you pay for the system and if all the systems match to give you the highest SEER. Just because a unit says it is 16 SEER, it does not mean it will meet that SEER without having the proper equipment. I honestly do not believe it is worth getting a HE system unless your house is properly sealed and insulated. Old duct work can also effect your output if it has any leaks or kinks. Go with a licensed insured professional and ask questions to make sure that they are also knowledgeable.
Yes. Between the lower electric bill and the tax incentives on your annual refund, it’s paid for in no time. It has many other noteworthy benefits. Check out the blog on ecosmarthvac.com.
Yes they are if chosen correctly. Utilities aren’t going to get any cheaper in the future and higher efficiency systems generally provide more comfort (depends on brand). My advice is not to get stuck on the seer rating; look at the whole system. A 16 seer 2 stage condenser matched with a variable speed furnace will be more efficient (and most likely cheaper) than a 18 seer single stage condenser matched with a 96% single speed furnace. Also pay attention to the controls that are being used. The wrong thermostat on a system will kill efficiency.
There is more to it than just efficiency. Many higher efficiency units come with premium features and longer warranties. Features like high and low pressure safety devices can cut off a unit before severe damage takes place allowing for the unit to last longer. They are generally quieter due to premium fan blades, fan motors and compressor blankets. Our Trane high efficiency units have an additional 2 year warranty on the compressor which is the most expensive component. High efficiency systems can also provide more even temperatures in the home with features like 2-stage or variable speed operation. This allows the unit to run longer at a very low energy consumption during lower heat load conditions and ramp up during the hottest part of the day. By increasing run-time (while decreasing electric usage) temperatures will be more even throughout the home. An added benefit is a decrease in humidity level which is why you can set the thermostat at a higher temperature and still feel much cooler than a single stage system which can leave the home feeling muggy or clammy. On smaller single story homes, a properly sized single stage usually works well and a higher efficiency may not get a good payback on energy usage but may win with features and longevity. This is why we recommend getting a quality contractor to discuss all of the features and assess your home to provide you with all of your options.
Richard York
Certified BPI Building Analyst
Nate Certified A/C, Heat Pump, Gas Furnace
Carbon Monoxide Analyst
The short answer would be yes without getting into the operational nuisances. Now one must take into consideration the size of the system and the area in which its located (hours of operation per year). In South Florida we put our mechanical equipment to the test. The temperature coupled with the humidity really puts’ a load on the system.
In South Florida 2,800 hours annually is considered to be the average. Ten years being the average life expectancy.
A three ton 17.0 SEER system costs $630.00 per year to operate bases on (10.6 cents per kWh)
A three ton 14.0 SEER system costs $760.00 per year to operate $130.00 per year difference
Now lets look at the cost difference 14.0 SEER average system cost is $2,900.00 when you increase the SEER to 17.0 the cost increases to $3,700.00 these are retail prices and may vary but the ratios are the same. The initial cost difference is $800.00. The operational cost difference works out to about $11.00 per month or .37 cents a day. Looks like about 72 months to get even. So the last four years of the equipment’s life which by this time is not running at full capacity or efficiency its starts to pay dividends.