Are today's air conditioners more efficient than 10-20 years ago?

Air conditioners have definitely come a long way in the last 10-20 years. They’re more efficient and can save you money on your energy bill, so if your current air conditioner is over 10 years old it’s definitely worth considering an upgrade.

In general, the average lifespan of a HVAC (Heating, Ventilation & air conditioning) is 15 to 20 years.

However, should your air conditioner have frequent running issues, and your energy bills are skyrocketing, this may just be an indicator your air con needs replacing sooner.

In 2001 the Australian government introduced the minimum energy performance standards (MEPS) for three-phase air conditioners, then in 2004 for single-phase units, since then air conditioners have become much more efficient and energy-saving. Even the most efficient air conditioners sold in 2003 would not meet the current minimum standards today.

With ever-evolving technologies, advanced designs and materials, air conditioners sold today will achieve much higher energy efficiency, including higher performance in the cooling and heating exchange, along with a much quieter operating system. This is largely based on the big improvements to the design of the compressor, this is achieved by using more powerful magnets than in the older superseded models.

Daikin air conditioner comparison 2010 to 2020

In 2020 the CO2 emissions for residential air conditioners were reduced by 19% and for commercial by 26% compared to the life cycle CO2 emissions 10 years earlier.

Overall, by upgrading to a new more energy-efficient air conditioner, you can be confident your new air conditioner is providing you with the comfort every household deserves, including lower energy bills and the knowledge you are playing a part in reducing greenhouse emissions.

More great reasons to upgrade your current air conditioner

• A small AC unit in a large room will use excess energy trying to either cool or heat the area, alternatively, a larger style air conditioner in a small room will produce energy overkill. Therefore it is imperative your unit is the correct size for the area or room.
• Air filter technology has come a long way in the past few years. Air conditioners with advanced filters are ideal for people with asthma and respiratory issues, as the new filters remove everything from bacteria, mould spores, dust and odours and other allergens from the air before they can enter your home.
• Aesthetically, new air conditioning units are sleeker, smaller and more stylish, therefore making them a pleasing addition to your room and home.
• Many new models boast whisper quiet operation, inside and outside of your home.
• Government rebates may be available when you upgrade your old air conditioner with a new energy-efficient model (depending on your state).

With this in mind, upgrading your current air conditioner may very well be one of the most beneficial decisions you will make for yourself and your family, including your budget.

If you have an older air conditioner and are unsure if you should replace it, give All Purpose Air Conditioning a call on 1300 405 295 for a professional appraisal of your current climate control system.