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 updated eventually.

When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Dundas and Northfield, we know that cost is number one on your list of questions. The bright side is that installing a new air conditioner could be more affordable than you think it is, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also receive better energy efficiency, which will typically pay off over its life span through less expensive electrical bills.

Here’s what to expect when you’re replacing your air conditioner.

When to Schedule Air Conditioner Replacement

Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner might be tricky. Here’s what our pros advise.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is past 10 years old. While some might work longer, many air conditioners run for around 15 years with routine maintenance. We advise planning for air conditioning replacement near the 10-year age. Even if you install 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 bills.
  • You’ve avoided annual maintenance for too long. Much like a car, your cooling system has to have annual air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this essential service can cause diminished efficiency, more frequent repairs and even a decreased life span.
  • Your air conditioner requires frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is frequently the result of overlooking tune-ups But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to experience a major problem. When repairs are more than half the cost of a new air conditioner, you should get a new one.
  • Your home isn’t comfortable. If your house feels too muggy or you’re having hot and cold spots in specific areas, your air conditioner may be struggling to keep up. This is a clue it’s time to replace it.
  • Your energy bills are costly. Your air conditioner becomes less efficient as it gets older. As a consequence, it may need to run more frequently or longer to keep your home at your desired temp. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your house comfortable and cooling expenses reasonable.
  • Your air conditioner runs on R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was purchased before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it has Freon. Also referred to as 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 experience a refrigerant leak, repairing that would be very expensive. This is because 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 reasonable. The smartest way to prevent emergency repairs is to have regular service completed. But when repairs are only needed every so often or are inexpensive, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner is under warranty. Most air conditioners are accompanied by a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that usually covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length depends on your manufacturer, but it provides valuable protection in the event of a big failure. If your air conditioner is protected by warranty, we suggest fixing it.

General Estimate of Air Conditioner Cost

The majority of 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 different.

There are a couple of details that affect your total cost, like:

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

We provide free estimates at Better Air so you can be sure you’re getting a good deal. And with our complete 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 will have difficulty keeping your home cool. And one that’s oversized may turn on and off too often, or short cycle. This behavior can increase your energy bill and wear your air conditioner out faster. This may also lead to temperature instabilities and make your house feel less comfy.

At Better Air, our techs have many years of experience in correctly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your house. The right size depends on how large your residence is, plus a few other things. 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 considerations that can impact air conditioner size are:

  • The temperatures in Dundas and Northfield.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your house has and the style, as expansive or picture windows might be less efficient.
  • If your residence has more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and thickness.
  • 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 rating measures how well it consumes electricity to create cooling. The higher the number, the more efficient the air conditioner is.

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

  • Dated 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 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 have extra features to help you save more. These features may entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of going at full blast constantly, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds adjusted for your cooling requirements. This creates quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a better SEER rating is typically higher priced, it may be eligible for additional rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime could help it pay for itself.

Request a Free Quote for Your Air Conditioning Installation with Better Air Right Away

When you’re preparing for air conditioning replacement, the company who puts it in is just as important as the model you choose. Better Air is one of the number one names for air conditioning installation in Dundas and Northfield. From helping you find the ideal solution for your house to going over financing options to professional installation, partnering with our professionals is a breeze. Contact us at 507-663-1208 to begin right away!