With proper maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or longer. But even the best maintained air conditioner will need to be updated at some point.
When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Thedford, we are aware that the price is number one on your list of questions. The silver lining is that getting a new air conditioner might be more reasonable than you realize, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also receive improved energy efficiency, which will typically pay off over its life span through less expensive utility bills.
Here’s what to prepare for when you’re installing a new air conditioner.
The Best Time to Schedule Air Conditioner Replacement
Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner can be difficult. Here’s what our professionals suggest.
Replace
- Your air conditioner is past 10 years old. While some could run longer, the majority of air conditioners run for around 15 years with routine maintenance. We recommend planning for air conditioning replacement around the 10-year age. Even if you get a new one when it’s only a decade old, the U.S. Department of Energy says this tweak could save you 20-40% on cooling expenses.
- You’ve skipped regular maintenance for many years. Similar to a car, your cooling system requires regular air conditioning maintenance. Skipping this crucial service can cause lower efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a decreased life span.
- Your air conditioner has to have frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the consequence of overlooking service But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to experience a catastrophic breakdown. When repairs are higher than half the cost of a new air conditioner, you should get a new one.
- Your home is uncomfortable. If your home feels too sticky or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in given areas, your air conditioner might be having a hard time keeping up. This is a hint you should replace it.
- Your utility bills are expensive. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it ages. Consequently, it may need to operate more frequently or longer to keep your home at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your residence cool and utility expenses reasonable.
- Your air conditioner runs on R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was replaced before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it runs on Freon. Also called R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being made as a result of its bad effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to experience a refrigerant leak, solving that would be extraordinarily expensive. This is due to the fact R-22 is only available in limited, recycled portions.
Repair
- Your air conditioner is under 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s ideal to repair it.
- Repairs are infrequent or economical. The smartest way to stop unanticipated repairs is to have annual maintenance completed. But when repairs are only needed not very often or are inexpensive, repair your air conditioner.
- Your air conditioner is under warranty. Most air conditioners include a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that often covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is up to your manufacturer, but it provides valuable protection in the event of a big failure. If your air conditioner is protected by warranty, we recommend fixing it.
General Estimate of Air Conditioner Cost
Many homeowners spend around $4,631 on a new air conditioner, per national averages compiled by HomeGuide. Air conditioner cost averages often range from $3,350 to $5,912, but your precise cost {might|could|may] be lower or higher.
There are a few factors that influence your total cost, including:
- The air conditioner model you select, since more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
- The size you need.
- If you need to install new ductwork, which can happen if your ductwork is aging or inefficient.
We give free estimates at Taylor's Heating & Air Conditioning so you can be sure you’re getting a great deal. And with our wide range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that works with just about any budget.
Air Conditioner Sizing
Air conditioner size is critical. A system that’s too small won’t be able to keep your residence cool. And one that’s too big may turn on and off too often, or short cycle. This action can inflate your utility expenses and wear your air conditioner out prematurely. This might also lead to temperature inconsistencies and make your home feel less comfy.
At Taylor's Heating & Air Conditioning, our technicians have many years of experience in properly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your house. The ideal size depends on how big your house is, plus several other factors. Some of the most common sizes include:
- 2 ton, which cools up to 1,000 square feet
- 3 ton, which cools up to 1,600 square feet
- 4 ton, which cools up to 1,900 square feet
- 5 ton, which cools more than 2,000 square feet
Other factors that can influence air conditioner size are:
- The temperatures in Thedford.
- Ductwork quality and age.
- How many windows your home has and the style, as big or picture windows can be more inefficient.
- If your residence has more sun or shade.
- Insulation quality and depth.
- How many people live in your home.
SEER Ratings
Your air conditioner’s efficiency is linked to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This rating measures how well it transforms electricity to create cooling. The greater the ranking, the more efficient the air conditioner is.
When you’re getting a new air conditioner, it’s crucial to know:
- Dated air conditioners are rated around 8-9 SEER.
- Modern air conditioners start at 13 SEER. Ones installed in the southwest and southeast must be at least 14 SEER due to U.S. Department of Energy regulations. As of 2017, these SEER rating requirements have saved homeowners trillions of dollars.
- ENERGY STAR®-certified air conditioners begin at 14.5 SEER.
- Higher SEER-rated air conditioners include additional features to help you save more. These features may entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at 100% constantly, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds customized for your cooling requirements. This creates quieter and more energy-efficient comfort. While an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating is usually more expensive, it might be eligible for additional rebates. And the energy savings over its life span might help it pay for itself.
Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Taylor's Heating & Air Conditioning Right Away
When you’re preparing for air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as important as the model you select. Taylor's Heating & Air Conditioning is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Thedford. From helping you find the ideal solution for your home to discussing financing options to professional installation, working with us is a breeze. Call us at 519-296-4437 to begin today!