With ample maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or greater. But even the best maintained air conditioner will need to be replaced eventually.

When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in East Bernard, we are aware that the price is at the top of your list of questions. The silver lining is that getting a new air conditioner could be more reasonable 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 lower utility bills.

Here’s what to prepare for when you’re installing a new air conditioner.

When to Replace Your Air Conditioner

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

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is more than 10 years old. While some could run longer, the majority of air conditioners last for around 15 years with routine maintenance. We advise planning 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 change could save you 20-40% on cooling expenses.
  • You’ve skipped annual maintenance for many years. Just like a car, your cooling system requires routine air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this crucial service can result in lower efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a reduced life span.
  • Your air conditioner requires frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is often the result of not doing maintenance But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to experience a catastrophic malfunction. When repairs are more than half the cost of a new air conditioner, it’s time to get a new one.
  • Your house feels unpleasant. If your house feels too muggy or you’re having hot and cold spots in given spaces, your air conditioner might be having difficulty keeping up. This is a hint you should replace it.
  • Your utility bills are high. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it ages. Consequently, it may need to work more often or longer to keep your house at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the top energy-efficient technology to keep your residence comfortable and electrical expenses reasonable.
  • Your air conditioner runs on R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was purchased before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it runs on Freon. Also known as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being manufactured because of its detrimental effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to develop a refrigerant leak, repairing that would be very expensive. This is due to the fact R-22 is only available in limited, recycled amounts.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is under 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s ideal to repair it.
  2. Repairs are infrequent or inexpensive. The wisest way to prevent unanticipated repairs is to have annual service done. But when repairs are only needed every so often or are reasonable, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner is under warranty. Most air conditioners come with a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that often covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length depends on your manufacturer, but it offers valuable protection in the event of a major failure. If your air conditioner is covered by warranty, we suggest fixing it.

General Estimate of Air Conditioner Cost

Most 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 exact cost {might|could|may] vary.

There are a couple of aspects that affect your total cost, including:

  • The air conditioner model you choose, because more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
  • The size your space needs.
  • If you need to put in new ductwork, which can be required if your ductwork is old or damaged.

We offer free estimates at E.B. Air so you can be sure you’re getting a good deal. And with our wide range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that works with 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 often, or short cycle. This behavior can drive up your energy costs and wear your air conditioner out prematurely. This could also lead to temperature instabilities and make your home feel less comfortable.

At E.B. Air, our professionals have many years of experience in accurately sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your house. The right size depends on how large your house is, plus a few other things. 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 impact air conditioner size are:

  • The climate in East Bernard.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your house has and the style, because big or picture windows might be less efficient.
  • If your house receives more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and thickness.
  • How many people are in your family.

SEER Ratings

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

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

  • Older air conditioners are ranked around 8-9 SEER.
  • Updated 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 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 include extra features to help you save more. These features may include variable-speed cooling. Instead of running at full blast constantly, these air conditioners can fine-tune blower speeds customized for your cooling requirements. This leads to quieter and more energy-efficient cooling. While an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating is typically more expensive, it might be eligible for additional rebates. And the energy savings over its life span may help it pay for itself.

Request a Free Quote for Your Air Conditioning Installation with E.B. Air Today

When you’re planning for air conditioning replacement, the company who hooks it up is just as important as the model you choose. E.B. Air is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in East Bernard. From helping you select the right solution for your residence to discussing financing options to professional installation, collaborating with our professionals is a breeze. Call us at 979-335-4262 to begin right away!