Learn about modern air conditioning advancements that improve comfort, convenience, and efficiency for luxury homeowners in NYC.
7 features & technologies to look for in modern air conditioning
If your AC is getting up there in years and not performing like it used to, you’re probably considering a replacement in the not-to-distant future. Most residential systems last 10 to 15 years, so you probably haven’t shopped for AC equipment for a while. Things have changed! Here’s what to look for.
1. Variable stage compressors
Chances are, your older air conditioner is a single-stage (also called “single speed”) system. That means it always runs at full blast: 100 percent capacity.
Have you noticed your system turning on and off frequently when the temp is just above your set temperature? It’s not uncommon for a single-stage system to start and stop as many as 70 times in a day. The startup process uses a lot of electricity and increases wear on the parts, so single-stage systems waste energy and don’t last as long. They are also noisy and can cause drafty conditions when fans operate at full speed.
A variable-stage system (also called a VRF system) can run at the exact capacity needed for the current conditions. These modern air conditioning systems offer benefits that really matter to homeowners:
- More consistent temperatures
- Ability to create zones with different cooling requirements
- Better humidity control
- Less blowing and noise from fans and compressors
- Lower electricity bills
Learn more>
HVAC for Luxury Residences: Why You Need VRF Technology
2. Noise reduction options
Tired of getting woken up from a sound sleep by your AC turning on? In addition to the quieter operation offered by variable-stage systems, you can also turn down AC noise with new technology designed to muffle the sound of air blowing through the ducts. There are a variety of options now available including:
- Wrapping ducts with fiberglass insulation
- New duct materials (such as flex duct) that are less noisy than sheet metal
- Installing sound blankets and baffles
- Sound attenuators or “duct silencers” installed inside the ducts
3. Heat pumps: single systems that heat and cool
Heat pumps are systems that can provide both heating and cooling in your home. They are essentially air conditioners that can work in reverse to provide heat.
Heat pumps are not exactly new, in fact they have been the HVAC systems of choice in the southern US for decades. In the past, though, they weren’t used as much here in NYC because they couldn’t provide adequate heat in cold climates. However, that’s changed. Today’s heat pumps have new technology that can provide excellent comfort conditions, including humidity control. And they’re energy efficient so they will save you money on your utility bills.
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What is a heat pump and how does it work?
4. Mini splits: zoned AC without ducts
If you live in an older building where you can’t install ducts, you might have thought you’d have to live with window air conditioners. That’s no longer the case.
Mini-splits are modern air conditioning systems that work without ducts. You do need a small unit installed in each room or area. But they don’t have to block your windows. They’re small, unobtrusive boxes installed in the ceiling or on a wall, and they don’t have to be eyesores!
Because they consist of multiple small units, you can also use mini splits to create a zoned system. That means you can have some areas warmer and others cooler.
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5. Integrated air purification
Since the pandemic, and more recently the Canadian wildfires wreaking havoc on our air quality, we have all become more aware of the dangers lurking in the air we breathe. Now you no longer have to have ugly air purifiers in each room to have safer indoor air.
You can have air purification systems installed directly into your HVAC system. That means the air that circulates through your HVAC and your home is constantly filtered and dangerous contaminants removed with UV and other modern technologies.
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What Does an HVAC Air Purifier Do?
6. Smart thermostats
Are you still turning your thermostat up and down manually? It may not seem like a big deal, but you’ll find that smart HVAC controls that let you “set it and forget it” are well worth a very small investment:
- Create a temperature schedule based on your schedule and needs
- Adjust your AC in seconds from your smartphone (like when you’re coming home early and hate walking into a hot apartment)
- Adjust the temperature without getting up or interrupting what you’re doing!
- Save money by lowering your AC when nobody is home
Learn more>
Smart Thermostat Reviews: Nest, Honeywell & ecobee
7. More durable components
If you’re like most homeowners, you’re not eager to purchase new home systems every few years. You want them to last. New modern air conditioning equipment is designed to last as long as possible.
In particular, outdoor units that can degrade with long-term exposure to the elements are now being made with more durable materials. Look for units with rust-proof base bans, cabinets, and fasteners.
Don’t wait for an emergency to get modern air conditioning
If you’re concerned about your air conditioning system, don’t wait for it to break down completely. You don’t want to be rushed into a decision in an emergency. Plus, if it happens during a heat wave you might have to live without AC for weeks.
Now is the time to consider your options and make the best choice for your needs. If you own a luxury residence in Manhattan, contact Arista today. We have decades of experience providing top-notch service to elite homeowners. You’ll be glad you did!