Do you know a way to calculate the savings when comparing heat pumps?

Question

I've heard heat pumps usually last about 15-20 years and mine is now 16 years old, but running fine. In an attempt to be proactive and environmentally conscious, is there a way to determine if upgrading to a newer unit would be a wise investment? Would it lower my utility bills enough to justify upgrading?

Answer 1

A/C is rated in SEER units. The higher the SEER the more efficient the unit. A high SEER unit will lower your electric bill.

Check this link:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seasonal_en...

Answer 2

You can do some close estimating of savings by comparing the power consumption in amperes per btu of your unit to the same figures for a new one.  

  However, the short answer (and probably correct) is that you can't possibly save enough by changing units to come out ahead in dollars spent for the next umpteen years.  When you face spending money to repair you old unit will be the economically sound time to figure cost savings of a new unit.