Low-Rate Air Conditioner Problems

Additional Installation Work

• If you are replacing an older air conditioner with a new, low-rate version that has a high efficiency percentage, you can expect some extra installation work to be involved. The older air conditioner may have been fitted for different ductwork than the new system. You might have to switch out your vents as well, or at least alter vent attachments and venting, so that the new system will work.

Sizing

• Air conditioners must be sized correctly for the amount of space they are cooling. You can buy a low-rate air conditioner that has an excellent price and good efficiency, but if you do not size it to your house, the benefits will quickly be lost. If the air conditioner is too powerful for your house, it will start and stop in short cycles; if it is too weak, it will run overlong. Either way, you'll start losing money on utility bills.

Repair Issues

• If you are looking to save money on electricity and energy rates, a new air conditioner can help you over time. But if something goes wrong with one of these high-efficiency units, repairs may be more costly than with traditional units. Modern air conditioners have additional components and complexity that can result in higher repair bills. A low-rate air conditioner may help you save money but then return you to the same financial position with a costly repair.

Maintenance

• It does not matter what type of air conditioner you have, you still need to maintain it correctly. If the air conditioner has dirty coils or fins, if your refrigerant is leaking or if your motors are old, then the low-rate air conditioner can lose what efficiency it had in the first place. Check your air conditioner at least once a year to make sure it is clean and working properly.