With proper maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or greater. But even the most meticulously maintained air conditioner will need to be updated at some point.
When you’re beginning to plan for air conditioning installation in Lexington, we are aware that the expense tops your list of questions. The bright side is that getting a new air conditioner may be more reasonable than you realize, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also receive enhanced energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over its life span through cheaper electricity bills.
Here’s what to anticipate 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 difficult. Here’s what our professionals recommend.
Replace
- Your air conditioner is past 10 years old. While some could work longer, most air conditioners run for around 15 years with routine maintenance. We advise prepping for air conditioning replacement around the 10-year point. Even if you replace it when it’s only a decade old, the U.S. Department of Energy says this swap could save you 20-40% on cooling bills.
- You’ve avoided routine maintenance for too long. Much like a car, you cooling system needs annual air conditioning maintenance. Overlooking this important service can lead to reduced efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a shorter life span.
- Your air conditioner needs frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the consequence of overlooking service. But as your air conditioner ages, it’s more likely to experience a catastrophic breakdown. When repairs are more than half the cost of a new air conditioner, we recommend getting a new one.
- Your residence feels unpleasant. If your house feels too sticky or you’re dealing with hot and cold spots in specific spaces, your air conditioner may be having difficulty keeping up. This is a clue you should replace it.
- Your utility bills are expensive. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it gets older. As a consequence, it might need to operate more repeatedly or longer to keep your residence at your desired temp. Newer air conditioners have the most up-to-date energy-efficient technology to keep your home comfy and utility costs low.
- Your air conditioner uses R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was installed before 2010, there’s a decent chance it uses Freon. Also referred to as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being manufactured because of its damaging effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to experience a refrigerant leak, fixing that would be very 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 wisest to repair it.
- Repairs are infrequent or reasonable. The best way to avoid unexpected repairs is to have routine service scheduled. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are inexpensive, repair your air conditioner.
- Your air conditioner is covered by a warranty. Most air conditioners include a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that usually covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length depends on your manufacturer, but it provides valuable protection in the event of a huge failure. If your air conditioner is under warranty, we advise fixing it.
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 may be different.
There are a few factors that impact your total cost, such as:
- The air conditioner model you choose, as more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
- The size your home needs.
- If you need to replace your ductwork, which can be required if your ductwork is aging or inefficient.
We give free estimates at James Heating & A/C, Inc so you can be confident you’re getting a good deal. And with our full 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 too small will struggle to keep your residence cool. And one that’s too big might turn on and off too many times, or short cycle. This act can inflate your cooling expenses and wear your air conditioner out faster. This may also lead to temperature inconsistencies and make your house feel less cool.
At James Heating & A/C, Inc, our pros 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, along with several other considerations. 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 influence air conditioner size are:
- The weather in Lexington
- Ductwork quality and age
- How many windows you have and the style, because large or picture windows might be less efficient
- If your house receives more sun or shade
- Insulation quality and concentration
- 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 efficiently it consumes electricity to create cooling. The higher the ranking, the more efficient the air conditioner is.
When you’re getting a new air conditioner, it’s important to know:
- 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 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 come with additional features to help you save more. These features may entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of going at full speed constantly, these air conditioners can reduce blower speeds based on your cooling requirements. This creates quieter and more energy-efficient comfort. While an air conditioner with a greater SEER rating is usually higher priced, it may be eligible for additional rebates. And the energy savings over its life span could help it pay for itself.
Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with James Heating & A/C, Inc Now
When you’re doing air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as essential as the model you select. James Heating & A/C, Inc is one of the most trusted names for air conditioning installation in Lexington. From helping you choose the right solution for your home to reviewing financing options to professional installation, collaborating with our professionals is a breeze. Reach us at 336-853-6070 to get started now!