With adequate maintenance, your air conditioner can run for 15 years or more. But even the most meticulously maintained air conditioner will need to be updated down the road.
When you’re starting to plan for air conditioning installation in Logan, we are aware that the price is at the top of your list of questions. The good news is that getting a new air conditioner could be more reasonable than you think it is, thanks to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also receive improved energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over time through less expensive electricity bills.
Here’s what to prepare for when you’re getting a new air conditioner.
When to Replace Your Air Conditioner
Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner may be difficult. Here’s what we suggest.
Replace
- Your air conditioner is more than 10 years old. While some may work longer, many air conditioners last for around 15 years with routine maintenance. We advise getting ready for air conditioning replacement near the 10-year age. Even if you replace it when it’s only a decade old, the U.S. Department of Energy says this tweak could save you 20-40% on cooling costs.
- You’ve avoided routine maintenance for many years. Similar to a car, you cooling system requires routine air conditioning maintenance. Skipping this critical service can cause reduced efficiency, more frequent repairs and even a reduced life span.
- Your air conditioner needs frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is usually the result of overlooking maintenance. But as your air conditioner gets old, it’s more likely to experience a major breakdown. When repairs are more than half the cost of a new air conditioner, it’s time to get a new one.
- Your home isn’t comfortable. If your home feels too humid or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in given spaces, your air conditioner may be struggling to keep up. This is a hint it’s time to replace it.
- Your cooling bills are high. Your air conditioner becomes less efficient as it gets older. Consequently, it could need to operate more repeatedly or longer to keep your residence at your desired temp. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your residence comfy and cooling costs reasonable.
- Your air conditioner runs on R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was replaced before 2010, there’s a good chance it runs on Freon. Also referred to as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being made because of its bad effects on the environment. You can keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to have a refrigerant leak, fixing that would be extraordinarly expensive. This is since R-22 is only available in limited, recycled quantities.
Repair
- Your air conditioner is less than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s best to repair it.
- Repairs are infrequent or economical. The wisest way to prevent unanticipated repairs is to have routine work done. But when repairs are only needed not very often or are reasonable, repair your air conditioner.
- Your air conditioner is under 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 provides valuable protection in the event of a huge failure. If your air conditioner is protected by 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 vary.
There are a couple of factors that impact your total cost, including:
- The air conditioner model you choose, as more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
- The size your home needs.
- If you need to replace your ductwork, which can happen if your ductwork is old or inefficient.
We provide free estimates at Western Mechanical, Inc. so you can be confident 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 crucial. A system that’s too small will struggle to keep your residence cool. And one that’s too big might turn on and off too often, or short cycle. This action can increase your utility costs and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This could also lead to temperature variability and make your house feel less comfortable.
At Western Mechanical, Inc., our techs have many years of experience in properly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your home. The ideal size depends on how spacious your home is, plus a couple other factors. Some of the most standard 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 Logan
- Ductwork quality and age
- How many windows your home has and the style, since big or picture windows might be less efficient
- If your house receives more sun or shade
- Insulation quality and depth
- How many people are in your family
SEER Ratings
Your air conditioner’s efficiency is impacted by its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This number measures how well it uses electricity to create cooling. The higher the ranking, the more efficient the air conditioner is.
When you’re buying a new air conditioner, it’s important to know:
- Old air conditioners are ranked 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 come with more features to help you save more. These features may entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of going at full blast continuously, these air conditioners can fine-tune blower speeds customized for your cooling requirements. This leads to quieter and more energy-efficient cooling. While an air conditioner with a better SEER rating is often pricier, it could be eligible for additional rebates. And the energy savings over its life span could help it pay for itself.
Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Western Mechanical, Inc. Now
When you’re researching air conditioning replacement, the company who puts it in is just as critical as the model you choose. Western Mechanical, Inc. is one of the most trusted names for air conditioning installation in Logan. From helping you select the ideal solution for your residence to discussing financing options to professional installation, partnering with our professionals is a breeze. Call us at 435-753-5515 to get started now!