Is upgrading your A/C units from 10 seer to 13 seer really worth it (how much)

[wileynj]

I've been getting alot of calls from folks wanting to upgrade their existing central air conditioning equipment to more efficient, higher seer units. Most existing systems out there today are 10 seer and the new code is 13 seer. I started this thread to educate people and see if I can't save you all who are thinking of upgrading a few bucks : ) If you live in the south, it's definatley worth it but for us NJ folk, it will take years before you will see a return on your investment. Upgrading from a 10 seer unit to a 13 seer unit only saves you about 30% on your electric bill. My electric bill typically goes up by maybe $40.00/month in the summer once the A/C goes on. 30% is only $12.00/month and most of us only use our system for 3 months out of the year. Now..if you have a really old system... less than 10 seer, I would recommend upgrading - otherwise, "if it ain't broke, don't fix it!". Or if you have to upgrade because your existing system is dead, then go even higher than 13 seer as I'm sure the code will change again in the next five years. I hope this thread helped someone out : )

[Stone28]

I appreciate it. My unit is on its last legs. I hate to see it go, it runs very quite. I've been on peoples decks while they had their unit running and you had to yell to have someone hear you.

[wileynj]

Originally Posted by Stone28

I appreciate it. My unit is on its last legs. I hate to see it go, it runs very quite. I've been on peoples decks while they had their unit running and you had to yell to have someone hear you.

If you have to upgrade, then go with an even higher seer than 13. The new units are so, so quiet! And go with a unit that uses R410A vs. R22 Freon. It will be the "norm" in a few years. We typically go with Rheem units... the replacement parts are universal and most repairman/woman : ) have the part on the truck vs. having to order it which means potentially being without A/C for a few days. Just my 2 cents : )

[Merle Lewis]

My home is about 23 years old and my air conditioner is not cooling the upstairs, even after having someone out to replace parts. I want to get a new one. How much do you think a Rheem would run me? How do I know who to trust to install it?