With proper maintenance, your air conditioner can run for 15 years or more. But even the most well- maintained air conditioner will need to be replaced eventually.
When you’re beginning to plan for air conditioning installation in Auburn and Opelika, we are aware that the price is number one on your list of questions. The bright side is that buying a new air conditioner could be more affordable than you are aware, thanks to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also receive better energy efficiency, which will typically pay off over time through less expensive utility bills.
Here’s what to expect when you’re replacing your air conditioner.
When to Replace Your Air Conditioner
Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner can be hard. Here’s what our professionals recommend.
Replace
- Your air conditioner is past 10 years old. While some might run longer, most air conditioners last for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We advise prepping for air conditioning replacement near the 10-year age. Even if you get 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 costs.
- You’ve neglected regular maintenance for too long. Much like a car, you cooling system has to have routine air conditioning maintenance. Skipping this essential service can lead to reduced efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a shorter life span.
- Your air conditioner needs frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is usually the result of not doing service. But as your air conditioner gets older, it’s more likely to have a big problem. When repairs are greater than half the cost of a new air conditioner, it’s time to get a new one.
- Your home is uncomfortable. If your house feels too humid or you’re dealing with hot and cold spots in specific rooms, your air conditioner may be struggling to keep up. This is a clue it’s time to replace it.
- Your utility bills are high. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it gets older. Consequently, it might need to operate more frequently or longer to keep your residence at your desired temp. Newer air conditioners have the top energy-efficient technology to keep your residence comfy and energy bills low.
- Your air conditioner has R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was replaced before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it has Freon. Also known as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being made because of its damaging effects on the environment. You can keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to have a refrigerant leak, fixing that would be very expensive. This is because R-22 is only available in limited, recycled quantities.
Repair
- Your air conditioner is under 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s best to repair it.
- Repairs are infrequent or inexpensive. The smartest way to stop unexpected repairs is to have routine work scheduled. But when repairs are only needed every so often or are reasonable, repair your air conditioner.
- Your air conditioner has a valid warranty. Most air conditioners come with a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that usually covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is up to your manufacturer, but it provides valuable protection in the event of a major failure. If your air conditioner is under warranty, we suggest fixing it.
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 be different.
There are a couple of aspects that impact your total cost, including:
- The air conditioner model you select, because more energy-efficient ones are pricier.
- The size your home needs.
- If you need to install new ductwork, which can happen if your ductwork is old or damaged.
We provide free estimates at Farnell Mechanical, 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 fits just about any budget.
Air Conditioner Size
Air conditioner size is essential. A system that’s undersized will struggle to keep your residence cool. And one that’s too big might turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This act can drive up your utility expenses and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This may also lead to temperature inconsistencies and make your residence feel less comfy.
At Farnell Mechanical, Inc., our techs have many years of experience in properly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your house. The right size depends on how big your residence is, plus several 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 things that can influence air conditioner size are:
- The climate in Auburn and Opelika
- Ductwork quality and age
- How many windows you have and the style, as expansive or picture windows may be lower efficiency
- If your residence receives more sun or shade
- Insulation quality and concentration
- How many people are in your family
SEER Ratings
Your air conditioner’s efficiency is linked to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This rating measures how proficiently it uses electricity to create cooling. The higher the ranking, the more efficient the air conditioner is.
When you’re buying a new air conditioner, it’s crucial to realize:
- Older air conditioners are classified 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 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 come with more features to help you save more. These features may entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of going at full speed continuously, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds adjusted for your cooling needs. This results in quieter and more energy-efficient cooling. While an air conditioner with a better SEER rating is usually higher priced, it might be eligible for additional rebates. And the energy savings over its life span might help it pay for itself.
Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Farnell Mechanical, Inc. Today
When you’re planning for air conditioning replacement, the company who puts it in is just as essential as the model you go with. Farnell Mechanical, Inc. is one of the number one names for air conditioning installation in Auburn and Opelika. From helping you find the right solution for your home to going over financing options to professional installation, partnering with our pros is a breeze. Reach us at 334-524-2458 to start right away!