Quote:
Originally Posted by jrref
That's exactly what I mean. The builder did put in the most basic system available at the time. Luckily 15 SEER was the norm circa 2015-2016 so yes they are solid units. But they could have installed 2 stage units which would have been a lot more efficient, cheaper to run, and more appropriate to install in our hot Florida climate but were more expensive to install. Fortunately, if you purchase a new home from the builder you can get the basic single stage, multi stage ( I think it's a 2 or 5 stage unit) or a variable speed unit. Just different cost to run each system. We are kind of lucky that electric here in Florida is relatively cheap or HVAC efficiency would be more of a concern. But how long will our electric stay relatively cheap?
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We did a custom build and opted NOT for the cheapest unit, but the next model up for the humidity monitoring, if I remember correctly. But given today's more spec house type of operations and pricing environment, I would expect the cheapest unit would be installed.
Most A/C units have a standard life of 15 years, though that is an average and can vary by mfg and model. It is not a guarantee, and your A/C will work until it doesn't.
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though the following link does not have A/Cs, the link shows the decrease in expected lifespan from 10 years ago
Home Appliance Life Expectancy Chart | Mr. Appliance
So, for A/Cs, over 15 years, you are starting to live on borrowed time, and the best time to replace the unit is in the winter, so that you don't have a summer time emergency, especially when one might be away
good luck to us!