You need a new AC unit. That’s not great. Whether your current unit is dead or just too old to be worth maintaining, buying a new one is a significant expense. However, while no one likes parting ways with big chunks of money, there is a silver lining here. Shopping for a new unit today means you get to enjoy a wealth of useful features and conveniences.
Here are some useful features you should keep an eye out for when shopping for your next AC unit.
1 – Variable-Speed Compressor
One of the most valuable advancements in air conditioning technology is the variable-speed compressor. Unlike traditional units that operate at a fixed speed, a variable-speed compressor can adjust its output to match the cooling demand, providing more precise temperature control and improved energy efficiency.
The benefits of a variable-speed compressor are manifold. Firstly, it helps maintain a consistent indoor temperature, avoiding the frequent temperature fluctuations common with older units. Secondly, it reduces energy consumption by running at lower speeds when full power is not needed, which translates to lower electricity bills. Lastly, it minimizes wear and tear on the system, potentially extending the lifespan of your AC unit.
Do some research on the compressor before buying a new unit. Or talk about it with your friendly Denver AC replacement technician when you’re ready to make the upgrade.
2 – Wi-Fi and App Connectivity
Being able to control your AC unit with an app can provide a ton of convenience. When implemented well, these smart features can allow you to adjust the temperature, set schedules, and monitor energy usage from anywhere, at any time.
Imagine being able to turn on your AC on your way home from work, ensuring you walk into a perfectly cooled house. Or, if you forget to turn off the AC before leaving for a vacation, you can easily do so from your phone. These smart features not only provide convenience but also help you save energy and money.
That said, the world is full of big companies making absolutely dreadful apps to control their smart appliances. If you’re going with smart, download the app to test it before you buy the device, or read some reviews. It’s also a good idea to make sure app usage is optional, not mandatory. Especially if you’re not a home automation enthusiast.
3 – Auto-Cleaning Functions
Many modern air conditioners come with self-cleaning capabilities that reduce the buildup of dust and debris on the internal components. This feature not only enhances the efficiency of the unit but also improves air quality by preventing the circulation of dust and mold spores.
Auto-cleaning functions typically involve the unit drying out its internal components after each use, which helps prevent the growth of mold and bacteria.
4 – Zoning Capabilities
Zoning allows you to the divide your home into different areas, each with its own temperature control. This means you can cool specific rooms or zones as needed, rather than cooling the entire house, which can be wasteful and inefficient.
This targeted approach not only enhances comfort but also leads to significant energy savings, as you’re not cooling areas that don’t require it. And while zoning features are not that new in the HVAC world, AC units with the feature are becoming more affordable.
5 – Built-in Diagnostics
As you can imagine, a unit with a built-in diagnostics feature can greatly simplify maintenance and troubleshooting. Modern AC units often come with self-diagnostic capabilities that monitor the system’s performance and detect potential issues before they become major problems. These diagnostics can alert you to issues such as refrigerant leaks, blocked filters, or malfunctioning components.
Getting these early warnings can help prevent breakdowns and costly repairs. They also enable service technicians to quickly identify and fix problems, reducing downtime and ensuring your unit runs smoothly.
