With ample maintenance, your air conditioner can run for 15 years or more. But even the most well-maintained air conditioner will need to be removed down the road.

When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Crystal and Twin Cities, we know that the expense is number one on your list of questions. The bright side is that buying a new air conditioner may be more affordable than you think it is, thanks to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also receive better energy efficiency, which will likely pay off over time through less expensive electrical bills.

Here’s what to expect 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 difficult. 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 annual maintenance. We suggest getting ready for air conditioning replacement near the 10-year point. Even if you replace it 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 regular maintenance for a long time. Similar to a car, your cooling system has to have annual air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this crucial service can cause diminished efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a reduced life span.
  • Your air conditioner requires frequent or expensive repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the consequence of skipping service But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to experience a catastrophic problem. 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 humid or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in certain rooms, your air conditioner may be struggling to keep up. This is a clue you should replace it.
  • Your energy bills are costly. Your air conditioner loses efficiency as it gets older. As a consequence, it may need to operate more often or longer to keep your house at your desired temp. Newer air conditioners have the top energy-efficient technology to keep your house cool and electrical costs reasonable.
  • Your air conditioner runs on R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was purchased before 2010, there’s a good chance it runs on Freon. Also referred to as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being produced due to 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 extremely expensive. This is since R-22 is only available in limited, recycled amounts.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is no more than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s best to repair it.
  2. Repairs are infrequent or reasonable. The best way to avoid unanticipated repairs is to have annual service completed. But when repairs are only needed not very often or are economical, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner has a valid warranty. Most air conditioners are accompanied by a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that typically covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is determined by your manufacturer, but it offers valuable protection in the event of a big failure. If your air conditioner is protected by warranty, we advise fixing it.

Air Conditioner Cost

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

There are several details that impact your total cost, like:

  • The air conditioner model you choose, since more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
  • The size you need.
  • If you need to put in new ductwork, which can be needed if your ductwork is dated or separated.

We provide free estimates at GV Heating & Air so you can be sure you’re getting a fantastic 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 small will have difficulty keeping your house cool. And one that’s too big could turn on and off too often, or short cycle. This behavior can drive up your cooling costs and wear your air conditioner out prematurely. This might also lead to temperature variability and make your home feel less comfy.

At GV Heating & Air, our techs have many years of experience in properly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your house. The size you need depends on how large your home is, in addition to a couple 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 considerations that can impact air conditioner size are:

  • The climate in Crystal and Twin Cities.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your home has and the style, since big or picture windows might be more inefficient.
  • If your residence receives more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and concentration.
  • How many people are in your household.

SEER Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is tied to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This ranking measures how proficiently 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 crucial to be aware:

  • Older air conditioners are ranked 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 more features to help you save more. These features may entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at 100% continuously, these air conditioners can fine-tune blower speeds adjusted for your cooling needs. This leads to quieter and more energy-efficient cooling. While an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating is often pricier, it could be eligible for extra 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 researching air conditioning replacement, the company who puts it in is just as essential as the model you go with. GV Heating & Air is one of the most trusted names for air conditioning installation in Crystal and Twin Cities. From helping you select the recommended solution for your house to going over financing options to professional installation, collaborating with our professionals is a breeze. Reach us at 763-535-2000 to begin now!