With ample maintenance, your air conditioner can run for 15 years or longer. But even the most well-maintained air conditioner will need to be removed eventually.
When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Tucker, we know that the expense is number one on your list of questions. The bright side is that buying a new air conditioner might be more economical than you think it is, thanks to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also enjoy better energy efficiency, which will likely pay off over its life span through less expensive cooling bills.
Here’s what to expect when you’re getting a new air conditioner.
The Best Time to Schedule Air Conditioner Replacement
Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner may be hard. Here’s what our pros suggest.
Replace
- Your air conditioner is more than 10 years old. While some may run longer, many air conditioners last for around 15 years with routine maintenance. We advise prepping for air conditioning replacement near the 10-year age. Even if you install 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 avoided routine maintenance for a long time. Similar to a car, your cooling system needs annual air conditioning maintenance. Skipping this crucial service can result in decreased efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a shorter life span.
- Your air conditioner needs frequent or expensive repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the outcome of overlooking tune-ups But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to suffer a catastrophic malfunction. When repairs are higher than half the cost of a new air conditioner, we recommend getting a new one.
- Your residence isn’t comfortable. If your home feels too sticky or you’re dealing with hot and cold spots in given areas, your air conditioner may be having a hard time keeping up. This is a sign it’s time to replace it.
- Your energy bills are high. Your air conditioner loses efficiency as it ages. As a consequence, it may need to operate more frequently or longer to keep your house at your desired temp. Newer air conditioners have the most up-to-date energy-efficient technology to keep your house cool and electrical costs low.
- Your air conditioner runs on R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was purchased before 2010, there’s a good chance it has Freon. Also referred to as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being produced because of its detrimental effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to experience a refrigerant leak, fixing that would be very expensive. This is due to the fact R-22 is only available in limited, recycled portions.
Repair
- Your air conditioner is no more than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s ideal to repair it.
- Repairs are infrequent or reasonable. The best way to avoid unanticipated repairs is to have annual work done. But when repairs are only needed every so often or are economical, repair your air conditioner.
- Your air conditioner is under warranty. Most air conditioners are accompanied by 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 protected by warranty, we suggest fixing it.
Average 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 precise cost {might|could|may] vary.
There are a few factors that impact your total cost, such as:
- The air conditioner model you select, as more energy-efficient ones are pricier.
- The size you need.
- If you need to install new ductwork, which can be required if your ductwork is old or inefficient.
We give free estimates at ACS Heating and Air Conditioning so you can know you’re getting a fantastic deal. And with our wide range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that fits just about any budget.
The Size of the AC System
Air conditioner size is critical. A system that’s too small will have difficulty keeping your residence cool. And one that’s too large may turn on and off too often, or short cycle. This act can drive up your energy costs and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This may also cause temperature variability and make your residence feel less comfortable.
At ACS Heating and Air Conditioning, our technicians have many years of experience in properly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your home. The right size depends on how big your home is, in addition to several 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 things that can influence air conditioner size are:
- The temperatures in Tucker.
- Ductwork quality and age.
- How many windows you have and the style, as big or picture windows can be less efficient.
- If your house receives more sun or shade.
- Insulation quality and depth.
- How many people live in your home.
Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratings
Your air conditioner’s efficiency is impacted by its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This rating measures how proficiently it uses electricity to create cooling. The bigger the rating, the more efficient the air conditioner is.
When you’re installing a new air conditioner, it’s crucial to realize:
- Older air conditioners are classified around 8-9 SEER.
- Modern air conditioners start at 13 SEER. Ones installed in the southwest and southeast must be a minimum of 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 have more features to help you save more. These features may include variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at full speed all the time, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds based on your cooling requirements. This creates quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a greater SEER rating is often pricier, it could be eligible for additional rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime may help it pay for itself.
Schedule Your Air Conditioning Installation with ACS Heating and Air Conditioning Now
When you’re planning for air conditioning replacement, the company who puts it in is just as essential as the model you go with. ACS Heating and Air Conditioning is one of the number one names for air conditioning installation in Tucker. From helping you choose the recommended solution for your residence to discussing financing options to professional installation, collaborating with our pros is a breeze. Contact us at 770-450-1539 to get started now!