With adequate maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or longer. But even the best maintained air conditioner will need to be replaced down the road.

When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Holdrege, we are aware that cost is number one on your list of questions. The good news is that buying a new air conditioner could be more affordable than you realize, thanks to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also get improved energy efficiency, which will typically pay off over the years through less expensive cooling bills.

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

When You Should Schedule Air Conditioner Replacement

Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner may be difficult. Here’s what our pros advise.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is past 10 years old. While some could last longer, most air conditioners work for around 15 years with regular maintenance. We recommend prepping 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 tweak could save you 20-40% on cooling bills.
  • You’ve avoided routine maintenance for many years. Much like a car, your cooling system requires routine air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this critical service can cause diminished efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a shorter life span.
  • Your air conditioner needs frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is frequently the consequence of overlooking service But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to have a big malfunction. When repairs are higher than half the cost of a new air conditioner, we recommend getting a new one.
  • Your home feels unpleasant. If your home feels too humid or you’re dealing with hot and cold spots in certain rooms, your air conditioner could be having difficulty keeping up. This is a clue it’s time to replace it.
  • Your energy bills are high. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it gets older. As a consequence, it might need to work more often or longer to keep your home at your desired temp. Newer air conditioners have the most up-to-date energy-efficient technology to keep your residence cool and energy expenses low.
  • Your air conditioner runs on R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was replaced before 2010, there’s a decent chance it uses Freon. Also called R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being manufactured because of its damaging 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 since R-22 is only available in limited, recycled amounts.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is less than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s smartest to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t common or inexpensive. The smartest way to avoid emergency repairs is to have annual work scheduled. 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 typically 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 suggest fixing it.

Typical Air Conditioner Cost

Many homeowners spend around $4,631 on a new air conditioner, according to 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 factors that impact your total cost, like:

  • The air conditioner model you select, because more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
  • The size your home needs.
  • If you need to install new ductwork, which can happen if your ductwork is aging or inefficient.

We give free estimates at Durable Service so you can be sure you’re getting a great deal. And with our complete 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 crucial. A system that’s too little will have difficulty keeping your home cool. And one that’s oversized might turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This behavior can drive up your cooling expenses and wear your air conditioner out prematurely. This may also lead to temperature inconsistencies and make your house feel less cool.

At Durable Service, our techs have many years of experience in accurately sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your residence. The right size depends on how big your residence is, in addition to a few 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 influence air conditioner size are:

  • The temperatures in Holdrege.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your house has and the style, since big or picture windows can be more inefficient.
  • If your home receives more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and concentration.
  • How many people are in your household.

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is impacted by its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This ranking measures how proficiently it uses electricity to create cooling. The higher the ranking, the more efficient the air conditioner is.

When you’re getting 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 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 have additional features to help you save more. These features may involve variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at full speed continuously, these air conditioners can reduce blower speeds customized for your cooling requirements. This results in quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating is typically more expensive, it could be eligible for valuable rebates. And the energy savings over its life span might help it pay for itself.

Kickstart Your Air Conditioning Installation with Durable Service Today

When you’re researching air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as essential as the model you choose. Durable Service is one of the number one names for air conditioning installation in Holdrege. From helping you choose the recommended solution for your house to reviewing financing options to professional installation, working with our professionals is a breeze. Reach us at 308-995-8177 to begin now!