With ample maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or greater. But even the best maintained air conditioner will need to be updated down the road.
When you’re starting to plan for air conditioning installation in Derby, we are aware that the price tops your list of questions. The bright side is that getting 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 typically pay off over its life span through cheaper cooling bills.
Here’s what to expect when you’re getting a new air conditioner.
When to Replace Your Air Conditioner
Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner may be difficult. Here’s what our pros recommend.
Replace
- Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some may work longer, many air conditioners run for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We recommend planning for air conditioning replacement near the 10-year mark. Even if you install a new one 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 regular maintenance for many years. Just like a car, you cooling system has to have annual air conditioning maintenance. Overlooking this crucial service can lead to diminished efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a shorter life span.
- Your air conditioner has to have frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is frequently the outcome of skipping service. But as your air conditioner ages, 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 home feels unpleasant. If your house feels too sticky or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in given areas, your air conditioner could be struggling to keep up. This is a hint you need to replace it.
- Your utility bills are expensive. Your air conditioner loses efficiency as it becomes older. As a result, it may need to operate more frequently or longer to keep your residence at your desired setting. Newer air conditioners have the top energy-efficient technology to keep your house comfy and cooling bills low.
- Your air conditioner uses R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was replaced before 2010, there’s a good chance it runs on Freon. Also called R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being manufactured because of its bad effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to develop a refrigerant leak, repairing 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 less than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s best to repair it.
- Repairs aren’t common or reasonable. The smartest way to avoid unanticipated repairs is to have routine service scheduled. But when repairs are only needed every so often or are economical, repair your air conditioner.
- Your air conditioner is covered by a warranty. Most air conditioners come with a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that typically covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is up to your manufacturer, but it offers valuable protection in the event of a huge failure. If your air conditioner is under warranty, we advise fixing it.
Air Conditioner Cost
Many 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 could vary.
There are a few aspects that affect your total cost, including:
- The air conditioner model you select, since more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
- The size your space needs.
- If you need to replace your ductwork, which can be required if your ductwork is aging or separated.
We offer free estimates at Giordanos Heating and Air Conditioning so you can be confident you’re getting a fantastic deal. And with our complete range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that works with just about any budget.
Air Conditioner Size
Air conditioner size is essential. A system that’s too small will have difficulty keeping your home cool. And one that’s too big might turn on and off too often, or short cycle. This action can drive up your cooling costs and wear your air conditioner out faster. This may also lead to temperature instabilities and make your house feel less comfortable.
At Giordanos Heating and Air Conditioning, our technicians have many years of experience in correctly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your home. The size you need depends on how big your home is, along with a couple other considerations. 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 factors that can affect air conditioner size are:
- The weather in Derby
- Ductwork quality and age
- How many windows your home has and the style, since big or picture windows may be more inefficient
- If your home receives more sun or shade
- Insulation quality and thickness
- How many people are in your family
SEER Ratings
Your air conditioner’s efficiency is tied to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This number measures how well it transforms electricity to create cooling. The greater the rating, the more efficient the air conditioner is.
When you’re installing a new air conditioner, it’s crucial to be aware:
- Dated air conditioners are rated around 8-9 SEER.
- Updated air conditioners start at 13 SEER. Ones installed in the southwest and southeast must be no less than 14 SEER due to U.S. Department of Energy mandates. 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 going at 100% continuously, these air conditioners can reduce blower speeds based on your cooling needs. This results in quieter and more energy-efficient comfort. While an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating is usually higher priced, it may be eligible for additional rebates. And the energy savings over time might help it pay for itself.
Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Giordanos Heating and Air Conditioning Today
When you’re doing air conditioning replacement, the company who puts it in is just as important as the model you go with. Giordanos Heating and Air Conditioning is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Derby. From helping you select the recommended solution for your residence to going over financing options to professional installation, collaborating with us is a breeze. Call us at 203-772-8319 to get started today!