With adequate maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or greater. But even the best maintained air conditioner will need to be replaced down the road.

When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Elk River, we are aware that the expense tops your list of questions. The bright side is that buying a new air conditioner could be more affordable than you are aware, thanks to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also get improved energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over its life span through less expensive utility 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 might be hard. Here’s what we advise.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is more than 10 years old. While some might last longer, the majority of air conditioners run for around 15 years with regular maintenance. We suggest 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 change could save you 20-40% on cooling bills.
  • You’ve neglected annual maintenance for many years. Similar to a car, your cooling system requires annual air conditioning maintenance. Skipping this essential service can result in diminished efficiency, more frequent repairs and even a decreased life span.
  • Your air conditioner needs frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is often the result of not doing service But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to suffer a catastrophic problem. When repairs are greater 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 having hot and cold spots in given areas, your air conditioner may be having difficulty keeping up. This is a hint you need to replace it.
  • Your utility bills are high. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it gets older. Consequently, it might need to operate more often or longer to keep your home at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the most up-to-date energy-efficient technology to keep your home comfortable and cooling costs reasonable.
  • Your air conditioner uses R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was installed before 2010, there’s a decent chance it runs on Freon. Also known as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being made 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, fixing that would be extremely 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 wisest to repair it.
  2. Repairs are infrequent or economical. The best way to avoid unexpected repairs is to have yearly work 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 usually covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is up to your manufacturer, but it offers valuable protection in the event of a big 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 total cost {might|could|may] be different.

There are a couple of factors that impact your total cost, such as:

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

We provide free estimates at Home Comfort Heating & Air so you can know you’re getting a fantastic deal. And with our wide range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that works with just about any budget.

The Size of the AC System

Air conditioner size is essential. A system that’s undersized won’t be able to keep your residence cool. And one that’s too big could turn on and off too many times, or short cycle. This action can increase your utility expenses and wear your air conditioner out prematurely. This could also lead to temperature instabilities and make your residence feel less comfortable.

At Home Comfort Heating & Air, our professionals have many years of experience in properly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your residence. The ideal size depends on how spacious your home is, in addition to a few other considerations. Some of the most standard 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 climate in Elk River.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your house has and the style, because big or picture windows may be lower efficiency.
  • If your house gets more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and thickness.
  • 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 rating measures how efficiently it transforms electricity to create cooling. The higher the ranking, the more efficient the air conditioner is.

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

  • Older air conditioners are classified 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 come with additional features to help you save more. These features may involve variable-speed cooling. Instead of going at full blast constantly, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds customized for your cooling preferences. This leads to quieter and more energy-efficient comfort. While an air conditioner with a greater SEER rating is usually pricier, it may be eligible for additional rebates. And the energy savings over its life span could help it pay for itself.

Kickstart Your Air Conditioning Installation with Home Comfort Heating & Air Today

When you’re preparing for air conditioning replacement, the company who puts it in is just as essential as the model you choose. Home Comfort Heating & Air is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Elk River. From helping you find the ideal solution for your residence to discussing financing options to professional installation, partnering with our pros is a breeze. Call us at 763-276-0617 to begin right away!