When replacing A/C components in a split-system air conditioner, it’s important to ensure that the two main components, the indoor evaporator and the outdoor condensing unit, match correctly. While the best option is to replace the entire system, which guarantees that the components match, this isn’t always within your budget. If you have a split-system air conditioner and need to repair rather than replace it, make sure you look at three main factors to ensure a true fit. These include:
- Efficiency rating: The SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) of both the indoor and outdoor parts needs to match for it to function correctly when replacing A/C components. Currently, newly manufactured A/C units must have a SEER number of at least 13. If your unit was installed before 2006, it likely has a much lower SEER, which means the new component will not match.
- Size: The size of the components must be a solid match. If your outdoor condenser and indoor evaporator are rated for different sized homes or buildings, the efficiency of the combined system will be compromised.
- Refrigerant: The indoor and outdoor parts of your system must use the same refrigerant. The type of refrigerant is designated with an R and a numerical value. R-22 was the old standard, while R-410A is the new one. Equipment designed to operate with one of these formulas won’t work efficiently or effectively with equipment designed for the other
According to the Air Conditioning Contractors of America, failing to match components will greatly decrease the efficiency of your system. This means you will be spending more on energy costs when you run your air conditioner. Also, improperly matched components can lead to premature failure of the system, requiring early replacement. By matching parts properly when replacing A/C components, you will avoid an unnecessary replacement cost.
If your air conditioner needs replacement parts in your Fresno area home, don’t run the risk of buying the wrong type. Contact Donald P. Dick Air Conditioning to talk to an experienced HVAC contractor who can help you make the right decision. With close to 40 years of experience, our company knows how to find the perfect parts for your HVAC system, so you can repair it without sacrificing efficiency.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in the greater Fresno, California area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about replacing A/C components and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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