With proper maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or greater. But even the best maintained air conditioner will need to be removed eventually.

When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Alliance, we know that cost is at the top of your list of questions. The good news is that installing a new air conditioner might be more affordable than you are aware, thanks to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also get better energy efficiency, which will typically pay off over the years through cheaper electricity bills.

Here’s what to anticipate when you’re replacing your air conditioner.

When to Replace Your Air Conditioner

Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner might be tricky. Here’s what we recommend.

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 regular maintenance. We recommend getting ready for air conditioning replacement close to the 10-year mark. Even if you install a new one when it’s only a decade old, the U.S. Department of Energy says this change could save you 20-40% on cooling bills.
  • You’ve skipped regular maintenance for a long time. Just like a car, your cooling system needs routine air conditioning maintenance. Skipping this critical service can result in decreased efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a shorter life span.
  • Your air conditioner has to have frequent or expensive repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the result of skipping tune-ups But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to suffer a catastrophic problem. When repairs are greater than half the cost of a new air conditioner, it’s time to get a new one.
  • Your residence feels unpleasant. If your home feels too muggy or you’re dealing with hot and cold spots in given rooms, your air conditioner could be struggling to keep up. This is a clue it’s time to replace it.
  • Your utility bills are high. Your air conditioner loses efficiency as it ages. Consequently, it might need to run more frequently or longer to keep your home at your desired temp. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your home comfy and utility costs reasonable.
  • Your air conditioner runs on R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was purchased before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it uses Freon. Also called R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being produced because of its bad effects on the environment. You can keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to develop a refrigerant leak, repairing that would be extraordinarily expensive. This is since R-22 is only available in limited, recycled portions.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is under 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s best to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t common or economical. The wisest way to avoid unexpected repairs is to have regular service completed. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are economical, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner is covered by a warranty. Most air conditioners include a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that usually covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length depends on your manufacturer, but it gives valuable protection in the event of a major failure. If your air conditioner is under warranty, we recommend fixing it.

Air Conditioner Cost

Most homeowners spend around $4,631 on a new air conditioner, based on national averages compiled by HomeGuide. Air conditioner cost averages often range from $3,350 to $5,912, but your exact cost {might|could|may] be lower or higher.

There are several factors that impact your total cost, such as:

  • The air conditioner model you choose, as more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
  • The size you need.
  • If you need to install new ductwork, which can be needed if your ductwork is aging or inefficient.

We give free estimates at Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces so you can be sure you’re getting a good deal. And with our wide range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that fits just about any budget.

Air Conditioner Size

Air conditioner size is essential. A system that’s undersized won’t be able to keep your home cool. And one that’s too big might turn on and off too often, or short cycle. This behavior can drive up your energy costs and wear your air conditioner out faster. This could also cause temperature inconsistencies and make your house feel less cool.

At Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces, our professionals have many years of experience in properly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your house. The size you need depends on how big your home is, plus several other considerations. Some of the most typical 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 considerations that can affect air conditioner size are:

  • The weather in Alliance.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your house has and the style, as large or picture windows can be lower efficiency.
  • If your house has more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and depth.
  • How many people are in your household.

SEER Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is linked to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This ranking measures how well it transforms electricity to create cooling. The higher the number, the more efficient the air conditioner is.

When you’re installing a new air conditioner, it’s crucial to be aware:

  • Dated air conditioners are ranked around 8-9 SEER.
  • Modern air conditioners start at 13 SEER. Ones installed in the southwest and southeast must be no less than 14 SEER due to U.S. Department of Energy requirements. 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 have additional features to help you save more. These features may entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of running at 100% continuously, these air conditioners can reduce blower speeds based on your cooling requirements. This leads to quieter and more energy-efficient cooling. While an air conditioner with a greater SEER rating is usually higher priced, it could be eligible for more rebates. And the energy savings over its life span could help it pay for itself.

Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces Today

When you’re planning for air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as essential as the model you go with. Jack's Heating, Cooling, Stoves & Fireplaces is one of the number one names for air conditioning installation in Alliance. From helping you choose the right solution for your home to discussing financing options to professional installation, working with our pros is a breeze. Reach us at 308-321-4703 to begin today!