Patty and I have been on an information gathering journey with an experience at the end of each chapter. We decided that I would share those experiences with readers because they had to do with home repairs and remodeling.
The age old question that faces everyone is this one. It has three parts: Who knows what they are doing, will they do a good job, and will they charge me a fair price? As a result of our experiences, we were able to provide some good information for you to use. (Those articles are in previous blogs)
The single most costly expense we had was replacing our central air-heat system. Out of some seven contractors that gave us bids, we chose Quigley, and it was definitely a fine choice.
Now it's several electric service bills later, and I want you to know that it is obvious the savings in electricity usage that we have gained from the new system will pay for it in full in less than three years. On top of that, since it came with a warranty, we will save an additional $600 a year that we were spending on repairs to keep the old one running.
What's my point? It is simply this: If your AC system is five years old or more, you probably ought to evaluate if you should change it out now. It's highly possible your energy bill savings will pay for it.
BILL CHERRY, REALTORS
DALLAS
OUR 44TH YEAR SELLING AMERICA!
214 503-8563
1-800-314-7110
Bill - You are correct. The newer models will absolutely save you some serious dollars. We have a Coop. that will offer rebates at certain times of the year when you purchase a new system. We also repalced our screens with solar screens earlier this summer that has added to a substantial savings.
Systems should last 10-15 years. They started about that time ago being energy efficient. They are constantly making them better, just like other things. But that is an expensive update every 5 years.
Carl and Ceil, we had big floor to ceiling windows on the southeast side of our Galveston home because they overlooked the water. And they were those double-paned things. But they still brought in a tremendous amount of radiant heat.
So for a handful of bucks we put up solar screens. What a difference! You're exactly right. They really make a difference. Thanks for reminding me about this and telling the others.
Sherry, my piece was unclear. Thanks for pointing it out. What I was trying to convey was if, today, your a/c central unit is 5 years or more in age, you ought to get it professionally evaluated. The jury is out on whether or not you need to do it that frequently thereafter.
Yes, it's a big expense but it sure is nice to be warm! Replaced the one at my office a few years back - bill was lower and the rooms stayed warmer.
Eileen, thanks for adding your experience. Frankly, I was shocked to see how much our new system saved.