With adequate maintenance, your air conditioner can work for 15 years or greater. But even the best maintained air conditioner will need to be replaced at some point.
When you’re beginning to plan for air conditioning installation in Jefferson City, we are aware that the price is number one on your list of questions. The bright side is that installing a new air conditioner may be more reasonable than you realize, due to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also receive better energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over time through lower electricity 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 may be hard. Here’s what we advise.
Replace
- Your air conditioner is past 10 years old. While some might work longer, most air conditioners last for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We advise planning for air conditioning replacement near 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 change could save you 20-40% on cooling bills.
- You’ve neglected regular maintenance for many years. Just like a car, you cooling system requires annual air conditioning maintenance. Overlooking this important service can result in lower efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a decreased life span.
- Your air conditioner needs frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is usually the outcome of overlooking service. But as your air conditioner ages, it’s more likely to experience a major malfunction. When repairs are higher than half the cost of a new air conditioner, we recommend getting a new one.
- Your home is uncomfortable. If your house feels too humid or you’re having hot and cold spots in given spaces, your air conditioner could be having a hard time keeping up. This is a hint it’s time to replace it.
- Your energy bills are costly. Your air conditioner loses efficiency as it gets older. Consequently, it could need to run more frequently or longer to keep your home at your desired setting. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your residence comfortable and cooling expenses reasonable.
- Your air conditioner uses R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was purchased before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it has Freon. Also called R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being made as a result of its damaging effects on the environment. You can carry on with using your air conditioner, but if it were to develop a refrigerant leak, fixing that would be extremely expensive. This is due to the fact R-22 is only available in limited, recycled portions.
Repair
- Your air conditioner is no more than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s smartest to repair it.
- Repairs aren’t needed all the time or inexpensive. The smartest way to avoid emergency repairs is to have annual maintenance 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 include a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that usually covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is determined by your manufacturer, but it gives valuable protection in the event of a big failure. If your air conditioner is covered by warranty, we recommend fixing it.
Air Conditioner Cost
Most homeowners spend around $4,631 on a new air conditioner, based on 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 details that impact your total cost, like:
- The air conditioner model you install, as more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
- The size your home needs.
- If you need to replace your ductwork, which can be needed if your ductwork is aging or inefficient.
We offer free estimates at Stieferman Heating Company Inc so you can know you’re getting a good deal. And with our wide range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that fits just about any budget.
Air Conditioner Size
Air conditioner size is critical. A system that’s too small won’t be able to keep your home cool. And one that’s oversized may turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This act can increase your energy expenses and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This may also lead to temperature instabilities and make your residence feel less cool.
At Stieferman Heating Company Inc, our professionals have many years of experience in properly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your house. The ideal size depends on how large your residence is, in addition to several other factors. 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 considerations that can affect air conditioner size are:
- The climate in Jefferson City
- Ductwork quality and age
- How many windows your home has and the style, as large or picture windows may be lower efficiency
- If your residence receives 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 number measures how proficiently it transforms electricity to create cooling. The greater the ranking, the more efficient the air conditioner is.
When you’re buying a new air conditioner, it’s crucial to realize:
- Old air conditioners are ranked around 8-9 SEER.
- New 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 include additional features to help you save more. These features may include variable-speed cooling. Instead of going at 100% all the time, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds based on your cooling requirements. This results in quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a better SEER rating is usually pricier, it could be eligible for valuable rebates. And the energy savings over time could help it pay for itself.
Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Stieferman Heating Company Inc Now
When you’re planning for air conditioning replacement, the company who puts it in is just as essential as the model you go with. Stieferman Heating Company Inc is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Jefferson City. From helping you find the right solution for your residence to reviewing financing options to professional installation, partnering with our pros is a breeze. Reach us at 573-635-3547 to begin right away!