With adequate maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or more. But even the most well-maintained air conditioner will need to be removed down the road.

When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Jefferson City, we realize that the price is number one on your list of questions. The good news is that getting a new air conditioner could be more economical than you realize, due to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also receive improved energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over time through cheaper utility bills.

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

When to Schedule Air Conditioner Replacement

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

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is past 10 years old. While some may work longer, most air conditioners run for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We suggest getting ready for air conditioning replacement close to the 10-year point. Even if you get 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 avoided regular maintenance for many years. Much like a car, your cooling system has to have annual air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this crucial service can result in decreased efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a reduced life span.
  • Your air conditioner needs frequent or expensive repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is usually the outcome of not doing service But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to suffer a catastrophic malfunction. When repairs are greater 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 dealing with hot and cold spots in specific rooms, your air conditioner might be having a hard time keeping up. This is a sign you should replace it.
  • Your utility bills are high. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it becomes older. As a consequence, it could need to run more frequently or longer to keep your residence at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the most up-to-date energy-efficient technology to keep your home comfy and energy bills low.
  • Your air conditioner runs on R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was purchased before 2010, there’s a decent chance it runs on Freon. Also known as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being manufactured as a result of its damaging effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to develop a refrigerant leak, solving that would be extraordinarily expensive. This is because R-22 is only available in limited, recycled quantities.

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 common or inexpensive. The smartest way to avoid unexpected repairs is to have annual service done. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are inexpensive, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner has a valid warranty. Most air conditioners include 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 huge failure. If your air conditioner is protected by warranty, we recommend fixing it.

Typical Air Conditioner Cost

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

There are a few details that affect your total cost, such as:

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

We offer free estimates at Stieferman Heating Company Inc so you can know you’re getting a great deal. And with our wide range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that fits just about any budget.

The Size of the AC System

Air conditioner size is critical. A system that’s too small will have difficulty keeping your house cool. And one that’s too large might turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This act can increase your cooling costs and wear your air conditioner out prematurely. This may also create temperature inconsistencies and make your residence feel less comfy.

At Stieferman Heating Company Inc, our technicians 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 house is, plus a couple 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 temperatures in Jefferson City.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your home has and the style, because big or picture windows can be lower efficiency.
  • If your residence receives more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and thickness.
  • How many people are in your family.

SEER Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is tied to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This number measures how well it consumes 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 important to know:

  • Older 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 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 include more features to help you save more. These features may involve variable-speed cooling. Instead of going at 100% continuously, these air conditioners can fine-tune 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 typically higher priced, it could be eligible for extra rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime could help it pay for itself.

Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Stieferman Heating Company Inc Today

When you’re researching air conditioning replacement, the company who hooks it up is just as essential as the model you choose. Stieferman Heating Company Inc is one of the number one names for air conditioning installation in Jefferson City. From helping you find the ideal solution for your house to discussing financing options to professional installation, partnering with us is a breeze. Reach us at 573-635-3547 to get started now!