With adequate maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or longer. But even the best maintained air conditioner will need to be replaced eventually.
When you’re starting to plan for air conditioning installation in Crystal and Twin Cities, we realize that the price is number one on your list of questions. The good news is that getting a new air conditioner might be more affordable than you think it is, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also enjoy better energy efficiency, which will typically pay off over time through less expensive cooling bills.
Here’s what to prepare for when you’re getting a new air conditioner.
When to Replace Your Air Conditioner
Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner might be tricky. Here’s what we recommend.
Replace
- Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some may work longer, many air conditioners last for around 15 years with routine maintenance. We suggest planning 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 tweak could save you 20-40% on cooling expenses.
- You’ve skipped routine maintenance for many years. Much like a car, you cooling system has to have annual air conditioning maintenance. Overlooking this crucial service can result in decreased efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a shorter life span.
- Your air conditioner requires frequent or expensive repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is frequently the outcome of overlooking maintenance. But as your air conditioner gets older, it’s more likely to have a catastrophic breakdown. When repairs are greater than half the cost of a new air conditioner, you should get a new one.
- Your residence isn’t comfortable. If your house feels too muggy or you’re having hot and cold spots in specific rooms, your air conditioner may be struggling to keep up. This is a sign it’s time to replace it.
- Your energy bills are expensive. Your air conditioner loses efficiency as it becomes older. Consequently, it might need to run more repeatedly or longer to keep your house at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the top energy-efficient technology to keep your house comfy and cooling costs down.
- 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 manufactured as a result of its damaging effects on the environment. You can keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to develop a refrigerant leak, solving that would be extraordinarly expensive. This is due to the fact R-22 is only available in limited, recycled amounts.
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 economical. The best way to prevent emergency repairs is to have annual service scheduled. But when repairs are only needed not very often or are inexpensive, repair your air conditioner.
- Your air conditioner has a valid warranty. Most air conditioners come with a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that typically 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 covered by warranty, we suggest fixing it.
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 total cost may vary.
There are several details that affect your total cost, such as:
- The air conditioner model you select, since more energy-efficient ones are pricier.
- The size you need.
- If you need to put in new ductwork, which can be needed if your ductwork is dated or separated.
We offer free estimates at GV Heating & Air 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 critical. A system that’s too little won’t be able to keep your house cool. And one that’s too big may turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This act can increase your energy bill and wear your air conditioner out faster. This may also lead to temperature inconsistencies and make your home feel less cool.
At GV Heating & Air, our professionals have many years of experience in correctly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your residence. The ideal size depends on how spacious your house is, plus several other factors. 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 things that can affect air conditioner size are:
- The temperatures in Crystal and Twin Cities
- Ductwork quality and age
- How many windows your house has and the style, as large or picture windows may be lower efficiency
- If your residence has more sun or shade
- Insulation quality and concentration
- How many people live in your home
SEER Ratings
Your air conditioner’s efficiency is linked to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This number measures how well it transforms electricity to create cooling. The bigger the number, the more efficient the air conditioner is.
When you’re installing a new air conditioner, it’s essential to be aware:
- Older air conditioners are rated around 8-9 SEER.
- New 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 have more features to help you save more. These features may include variable-speed cooling. Instead of going at 100% constantly, these air conditioners can reduce blower speeds based on your cooling needs. This leads to quieter and more energy-efficient cooling. While an air conditioner with a higher 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 GV Heating & Air Right Away
When you’re doing air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as essential as the model you select. GV Heating & Air is one of the number one names for air conditioning installation in Crystal and Twin Cities. From helping you find the ideal solution for your house to reviewing financing options to professional installation, working with our professionals is a breeze. Call us at 763-535-2000 to start now!