With proper maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or longer. But even the most meticulously maintained air conditioner will need to be removed at some point.
When you’re starting to plan for air conditioning installation in South Beloit and Belvidere, we realize that the expense is at the top of your list of questions. The silver lining is that getting a new air conditioner may be more reasonable than you are aware, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also receive improved energy efficiency, which will typically pay off over its life span through less expensive cooling 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 our pros suggest.
Replace
- Your air conditioner is past 10 years old. While some could work longer, most air conditioners last for around 15 years with regular maintenance. We advise prepping for air conditioning replacement close to the 10-year point. 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 neglected routine maintenance for too long. Just like a car, you cooling system has to have annual air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this crucial service can result in reduced efficiency, more frequent repairs and even a reduced life span.
- Your air conditioner requires frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the result of not doing tune-ups. But as your air conditioner ages, it’s more likely to experience a catastrophic malfunction. When repairs are greater than half the cost of a new air conditioner, we recommend getting a new one.
- Your house feels unpleasant. If your residence feels too humid or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in given spaces, your air conditioner may be having a hard time keeping up. This is a clue you need to replace it.
- Your energy bills are high. Your air conditioner loses efficiency as it gets older. Consequently, it could need to work more often or longer to keep your residence at your desired setting. Newer air conditioners have the top energy-efficient technology to keep your home cool and utility bills reasonable.
- Your air conditioner uses R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was replaced before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it uses Freon. Also known as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being manufactured due to its detrimental effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to develop a refrigerant leak, fixing that would be very expensive. This is due to the fact R-22 is only available in limited, recycled amounts.
Repair
- Your air conditioner is under 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s wisest to repair it.
- Repairs are infrequent or inexpensive. The wisest way to stop unexpected repairs is to have annual maintenance done. 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 include a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that usually covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is up to your manufacturer, but it gives valuable protection in the event of a huge failure. If your air conditioner is protected by warranty, we advise fixing it.
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 precise cost might be different.
There are a couple of details that influence your total cost, including:
- The air conditioner model you choose, because more energy-efficient ones are higher priced.
- The size your home needs.
- If you need to put in new ductwork, which can be needed if your ductwork is aging or separated.
We offer free estimates at Fleming Heating & Air Conditioning Inc 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 works with just about any budget.
Air Conditioner Size
Air conditioner size is critical. A system that’s too small will have difficulty keeping your home cool. And one that’s too big might turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This act can increase your cooling costs and wear your air conditioner out faster. This might also create temperature inconsistencies and make your residence feel less comfy.
At Fleming Heating & Air Conditioning Inc, our techs have many years of experience in properly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your residence. The right size depends on how big your house is, in addition to a couple other things. 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 factors that can affect air conditioner size are:
- The temperatures in South Beloit and Belvidere
- Ductwork quality and age
- How many windows your house has and the style, because large or picture windows might be less efficient
- If your house has more sun or shade
- Insulation quality and depth
- How many people live in your home
SEER Ratings
Your air conditioner’s efficiency is tied to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This rating measures how well it uses electricity to create cooling. The greater the number, the more efficient the air conditioner is.
When you’re getting a new air conditioner, it’s essential to be aware:
- Older air conditioners are ranked 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 mandates. 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 extra features to help you save more. These features may entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at full speed all the time, these air conditioners can fine-tune blower speeds based on your cooling needs. This creates quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a better SEER rating is usually more expensive, it might be eligible for additional rebates. And the energy savings over its life span may help it pay for itself.
Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Fleming Heating & Air Conditioning Inc Today
When you’re researching air conditioning replacement, the company who puts it in is just as essential as the model you choose. Fleming Heating & Air Conditioning Inc is one of the number one names for air conditioning installation in South Beloit and Belvidere. From helping you select the recommended solution for your home to discussing financing options to professional installation, collaborating with us is a breeze. Call us at 877-389-2465 to start right away!