With proper maintenance, your air conditioner can run for 15 years or greater. But even the best maintained air conditioner will need to be updated eventually.

When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in South Beloit and Belvidere, we are aware that cost is at the top of your list of questions. The bright side is that buying a new air conditioner might be more reasonable 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 time through lower utility bills.

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

When to Schedule Air Conditioner Replacement

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

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some might last longer, many air conditioners run for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We advise getting ready 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 swap could save you 20-40% on cooling expenses.
  • You’ve neglected regular maintenance for too long. Similar to a car, your cooling system requires regular air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this crucial service can cause decreased efficiency, more frequent repairs and even a shorter life span.
  • Your air conditioner has to have frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is usually the consequence of not doing service But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to have a major problem. When repairs are higher than half the cost of a new air conditioner, you should get a new one.
  • Your residence is uncomfortable. If your house feels too sticky or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in certain spaces, your air conditioner could be struggling to keep up. This is a sign it’s time to replace it.
  • Your cooling bills are expensive. Your air conditioner loses efficiency as it becomes older. As a result, it might need to run more frequently or longer to keep your house at your desired temp. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your residence comfy and electrical expenses down.
  • Your air conditioner has R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was installed before 2010, there’s a good chance it uses Freon. Also known as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being manufactured because of its bad effects on the environment. You can keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to develop a refrigerant leak, fixing that would be extraordinarily expensive. This is because 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 best to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t needed all the time or inexpensive. The best way to avoid emergency repairs is to have regular service done. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are reasonable, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner has a valid warranty. Most air conditioners are accompanied by 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 protected by warranty, we suggest fixing it.

Typical Air Conditioner Cost

The majority of homeowners spend around $4,631 on a new air conditioner, per national averages compiled by HomeGuide. Air conditioner cost averages often range from $3,350 to $5,912, but your precise cost {might|could|may] be different.

There are a couple of details that influence your total cost, including:

  • The air conditioner model you install, as more energy-efficient ones are pricier.
  • The size your home needs.
  • If you need to put in new ductwork, which can happen if your ductwork is old or separated.

We give free estimates at Fleming Heating & Air Conditioning Inc so you can know you’re getting a fantastic deal. And with our complete range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that accommodates just about any budget.

Air Conditioner Size

Air conditioner size is crucial. A system that’s too small won’t be able to keep your residence cool. And one that’s too big could turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This act can drive up your utility expenses and wear your air conditioner out faster. This may also create temperature variability and make your home feel less comfortable.

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 size you need depends on how large your house is, in addition to a few 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 considerations that can impact air conditioner size are:

  • The climate in South Beloit and Belvidere.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows you have and the style, since big or picture windows can be more inefficient.
  • If your home has more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and thickness.
  • How many people are in your household.

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is linked to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This rating measures how efficiently it consumes electricity to create cooling. The greater the number, the more efficient the air conditioner is.

When you’re buying a new air conditioner, it’s crucial to know:

  • Dated air conditioners are ranked around 8-9 SEER.
  • Updated 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 requirements. 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 entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of going at 100% constantly, these air conditioners can reduce blower speeds adjusted for your cooling preferences. This leads to quieter and more energy-efficient comfort. While an air conditioner with a greater SEER rating is usually more expensive, it could be eligible for additional rebates. And the energy savings over its life span could help it pay for itself.

Request a Free Quote for Your Air Conditioning Installation with Fleming Heating & Air Conditioning Inc Right Away

When you’re researching air conditioning replacement, the company who hooks it up is just as essential as the model you select. Fleming Heating & Air Conditioning Inc is one of the number one names for air conditioning installation in South Beloit and Belvidere. From helping you find the right solution for your residence to discussing financing options to professional installation, collaborating with our pros is a breeze. Call us at 877-389-2465 to begin now!