With proper maintenance, your air conditioner can work for 15 years or greater. But even the most well-maintained air conditioner will need to be updated down the road.

When you’re beginning to plan for air conditioning installation in Lexington, we know that the expense is number one on your list of questions. The silver lining is that installing a new air conditioner might be more affordable than you realize, due to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also enjoy better energy efficiency, which will likely pay off over time through less expensive electricity bills.

Here’s what to expect 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 tricky. Here’s what we advise.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is past 10 years old. While some could work longer, the majority of air conditioners work for around 15 years with regular maintenance. We advise getting ready for air conditioning replacement around the 10-year point. Even if you install 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 many years. Much like a car, your cooling system needs regular air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this essential service can lead to lower efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a decreased life span.
  • Your air conditioner has to have frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the consequence of not doing tune-ups But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to suffer a catastrophic breakdown. When repairs are more than half the cost of a new air conditioner, it’s time to get a new one.
  • Your house is uncomfortable. If your residence feels too muggy or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in given rooms, your air conditioner could be struggling to keep up. This is a hint you should replace it.
  • Your cooling bills are expensive. Your air conditioner becomes less efficient as it gets older. Consequently, it might need to operate more frequently or longer to keep your residence at your desired setting. Newer air conditioners have the top energy-efficient technology to keep your home cool and energy costs reasonable.
  • Your air conditioner has R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was replaced before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it has Freon. Also referred to as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being made due to its bad 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 since R-22 is only available in limited, recycled amounts.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is less than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s smartest to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t common or inexpensive. The smartest way to stop emergency repairs is to have regular maintenance done. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are economical, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner is covered by a warranty. Most air conditioners are accompanied by a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that often 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.

Air Conditioner Cost

Many 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 different.

There are several details that affect your total cost, including:

  • The air conditioner model you select, as more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
  • The size your space needs.
  • If you need to install new ductwork, which can be needed if your ductwork is dated or inefficient.

We offer free estimates at James Heating & A/C, Inc so you can be confident you’re getting a fantastic deal. And with our full range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that accommodates just about any budget.

Air Conditioner Size

Air conditioner size is crucial. A system that’s too small won’t be able to keep your home cool. And one that’s too big could turn on and off too many times, or short cycle. This behavior can drive up your energy expenses and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This could also cause temperature instabilities and make your residence feel less comfy.

At James Heating & A/C, Inc, our technicians have many years of experience in correctly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your house. The ideal size depends on how large your house is, in addition to a few other factors. 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 affect air conditioner size are:

  • The weather in Lexington.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your home has and the style, as expansive or picture windows might be less efficient.
  • If your house has more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and thickness.
  • How many people are in your household.

SEER Ratings

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

When you’re getting a new air conditioner, it’s crucial to be aware:

  • Old air conditioners are rated around 8-9 SEER.
  • Updated air conditioners start at 13 SEER. Ones installed in the southwest and southeast must be no less than 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 include more features to help you save more. These features may include variable-speed cooling. Instead of running at full speed constantly, these air conditioners can reduce blower speeds adjusted for your cooling preferences. This results in quieter and more energy-efficient cooling. While an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating is often more expensive, it may be eligible for additional rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime may help it pay for itself.

Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with James Heating & A/C, Inc Today

When you’re preparing for air conditioning replacement, the company who puts it in is just as essential as the model you go with. James Heating & A/C, Inc is one of the number one names for air conditioning installation in Lexington. From helping you find the recommended solution for your home to discussing financing options to professional installation, working with our pros is a breeze. Call us at 336-853-6070 to start today!