With adequate maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or more. But even the most well-maintained air conditioner will need to be replaced at some point.

When you’re beginning to plan for air conditioning installation in Branchville, we are aware that cost is at the top of your list of questions. The good news is that getting a new air conditioner might be more economical than you realize, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also receive better energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over time through cheaper electrical 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 can be tricky. Here’s what our pros recommend.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some may run longer, many air conditioners run for around 15 years with routine maintenance. We suggest planning for air conditioning replacement close to 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 skipped routine maintenance for too long. Similar to a car, your cooling system has to have routine air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this critical service can cause diminished efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a shorter life span.
  • Your air conditioner requires frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is usually the consequence of overlooking maintenance But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to experience a major breakdown. When repairs are more than half the cost of a new air conditioner, it’s time to get a new one.
  • Your residence feels unpleasant. If your house feels too muggy or you’re dealing with hot and cold spots in certain areas, your air conditioner may be having a hard time keeping up. This is a hint it’s time to replace it.
  • Your cooling bills are high. Your air conditioner loses efficiency as it becomes older. As a result, it might need to operate more frequently or longer to keep your residence at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the top energy-efficient technology to keep your house comfortable and energy expenses down.
  • Your air conditioner uses R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was installed before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it runs on Freon. Also called R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being made due to its damaging effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to develop a refrigerant leak, fixing that would be extraordinarily expensive. This is because R-22 is only available in limited, recycled amounts.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is under 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s smartest to repair it.
  2. Repairs are infrequent or inexpensive. The best way to stop emergency repairs is to have regular maintenance completed. But when repairs are only needed every so often or are inexpensive, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner has a valid warranty. Most air conditioners come with a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that often covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is determined by your manufacturer, but it offers valuable protection in the event of a huge failure. If your air conditioner is under warranty, we recommend fixing it.

Air Conditioner Cost

Most 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 precise cost {might|could|may] vary.

There are several factors that affect your total cost, like:

  • The air conditioner model you install, because more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
  • The size your space needs.
  • If you need to replace your ductwork, which can be needed if your ductwork is old or separated.

We give free estimates at Willco Air Conditioning, Refrigeration & Heating Inc. so you can be sure 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 crucial. A system that’s too small will have difficulty keeping your residence cool. And one that’s too large may turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This action can increase your energy bill and wear your air conditioner out faster. This may also lead to temperature inconsistencies and make your house feel less comfortable.

At Willco Air Conditioning, Refrigeration & Heating Inc., our technicians have many years of experience in accurately sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your residence. The size you need depends on how spacious your home is, plus several other things. 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 impact air conditioner size are:

  • The temperatures in Branchville.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your home has and the style, since expansive or picture windows can be lower efficiency.
  • If your residence has more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and thickness.
  • How many people live in your home.

SEER Ratings

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

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

  • Old air conditioners are ranked 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 more features to help you save more. These features may involve variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at full speed continuously, these air conditioners can reduce blower speeds adjusted for your cooling needs. This results in quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a greater SEER rating is usually more expensive, it may be eligible for additional rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime could help it pay for itself.

Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Willco Air Conditioning, Refrigeration & Heating Inc. Right Away

When you’re planning for air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as critical as the model you choose. Willco Air Conditioning, Refrigeration & Heating Inc. is one of the number one names for air conditioning installation in Branchville. From helping you choose the recommended solution for your residence to discussing financing options to professional installation, partnering with our pros is a breeze. Contact us at 862-345-6896 to get started now!