How much money can i save by changing my a/c units that are outside?

Question

i have 2 separate units for my house one for upstairs and one for downstairs. i was wondering how much money can i save if i replaced those with new ones that are energy star approved. my old units are about 14 years old and my summer month electricity bills are like 500 dollars each month. i want to know how much money i can save if i change them with new ones for example like a trane or something like that.

Answer 1

your units shoud be in the 8-10 SEER range.

the current minimum is 13 SEER.

a 16 SEER should cut your bill by approx.  33 to 50%

the higher the SEER number, the more efficient it is and the more it costs.

my opinion, the trane unit is the best out there. you're gonna pay for it. they aren't cheap. but you get your moneys worth.

Answer 2

Replace your air conditioners with open windows and trees and you will save a bundle!

Answer 3

You should save 20-30% if it is a well designed system and set up right. Trane is good.

Make sure your house is tight and well insulated, or you may not see much savings.

Answer 4

We don't have ac and get along quite fine by opening and closing windows at appropriate times and the use of fans.  People seem very spoiled these days.

Answer 5

In the short run you would not save anything by changing to a central air conditioning unit.

What you are really asking for is a full energy remodel to your home.  It would start with stripping the sheet rock off the inside of your exterior walls and install high grade insulation R-13 or better.

Then you have to install duct work throughout your home and install the central heating, ventilation and air conditioning unit.  

If you have the credit at this time you can get a second mortgage on your house and the savings from your utility bill will pay the second mortgage.  You can also at this time install a tankless water heater, maybe solar components and energy star appliances.

Your local utility company can help you with rebate, tax credits, energy surveys and finding a reputable contractor.

Answer 6

You might also want to have some one do an energy survey of your home (sometimes your power company will do it for free) It may be more cost effective to improve your home's energy efficiency.... also an AC "tune up" can do wonders...