With proper maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or greater. But even the most well-maintained air conditioner will need to be replaced at some point.

When you’re beginning to plan for air conditioning installation in West Jefferson, we know that the price is number one on your list of questions. The bright side is that buying a new air conditioner might be more reasonable than you think it is, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also enjoy improved energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over its life span through less expensive electrical bills.

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

When You Should Consider Replacing Your Air Conditioner

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

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some might last longer, most air conditioners run for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We suggest getting ready for air conditioning replacement near the 10-year point. Even if you replace it 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 skipped regular maintenance for many years. Similar to a car, your cooling system needs routine air conditioning maintenance. Skipping this critical service can cause diminished efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a decreased life span.
  • Your air conditioner requires frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is usually the result of skipping tune-ups But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to have a big problem. When repairs are higher than half the cost of a new air conditioner, you should get a new one.
  • Your house feels unpleasant. If your home feels too sticky or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in given rooms, your air conditioner could be having a hard time keeping up. This is a clue it’s time to replace it.
  • Your utility bills are expensive. Your air conditioner becomes less efficient as it gets older. As a result, it may need to run more often or longer to keep your house at your desired temp. Newer air conditioners have the top energy-efficient technology to keep your residence cool and electrical expenses down.
  • Your air conditioner uses 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 made as a result of its damaging effects on the environment. You can keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to experience a refrigerant leak, repairing that would be very expensive. This is because R-22 is only available in limited, recycled amounts.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is no more than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s wisest to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t needed all the time or economical. The smartest way to prevent unexpected repairs is to have yearly maintenance scheduled. But when repairs are only needed every so often or are reasonable, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner has a valid warranty. Most air conditioners come with a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that typically covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length depends on your manufacturer, but it provides valuable protection in the event of a big failure. If your air conditioner is under warranty, we recommend fixing it.

Average Air Conditioner Cost

The majority of 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 exact cost {might|could|may] be lower or higher.

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

  • The air conditioner model you install, since more energy-efficient ones are higher priced.
  • The size you need.
  • If you need to replace your ductwork, which can be needed if your ductwork is aging or damaged.

We offer free estimates at West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc. so you can be sure you’re getting a good deal. And with our full range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that accommodates just about any budget.

Air Conditioner Sizing

Air conditioner size is essential. A system that’s undersized will have difficulty keeping your home cool. And one that’s too large might turn on and off too often, or short cycle. This action can drive up your energy expenses and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This might also create temperature inconsistencies and make your house feel less cool.

At West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc., our professionals have many years of experience in correctly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your residence. The right size depends on how spacious your home is, plus 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 things that can affect air conditioner size are:

  • The weather in West Jefferson.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your house has and the style, because big or picture windows might be more inefficient.
  • If your residence gets more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and thickness.
  • How many people live in your home.

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratings

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

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

  • Old 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 extra features to help you save more. These features may include variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at full blast constantly, these air conditioners can reduce blower speeds customized for your cooling requirements. 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 extra rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime could help it pay for itself.

Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc. Right Away

When you’re preparing for air conditioning replacement, the company who puts it in is just as critical as the model you select. West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc. is one of the most trusted names for air conditioning installation in West Jefferson. From helping you choose the recommended solution for your residence to reviewing financing options to professional installation, working with us is a breeze. Call us at 614-879-9091 to start right away!