With adequate maintenance, your air conditioner can work for 15 years or greater. But even the most well-maintained air conditioner will need to be removed eventually.

When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in West Jefferson, we are aware that the expense is at the top of your list of questions. The good news is that buying a new air conditioner could be more economical than you are aware, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also receive better energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over the years through less expensive cooling bills.

Here’s what to anticipate when you’re replacing your air conditioner.

The Best Time to Consider Replacing Your Air Conditioner

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

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some might work longer, the majority of air conditioners run for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We suggest getting ready for air conditioning replacement around the 10-year mark. 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 costs.
  • You’ve skipped regular maintenance for a long time. Just like a car, your cooling system requires routine air conditioning maintenance. Overlooking this essential service can cause lower efficiency, more frequent repairs and even a decreased life span.
  • Your air conditioner needs frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the result of overlooking tune-ups But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to experience a major problem. When repairs are more than half the cost of a new air conditioner, it’s time to get a new one.
  • Your residence isn’t comfortable. If your home feels too humid or you’re dealing with hot and cold spots in specific spaces, your air conditioner may be struggling to keep up. This is a sign it’s time to replace it.
  • Your cooling bills are high. Your air conditioner becomes less efficient as it gets older. As a consequence, it might need to run more frequently 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 residence comfortable and cooling costs down.
  • 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 made because of its detrimental effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to experience a refrigerant leak, solving that would be extraordinarily expensive. This is due to the fact 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 ideal to repair it.
  2. Repairs are infrequent or inexpensive. The smartest way to avoid unexpected repairs is to have annual maintenance completed. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are reasonable, repair your air conditioner.
  3. 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 is up to your manufacturer, but it provides valuable protection in the event of a huge failure. If your air conditioner is under warranty, we suggest fixing it.

Average Air Conditioner Cost

Many homeowners spend around $4,631 on a new air conditioner, per national averages compiled by HomeGuide. Air conditioner cost averages often range from $3,350 to $5,912, but your exact cost {might|could|may] vary.

There are several factors that influence your total cost, such as:

  • The air conditioner model you select, because more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
  • The size you need.
  • If you need to replace your ductwork, which can happen if your ductwork is dated or damaged.

We offer free estimates at West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc. so you can know you’re getting a fantastic deal. And with our complete 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 crucial. A system that’s too little won’t be able to keep your home cool. And one that’s oversized could turn on and off too many times, or short cycle. This act can drive up your cooling costs and wear your air conditioner out faster. This could also lead to temperature inconsistencies and make your house feel less comfortable.

At West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc., our techs have many years of experience in correctly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your home. The size you need depends on how big your home is, plus several other things. 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 factors that can influence air conditioner size are:

  • The weather in West Jefferson.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your home has and the style, as expansive or picture windows may be less efficient.
  • If your house has more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and concentration.
  • How many people are in your family.

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is impacted by its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This ranking measures how well it uses electricity to create cooling. The greater the ranking, the more efficient the air conditioner is.

When you’re installing a new air conditioner, it’s essential to know:

  • Dated air conditioners are classified around 8-9 SEER.
  • Modern 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 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 come with extra features to help you save more. These features may entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of running at full blast all the time, these air conditioners can fine-tune blower speeds based on your cooling requirements. This leads to quieter and more energy-efficient comfort. While an air conditioner with a greater SEER rating is typically pricier, it might be eligible for extra rebates. And the energy savings over its life span could help it pay for itself.

Request a Free Quote for Your Air Conditioning Installation with West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc. Today

When you’re planning for air conditioning replacement, the company who hooks it up is just as essential as the model you go with. West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc. is one of the most trusted names for air conditioning installation in West Jefferson. From helping you find the right solution for your residence to reviewing financing options to professional installation, collaborating with our professionals is a breeze. Call us at 614-879-9091 to start right away!