With proper maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or more. But even the most well-maintained air conditioner will need to be removed eventually.

When you’re beginning 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 installing a new air conditioner may be more economical than you think it is, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also get enhanced energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over its life span through cheaper utility bills.

Here’s what to expect when you’re installing a new air conditioner.

The Best Time to Consider Replacing Your Air Conditioner

Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner might be tricky. Here’s what we suggest.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is more than 10 years old. While some might run longer, most air conditioners work for around 15 years with regular maintenance. We suggest getting ready for air conditioning replacement near the 10-year mark. Even if you get a new one 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 avoided routine maintenance for a long time. Similar to a car, your cooling system has to have annual air conditioning maintenance. Overlooking this critical service can lead to decreased efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a reduced life span.
  • Your air conditioner requires frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the result of overlooking tune-ups But as your air conditioner ages 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 home isn’t comfortable. If your residence feels too humid or you’re having hot and cold spots in given rooms, your air conditioner may be struggling to keep up. This is a hint it’s time to replace it.
  • Your energy bills are high. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it ages. As a result, it may need to run more often or longer to keep your residence at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your home comfy and electrical expenses reasonable.
  • Your air conditioner runs on R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was replaced before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it uses Freon. Also known as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being produced because of its detrimental effects on the environment. You can keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to develop a refrigerant leak, solving that would be extraordinarily expensive. This is since R-22 is only available in limited, recycled quantities.

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 aren’t common or inexpensive. The best way to prevent emergency repairs is to have regular service done. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are inexpensive, 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 often 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 protected by warranty, we suggest fixing it.

Typical 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 total cost {might|could|may] be lower or higher.

There are a couple of factors that affect your total cost, including:

  • The air conditioner model you choose, because more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
  • The size your home needs.
  • If you need to replace your ductwork, which can be needed if your ductwork is aging or inefficient.

We give free estimates at GV Heating & Air so you can be sure you’re getting a great deal. And with our full range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that accommodates just about any budget.

The Size of the AC System

Air conditioner size is crucial. A system that’s too little will have difficulty keeping your residence cool. And one that’s oversized may turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This action can drive up your utility expenses and wear your air conditioner out faster. This may also create temperature inconsistencies and make your residence feel less comfy.

At GV Heating & Air, our professionals have many years of experience in correctly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your home. The ideal size depends on how spacious your home is, along with a few other factors. 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 temperatures in Crystal and Twin Cities.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows you have and the style, as expansive or picture windows might be lower efficiency.
  • If your home has more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and thickness.
  • How many people are in your household.

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is impacted by its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This ranking measures how proficiently it consumes 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 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 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 involve variable-speed cooling. Instead of going at full blast continuously, these air conditioners can reduce blower speeds based on your cooling needs. This creates quieter and more energy-efficient comfort. While an air conditioner with a greater SEER rating is usually pricier, it could be eligible for additional rebates. And the energy savings over its life span may help it pay for itself.

Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with GV Heating & Air Today

When you’re planning for air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as important as the model you choose. GV Heating & Air is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Crystal and Twin Cities. From helping you choose the recommended solution for your house to going over financing options to professional installation, working with us is a breeze. Contact us at 763-535-2000 to get started right away!