With proper maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or more. But even the most well-maintained air conditioner will need to be replaced eventually.
When you’re beginning to plan for air conditioning installation in Holdrege, 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 might be more economical than you think it is, thanks to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also get improved energy efficiency, which will likely pay off over its life span through cheaper electricity bills.
Here’s what to anticipate 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 our pros advise.
Replace
- Your air conditioner is more than 10 years old. While some may run longer, many air conditioners work for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We advise 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 routine maintenance for many years. Much like a car, your cooling system needs annual air conditioning maintenance. Skipping this crucial service can lead to decreased efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a decreased life span.
- Your air conditioner requires frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the result of not doing maintenance But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to have a catastrophic breakdown. When repairs are more than half the cost of a new air conditioner, we recommend getting a new one.
- Your residence is uncomfortable. If your house feels too muggy or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in specific areas, your air conditioner may be struggling to keep up. This is a hint you should replace it.
- Your energy bills are costly. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it gets older. Consequently, it could need to work more repeatedly or longer to keep your home at your desired setting. Newer air conditioners have the most up-to-date energy-efficient technology to keep your home comfortable and energy expenses reasonable.
- Your air conditioner runs on R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was installed before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it runs on Freon. Also known as 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 experience a refrigerant leak, repairing that would be extremely expensive. This is due to the fact R-22 is only available in limited, recycled quantities.
Repair
- Your air conditioner is under 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s smartest to repair it.
- Repairs aren’t common or inexpensive. The best way to stop unexpected repairs is to have regular maintenance completed. But when repairs are only needed every so often or are reasonable, 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 big failure. If your air conditioner is under warranty, we advise fixing it.
Air Conditioner Cost
The majority of 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 total cost {might|could|may] vary.
There are a few aspects that affect your total cost, such as:
- The air conditioner model you choose, as more energy-efficient ones are higher priced.
- The size your space needs.
- If you need to replace your ductwork, which can be needed if your ductwork is dated or damaged.
We offer free estimates at Durable Service so you can be sure you’re getting a good deal. And with our complete range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that fits just about any budget.
Air Conditioner Size
Air conditioner size is critical. A system that’s undersized won’t be able to keep your residence cool. And one that’s too big may turn on and off too many times, or short cycle. This action can inflate your energy bill and wear your air conditioner out prematurely. This could also lead to temperature inconsistencies and make your house feel less comfy.
At Durable Service, our techs have many years of experience in correctly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your house. The ideal size depends on how large your home is, along with 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 considerations that can impact air conditioner size are:
- The weather in Holdrege.
- Ductwork quality and age.
- How many windows your house has and the style, since expansive or picture windows can be more inefficient.
- If your home has more sun or shade.
- Insulation quality and thickness.
- How many people live in your home.
SEER Ratings
Your air conditioner’s efficiency is impacted by its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This rating measures how well it transforms electricity to create cooling. The higher the number, the more efficient the air conditioner is.
When you’re getting a new air conditioner, it’s crucial to be aware:
- Old air conditioners are classified around 8-9 SEER.
- New 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 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 extra features to help you save more. These features may involve variable-speed cooling. Instead of running at full speed continuously, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds customized for your cooling preferences. This creates quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a greater SEER rating is usually higher priced, it may be eligible for additional rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime could help it pay for itself.
Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Durable Service Today
When you’re preparing for air conditioning replacement, the company who hooks it up is just as critical as the model you go with. Durable Service is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Holdrege. From helping you select the right solution for your residence to discussing financing options to professional installation, partnering with our pros is a breeze. Call us at 308-995-8177 to begin today!
