Downtown Summerlin – A Fun Escape West of Las Vegas

The Strip might be where most of the action happens in Las Vegas, but it’s not the only place to visit when you’re in the city. To the west of Sin City is the suburbs of Summerlin where you can find a number of entertainment and shopping options away from the crowd.

Downtown Summerlin is the community’s main shopping, dining, and entertainment district. This 400-acre (160 ha) commercial and residential neighborhood located in the heart of Summerlin and hosts a number of luxury and retail shops, bars, and restaurants, as well as the Las Vegas Ballpark (future home of the Las Vegas 51s minor league baseball team) and the City National Arena (practice facility for the Vegas Golden Knights NHL and home arena of the UNLV Rebels hockey program). The Downtown Summerlin neighborhood also includes the Downtown Summerlin Shopping Center and the nine-story office tower One Summerlin, The Red Rock Casino, Resort & Spa, and the apartment complex Constellation.

Local events are held in Downtown Summerlin throughout the year. Popular events include outdoor fitness classes, a number of farmers’ markets, wine and bar walks, holiday festivals, music and arts festivals, concerts, and visits from celebrities and guest speakers for talks, seminars, and conventions. 

The Downtown Summerlin Shopping Center

The Downtown Summerlin Shopping Center is an outdoor entertainment, fashion, and retail district, founded by the Howard Hughes Corporation. Opening in October 9, 2014, the 106-acre, 1.6 million square foot development features over 125 stores and restaurants with entertainment, luxury dining and shopping options, as well as a 9-story office building. Popular retailers include Macy’s, American eagle, Forever 21, Old Navy, and Foot Locker. The Downtown Summerlin Shopping Center also has a full service movie theater.  

One Summerlin

One Summerlin is a 9-story office building in Downtown Summerlin which offers tenants a close proximity to a wide dining, retail, entertainment, and hospitality options. This is a prime spot for offices since it’s located directly in the center of Summerlin’s business district and it also offers a great view of Red Rock and the Strip.

The Red Rock Casino, Resort & Spa

Red Rock Resort is a hotel and casino owned and operated by Station Casinos. The resort is located on a 59.43-acre (24.05 ha) area and is Station Casinos’ flagship property. The hotel offers a great place to stay with all the amenities you need for a fun and relaxing vacation. If the casinos at the strip are a little too crowded for your taste, check out the casino at Red Rock. It offers all the games a casino at the Strip has without the crowd. The hotel stands out since there are not a lot of tall structures around the area. Its tower is the second tallest building in Summerlin and the company’s corporate headquarters is also located on the property.

The City National Arena

City National Arena is the practice facility and team headquarters of the Vegas Golden Knights of the National Hockey League. City National Arena opened on September 18, 2017 and houses the headquarters for the team, a team store, and some restaurants among other features. The arena is also the home arena for the UNLV Rebels hockey program, the Las Vegas Cavalry of the Mountain West Hockey League, and the Junior Golden Knights.

The Las Vegas Ballpark

This $150 million baseball stadium is still under construction and will be the new home of the Las Vegas 51s of the Triple-A Pacific Coast League. Construction of the stadium began in early 2018 and is expected to be completed in time for the 2019 baseball season. It will serve as a replacement for the team’s current home at Cashman Field, where the team has resided since 1983. The ballpark is estimated to have a capacity of 10,000 people and is owned by the Howard Hughes Corporation.

Constellation at Downtown Summerlin

This premiere luxury apartment community offers contemporary living that’s steps away from entertainment, shopping, and dining. Units at the Constellation boast modern designs, state-of-the-art appliances, and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

Although Summerlin might seem like just another sleepy suburb, there are a number of things to do here. Downtown Summerlin offers a nice escape from the busy and fast pace environment of the Strip without compromising fun. If you want a more relaxed visit to Las Vegas, consider staying or visiting Summerlin.

Sources:

https://www.downtownsummerlin.com/
https://redrock.sclv.com/
https://www.citynationalarenavegas.com/
https://www.thelvballpark.com/

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A HVAC Maintenance Checklist to Help You Prepare for Winter in Vegas

Thought living in Las Vegas would spare you the hassle of winter weather preparation? Odds are, you’re not the only one.

Despite what many Vegas residents may think, even with much milder winters, Las Vegas still experiences colder weather. That means it’s essential to have proper HVAC maintenance before things cool off.

Don’t worry, with our simple HVAC maintenance checklist, you can get winter weather preparation out of the way fast and sit back and enjoy the lovely Vegas winter temps.

Your HVAC Maintenance Checklist

Before you get started on an HVAC maintenance checklist, give your system a test. Try turning on your heater and make sure warm air is flowing properly from every vent.

You don’t want to wait until the cold weather arrives to realize that your system isn’t working.

1. Get your HVAC System Inspected and Serviced

This step is especially important to do before Jack Frost’s arrival if you tested your HVAC system and found issues with it. The key to this step is hiring a licensed professional to take a look and make sure there are not problems with your system.

A licensed professional can also perform a routine service to make sure all parts and aspects of your heating unit are in good condition so you don’t have a more expensive repair needed later on.

Unfortunately, you may have had the experience where an HVAC repair person gave you a rather high estimate for a repair or part. If you have any doubt about the necessity or expense of the repair they claim you need, it’s wise to seek a free second opinion before cracking open your wallet.

2. Check the Filters

If you decide to do a little more investigating on your own before calling a professional, you can start by inspecting your heater filter.

Your furnace won’t be able to function properly if it can’t “breathe.”

If your furnace hasn’t been serviced in a while (which is recommended to do regularly), or inspected, one very common issue is to have a saturated filter. Ew. For best results from your HVAC system, it’s recommended to clean your filters every month.

The easiest way to check if your filter is fresh, clean, and ready for proper use, is to remove it and hold it up to the light. If you cannot see through the filter, it’s time to clean it or buy a new one.

If you haven’t already, go buy a pleated, high-efficiency filter. These are much more effective and can even grab the tiny particles with an electrostatic charge that cause bacteria.

However, be aware to never turn on your furnace while a filter is not in place.

3. Clear Space

Another common mistake homeowners make when it comes to furnaces is stacking storage bins or boxes close around. Sometimes your furnace is in a location inside or outside the home where this might seem like a natural thing to do.

Resist the temptation.

Stacking boxes or anything else around a furnace can be a major fire hazard or at best, inhibit your furnace from functioning properly.

If you have to place something nearby, give at least 2 feet of space between the item and your HVAC system.

If you can’t remember the last time you checked out where your furnace is located, or whether there is anything in close proximity to it, it’s definitely wise to take a look before the cold weather prompts you to turn it on.

4. Use a Humidifier

Especially in Nevada, where the climate is already deadly dry, winters can be brutal. Having your heat running without a humidifier in your home can do even more damage to your health and comfort.

Before you start running your furnace this winter, if you don’t already own one, purchase and install a quality humidifier.

A humidifier will help ensure warmth in the home as well as keep you healthy and comfortable during the especially dry winter months. Not only this, but a good humidifier will also protect any woodwork you have in your home.

During the summer months, shut off the water to your furnace humidifier.

When you’re ready to turn on the heat in your home, be sure to replace the wick filter in the humidifier and set it somewhere between 35-40% humidity. Then, turn on the water supply.

Luckily, most professionals are able to check the operation of your humidifier when they come, in addition to servicing and inspecting your HVAC system.

Kill two birds with one stone and enjoy a more comfortable holiday season by having them do both.

5. Clear Debris

When you’re out doing yard work, especially in the fall, it can be tempting to finish mowing your lawn or blowing leaves and leave it at that.

However, in preparation for winter and to prolong the life of your HVAC system, be sure to check that there are no leaves, grass, twigs, or any other kind of debris stuck to your units before calling it good.

6. Check for Clogs

At least annually, it’s wise to take a look down your air conditioner condensate drain to make sure there is no mold or algae growing.

Such growth can cause clogs, and while some folks may come up with their own home remedies for clearing such growth, be wary of putting anything down the drain without professional help.

More Tips

This HVAC maintenance checklist should provide you with a great, basic, start for preparing your system for the lovely Las Vegas winter weather.

A few other simple tips to try include:

• Check that your AC unit and furnace are on level ground. Especially outdoor units that may be subject to ground weathering.
• Once a month, take a look at your insulation and refrigerant lines. If they are damaged, replace them.
• Don’t put added strain on your HVAC system by closing any more than 20 percent of your home’s registers.

Your Best Defense

In a state where temperatures get extreme quickly, having a trusted professional for all things HVAC related is vital.

Luckily, we offer a 24-hour emergency service and repair so you can get back to comfort ASAP.

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Is it Hot in Here? 10 Signs of a Broken Air Conditioner

Nevada consumers paid 0.10 cents less for every kilowatt-hour of electricity they used in May 2018. That’s from 12.15 cents in May 2017.

Although that’s a considerable reduction, it’s still quite a hefty price, especially considering that U.S. households consume about 897 kilowatt hours (kWh) every month.

This means the average Nevada bill came up to about $108 per household during that month.

And you know what? Almost half of that came from your space heater/cooler. More if you have a broken air conditioner (or heater)!

That’s right. A malfunctioning AC eats up even more energy than usual. What’s more, it still can’t give you the cooling you need even as it brings your electricity bills higher.

All these said, it’s best you know the signs your air conditioner needs repair. This way, you can get it fixed ASAP before it gives you even more headaches.

1. It’s Become More Like a Heater

If your air conditioner starts to blow warm air rather than refreshing cool air, take that as a sign it needs repairs. A common reason for this problem is a faulty compressor.

Whichever the case is, you want to have the issue fixed. Especially before the Vegas summer’s 100-degree (or even higher) Fahrenheit temp rolls in.

2. Little to Almost No Air Out of the Vents

Homeowners in the U.S. spend somewhere around $3,700 to $7,200 to have a new AC installed. Whether your expenses fall on the lower or higher end of this range, it still means you spent thousands of dollars for your space cooler.

Now, you didn’t shell out that kind of money to have weak to almost no cool air coming out of it, did you? As such, if you notice weak airflow from your air conditioner, it’s time to have a pro look at it.

Don’t worry if it’s the dead of the night or the wee hours of the morning. You’ll find reputable AC repair specialists on call, round-the-clock.

3. AC Turns Off on Its Own

A ghost isn’t the culprit when this happens. However, you’d want to have an HVAC technician check out the unit. It’s possible the thermostat can no longer gauge whether the unit works or not.

A thermostat needing replacement requires know-how of the AC’s mechanical and electrical components. This is one task you shouldn’t DIY as one slight mistake can damage the rest of the equipment’s sensitive parts.

4. Unit Doesn’t Power On

Say that the power is on but your air conditioner still doesn’t turn on. It’s possible that you’re dealing with a busted wall outlet, so see if you can plug the AC somewhere else. If it still doesn’t power on, then you may have a broken thermostat.

Again, this is one of the signs your AC needs repair. Have an expert HVAC tech give the unit a careful inspection to determine what’s causing the problem. From there he/she can figure out the cause and apply the necessary repairs.

5. Loud and Weird Noises

Hear squeals or grinding noises from your air conditioner? Or maybe odd scraping sounds? Whichever the case, your AC shouldn’t produce them.

A possible cause is a broken belt or one that has come loose. It’s a serious issue that needs addressing right away. That’s because a busted belt can slap away at other parts, causing even more serious damage.

6. Bad Odors

If your air conditioner reminds you of the unpleasant smells of a gym’s changing room, then you have a major issue in your hands. The same goes true if it gives off the odors of burning rubber or moldy bread.

A broken AC unit that produces smells like these needs repairs ASAP. If you smell burning, that may indicate burnt wire insulation. Pungent, musty odors can mean mold that may put you and your family at health risk.

Contact an HVAC repair technician right away before your entire air conditioner goes out or starts causing health issues.

7. Freon Leaks

Older air conditioners (those manufactured before 2003) make use of the R22 refrigerant. You most likely know this as “Freon”. It’s responsible for generating the cold air your AC blows.

But not without a price.

Freon, a chlorofluorocarbon (CFC), has contributed to the destruction of the ozone layer. By that, we mean the 65% depletion of this layer protecting us from the sun’s deadly ultraviolet radiation.

It’s for this reason that the Montreal Protocol now exists. It’s a law phasing out Freon amongst other ozone-depleting substances.

If your AC starts leaking out this substance, it’s time to call in the repair experts. In fact, you should already consider having the unit replaced.

For starters, because the refrigerant’s production and importation will come to a complete halt by January 01, 2020. But the biggest reason is the environmental and health hazards associated with it. Remember, it’s toxic both to Mother Nature and humans.

8. Shocking Electric Bills

During the warmer season, it’s normal for your electricity bills to go up due to increased and prolonged AC use. However, if your bill gives you a complete shock even with only regular use, then it’s time to contact an HVAC tech.

There are many possible reasons for this greater energy consumption, such as a busted thermostat or leaks in the ductwork. It may also mean that your space cooler has reached the end of its service life.

Whatever the case, it’s best to have a pro diagnose the problem. This way, you can determine whether a repair or a replacement is the better choice.

9. Too Humid Inside Even When You Have the AC On

Air conditioners cool the air inside buildings by also minimizing humidity. With Vegas’ hot and humid weather conditions, this is a necessary feature. So, when you notice that even with the cooler on, it’s still humid inside your home, take that as a sign it needs repairs.

10. Old and Cranky

Typical ACs can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years. Now, say your air conditioner is about to celebrate its 10th birthday without giving you any major issues. That doesn’t mean you have to replace it right there and then.

It does mean you should have it tuned up by a pro though. Failure to do so can give rise to all the issues we’ve mentioned above. Through proper maintenance and servicing, it can perform at its peak efficiency, giving you even more years of service.

A Broken Air Conditioner Won’t Fix Itself

A broken air conditioner doesn’t always warrant a replacement. But you need to address these issues right away since delays in repair will only make the problems worse. Remember, ACs are electrical equipment, which means they can cause hazards like fire and electrical burns.

If you notice any or many of the symptoms above, please feel free to connect with us. We can help you have your air conditioner working at its best again.

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Dirty coils are an AC killer

If you ever wondered why your favorite air conditioning repair man harps on you about changing your air filters regularly you’re about to find out.

Much of the time when we service an air conditioning system for a customer we find that they are fairly regimented about replacing their filters. Most people know to replace their filters at least once a month during the hot summer season and once or twice during the winter. This seems to work fine for homes in Las Vegas. But when you don’t follow this regiment you will find yourself with a coil that cannot be cleaned.

“The junk that sticks to the AC coil is pretty nasty stuff”

When a coil is allowed to build up dust lent dirt pet dander pet hair and skin without cleaning it will eventually pull this debris deeper inside the fence of the coil. If left alone within a couple of Seasons it will be in bed it’s so deep that there is no way to clean the coil. We see this all the time. More often we see this in rental properties. This very fact is why many air conditioners will fail.

What are The Tell-Tale signs of a dirty coils?

1. ​During the hottest part of the summer the air conditioner will run Non-Stop.
2. ​​Reduced ​air flow coming through the registers.
3. Icing of the coil especially on humid days. ​This will reduce air flow from the ducts.
4. There is a musty odder coming from the vents.
5. The presence of dust bunnies at the corners of the supply registers.

What the Landlords need to know about Air conditioning maintenance.

In my limited experience I find that tenants like to keep the property at about 72 degrees. Some even colder. This drives the utility cost way up. In some cases as much as $100 additional each month for a single condominium. Compound this low thermostat setting with bad air flow caused by a stopped up coil and you have a recipe for an air conditioner that will never shut off day or night and will never work as well as the tenant prefers.

If you are a landlord or property owner that leases your home or condominium in Las Vegas Henderson of North Las Vegas it is a good idea to check to ensure that the air filters are changed several times a year. At least three or four times is the minimum that you can get away with. If you are not able to keep up with this yourself, do yourself a favor and get a filter service company on the job.

” The air conditioning life you save, may be your own “

 

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Cross contamination saga mixing R22 and 410a

Last Air conditioning season we had a call from a customer that used there home in Henderson as a vacation home for the past 5 years. 3 years ago they called out a company to fix what turned out to be a low refrigerant problem on 2 units along with a leak repairs. Though they made several complaints afterwards about it not cooling well and had 2 other companies come out for 8 additional visits, there was never a solution offered. The only solution offered was “you need new AC systems” Then last June they called Fast Affordable Air.

Find the needle

Before we did our evaluation we were told upfront about the 3 year saga. When we got there we noticed that the 2 Ac systems had an 8 and 11 degree temperature split. 18 degrees would have been okay and 20 would have been perfect. So we checked the refrigerant pressures. The Vapor Saturation on the R22 scale was dead on at 40. Liquid side was 122. Then we tested the static pressure and the WC was spot on for each. The amps were fine on all motors and by all rights these was a great air conditioner. Then we found it. Or should I say the girls in the office found it.

Right there in black and pink ( the carbon copy receipt)

We had her email over all the receipts for everything that had ever been done to the system. The customer even had the original inspection report from when they bought it. After spend 4 hours trying to track down the problem in 10 minutes of reviewing receipts, there it was. A charge for 13 lbs of 410a.

For 3 years these r22 systems had been running on 410a. The polyester oil was mixed with the mineral oil and the best that it could do is an 8 to 12 degree split. Did it damage the compressor? We still are not sure.

The solution

We pumped the system down but didn’t see much point to clearing the lines. We recharged the unit with fresh R22. After dialing in the pressures we got a 20 degree temperature split. We told the customer that it might not last much longer and said we would follow up with her next season if it didn’t die sooner. Here we are one year later and the unit is still working like it was brand new. Are you shocked because I am.

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AC Repair : How Long Do Air Conditioners Last Before You Should Replace Them?

Good air conditioning is extremely important for residents of Las Vegas and surrounding areas, especially during the summer months. This July was the second hottest month in recorded history for the Las Vegas Valley, which means air conditioners were put to the test.

When enduring this kind of heat, the last thing you need is to come home to a malfunctioning AC unit. The best way to avoid this is by keeping up with routine maintenance.

However, sometimes air conditioners simply bite the dust.

The best way to avoid a surprise breakdown is to understand when it’s time for a replacement. You’re probably asking yourself, “How long do air conditioners last.” If so, keep reading.

We’re going over some warnings signs it’s time for an air conditioner replacement.

How Long Do Air Conditioners Last?

When your air conditioner has problems, your first inclination is probably to have it repaired. However, there’s a point when repairs stop being worth the money and hassle.

The typical air conditioner unit has a lifespan of around 10 to 15 years. If you’re starting to have frequent issues and your unit is this old, it’s probably time for a full replacement.

Caring for your unit will increase its lifespan. In fact, having yearly tune-ups may help you get a few more years out of your AC.

Other things you can do to increase its lifespan include changing the filters regularly, having your ducts cleaned, and turning it off when you’re not home.

However, if you’ve done your best to maintain your unit and it’s still having issues, you may need to consider replacing it. There’s a good chance you’ll end up saving money in the long run.

AC Efficiency

An air conditioner is one of the most costly appliances in your home. This is more evident in the summer months when bills start to rise.

In order to keep costs as low as possible, your unit needs to run at maximum efficiency. If it’s working too hard, you’ll end up throwing money away every month.

The efficiency of your air conditioner is a good indicator of whether it’s time for a replacement. You need to ask yourself whether making repairs will actually make your unit run more efficiently than a new one.

Unfortunately, this can be a hard question to answer. You may want to have an AC professional come out and give you their opinion. A quick inspection will tell them whether it’s time to replace your unit or not.

In addition to monthly energy bills, the efficiency of your AC will affect how comfortable it is in your home. If you’re constantly struggling to keep the temperature down, investing in a new unit will certainly make things more pleasant.

Are Your Repair Costs Rising?

Every AC unit is going to run into problems. However, when the cost of repairs start becoming outrageous, it’s probably better to go ahead and invest in a replacement.

For many people, getting a new unit is the last thing they want to do. Let’s face it, they’re not cheap. However, at some point, you’re better off getting a replacement AC rather than throwing away your money on repairs.

This is especially true when you start experiencing more substantial, costly malfunctions. Routine tune-ups are relatively cheap, but when major components start to break down, your repairs bills can quickly get out of hand.

Things such as home AC compressor and evaporator coil replacement can be quite expensive. If you’re also having frequent leaks, it may be time to throw in the towel on your current unit.

Repair or Replace

Now comes the difficult question. Should you continue with repairs or opt for a replacement?

AC repairs are always the cheaper option. However, they only provide a temporary fix.

If your unit is still at the beginning of its lifespan, repairs should be sufficient. Just remember to work with qualified technicians.

However, if your AC is nearing the 10-year mark and has frequent issues, you may need a replacement. At this point, you’re no longer seeing a return on investment with repairs.

The great thing about a new air conditioner is it will come with a warranty. This means you’ll enjoy a more comfortable home without having to pay out-of-pocket for repairs.

The decision comes down to whether you want to make the investment a new unit requires.

To help you out, let’s look at some signs your air conditioner is no longer functioning to the best of its ability.

Air Temperature is Inconsistent

Older AC units may maintain a healthy airflow, but if the temperature is inconsistent with your thermostat settings, you have a problem.

If you frequently notice warm or room-temperature air on the cool setting, there may be an issue with the compressor. You could also have a refrigerant leak.

Weak Air Flow

If your old AC is no longer producing a strong, steady flow of air, it may be time for a new unit.

If you notice your home isn’t cooling as quickly or effectively as it once did, your unit may be giving out. Unfortunately, it’s probably overworking itself, which results in increased energy bills.

Your Unit is Noisy

The more efficient the AC, the less noise it makes. If you suddenly notice your unit is louder, this could be a sign it’s at the end of its lifespan.

You may also notice rattling, grinding or whining sounds. This means there could be a serious issue with a major component.

Strange Smells

If you notice strange odors when your AC runs, you could have a serious problem. This could present a health threat, so call a technician right away.

Strange smells could mean problems with your unit’s insulation or a mold issue.

Enjoy A Cooler Home with an AC Replacement

If we’ve cleared up your question, “How long do air conditioners last,” it’s time to make a big decision. Investing in a replacement will not only reduce your monthly energy bills, it will help your Las Vegas home stay cool in this hot region.

If you’ve decided to try to get a few more years out of your current unit, make sure you have routine tune-ups performed.

We provide AC repair and installation service in Las Vegas and surrounding areas. Check out your options for a new unit.

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HVAC Repair - When To Call In The Professionals

 

In many parts of this country, life without air conditioning would be extremely uncomfortable for many months of the year. Here are some tips to keep your HVAC system running smoothly.

With a reasonable amount of preventive maintenance, you can keep your home cool during the summer and avoid an exorbitant electric bill at the same time. This includes regular upkeep performed by you as well as yearly inspection by an HVAC expert in order to prevent further problems. Find out what is required to extend the life of your system.

Although getting AC repair for smaller issues will help keep costs to a minimum, you should do your part to improve its cooling efficiency by performing routine maintenance on it yourself. The exterior of the air conditioning unit should be kept free of debris to keep the air flowing freely, thereby preventing damage to the compressor. You should apply lubricating oil to the motor and clean the evaporator coil and condenser coil for optimal functioning. The drain line collects and drains condensed water away from the unit, and you should inspect it for any signs of blockage, such as algae or debris, as well as checking the hoses to make sure they are properly secured. To avoid strain on the motor, you should wash or replace the air filters at least monthly and close the air vents when the air conditioner is not in use.

The end of winter is the perfect time to have your air conditioning unit inspected and serviced to make sure there are no problems prior to the summer as many HVAC repairmen charge a premium for service calls then. Any needed AC repair can also be done at that time since there are potential fire hazards if it is not done properly. Unfortunately, necessary repairs are sometimes put off because money is tight, although it is more economical to fix small problems before they turn into big ones. In the mean time, your energy bills will likely be increasing, not to mention your unit may be incurring serious damage with continued use. It is certainly worth it to check the paperwork that came with the system to see if it is still under warranty, in which case most, if not all, of the cost of the repair would be covered.

At some point in time, usually 10 to 12 years, it may be necessary to replace the entire system. Although this is rather expensive, the cost effectiveness of replacement should be considered, such as the energy savings involved. For example, if you have an older model, it probably has a SEER of 7; in comparison, new models have a minimum SEER of 13, so a new unit will save you about 50% on your air conditioning costs and 15% to 20% on your overall energy bill. You should also consider how much you spend annually on AC repairs and add that amount to your projected savings. In addition, you might be able to use the 2011 energy tax credit, thereby saving on your taxes.

If you take good care of your cooling system, you can expect it to work well for several years, keeping you comfortable during the heat of summer without breaking the bank. You can perform most of the simple maintenance required yourself at little to no cost, only needing the help of an HVAC professional for yearly servicing or when major AC repair is needed.

Source:  HVAC Repair - When To Call In The Professionals