Quote:
Originally Posted by EdFNJ
While a high SEER unit will definitely save electric billl somewhat I wonder how many years it will take to recoup the price difference? Don't forget, people around here aren't likely to be around for "the life of the (new) unit". 
Of course it depends on how much electric you use but my computed SECO AVERAGE bill for 2021 was $1651/12=137.58 (2/2 1200 sq ft) with 2 highest months around $280. We keep temp at 78 all day and 71 between midnight and 7:30am. We still have the original 14 SEER circa 2009 Carrier unit that was here when we moved in in 2017. I have changed the compressor capacitor 3 times in close to 6 years and the AH capacitor 1 time at about $10 or less each and it's still going strong (KNOCK WOOD, PLASTIC METAL and anything else around). How much could I REALLY save with a super high efficiency model (other than what the salesmen tell you). I'm 75. I believe I'll be pushing up daisies before the savings is covered. No, I don't care about the next owners whoever they are. Sometimes I think the SEER rating is just a bit overplayed simply to sell a more expensive system. Kind of like the EPA mileage ratings of a vehicle. Even if I saved 20% ($330) over a year I can't see the reason to invest a couple of thousand more up front. |
There is no shortage of information. Much of what people think they know comes from people interested in selling you stuff. I was impressed, perhaps reading between the lines,
the original poster asked the people who service their 13 year old system and they told them, replacing the unit is not justified.
Our builder supplied unit is a carrier and it is 9 years old. It is marked SEER 15. I expect it falls off over time. I wonder if it ever was SEER 15. I did ask a quote EXPERT. Changing to a SEER 18 roughly 15% up (14.4) would save you 10% at most. The newer units run multi speeds so can do a better job of removing humidity, a large part of air CONDITIONING.
You might be as comfortable at a higher temperature.
PARTS. Nothing lasts forever. The multispeed fan and compressor are far more expensive.
Truth our system is working WELL. Wise to have the money available that gives you options.
It is still running AND I'M STILL RUNNING. Ok TRUTH I do ride a bike. Running? Running hurdles I would need to walk around them-hope no one is looking.