Evaporative Cooler vs Refrigerated AC
November 18, 2022 By: One Way Heating & Cooling
It's time to talk about the weather. And by that, I mean it's time to talk about air conditioning.
In El Paso, Texas—where the average temperature in July is 100 degrees, and the average temperature in January is 60 degrees—the weather can be pretty unpredictable. But you know what's even more unpredictable? The cost of converting your home's heating and cooling system from a standard AC to a refrigerated air conditioner.
Like there are differences between a package HVAC system and a split system, there are also differences between evaporative coolers and refrigerated AC. That's why we're here today: to talk about what you should expect when considering this kind of switchover at your home or business in El Paso.
Understanding The Difference Between Evaporative Coolers and Refrigerated AC
Evaporative coolers and refrigerated air conditioning systems are both commonplace in El Paso. Evaporative systems are generally easier to maintain and cheaper to operate. Refrigerated units have a higher operating cost but are much better at maintaining a comfortable temperature. An evaporative cooler cannot be set to a specific temperature, which can be problematic during an extremely hot day in El Paso. Many homeowners eventually decide to upgrade to a refrigerated AC.
Factors You Should Consider Before Converting
1. Necessary Size of The Refrigerated AC System
The cost of the system, its installation, and its long-term operating costs are all going to be heavily influenced by the size of the system. If the unit is too small, it won't be able to maintain the target temperature in the various rooms. The system will work overtime, which causes mechanical damage and the need for costly repairs. An oversized AC will cost more upfront and waste more energy than is needed.
2. Does Your House Have an Existing Duct System?
Most modern refrigerated AC systems use a duct system to carry cold air to different rooms. Your house may not have an existing duct system, or it may not be large enough. In these cases, you will have to invest in an upgrade or entirely new ducts.
3. Number of Windows in The House
Windows are responsible for a significant amount of heat loss. Most estimates claim that around 25 percent of all energy used in residential homes is lost through windows. In homes with refrigerated AC units, the unit needs to work harder and longer to maintain a comfortable temperature. It can still be smart to convert to refrigerated units even if you have a lot of large windows, but it will make a difference in the energy bill.
The Process of Refrigerated Air Conversions
Refrigerated AC units rely on the refrigeration cycle to produce cold air. A refrigerant flows through coils inside the indoor unit. Its main purpose is to absorb heat from the air inside the house so it can be dumped outside. The indoor air that passes over the refrigerant coil will lose about 20 degrees Fahrenheit. That cold air is pushed through the ducts, and the house is cooled.
How Much Do Refrigerated Air Conversions Cost?
The air conversion unit costs between $2,000 and $5,000 on average. Larger homes will require larger, more expensive units. With the cost of labor and permit fees included, the average conversion to a new refrigerated system costs between $4,300 and $12,000. Homes on the more expensive end often require extensive changes to their duct system.
Contact One Way Heating and Cooling, LLC For Professional HVAC Installation in El Paso TX
One Way Heating and Cooling, LLC is a family-owned and operated business specializing in residential and commercial HVAC installation. We offer a full range of services for all your heating, cooling, and air quality needs. Our team is available 24/7 to answer any questions you may have. Contact us at 915-525-5737 to get expert HVAC installation in El Paso, TX.
From the moment you call us, you’ll feel like a member of our family. We take great pride in serving our customers and providing them with quality products, timely service, and the best customer service in town.
So why prolong the hot summer months by suffering in your home? Call us today at 915-525-5737 to schedule an appointment and get the comfort you deserve.