With ample maintenance, your air conditioner can run for 15 years or more. But even the best maintained air conditioner will need to be replaced eventually.

When you’re starting to plan for air conditioning installation in Derby, we realize that cost tops your list of questions. The silver lining is that getting a new air conditioner may be more reasonable than you are aware, thanks to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also enjoy improved energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over the years through cheaper electricity 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 tricky. Here’s what our pros advise.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some could run longer, many air conditioners last for around 15 years with regular maintenance. We advise prepping for air conditioning replacement close to the 10-year point. Even if you get a new one when it’s only a decade old, the U.S. Department of Energy says this change could save you 20-40% on cooling costs.
  • You’ve neglected annual maintenance for a long time. Similar to a car, your cooling system has to have routine air conditioning maintenance. Overlooking this crucial service can lead to lower efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a reduced life span.
  • Your air conditioner needs frequent or expensive repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is usually the consequence of skipping service But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to suffer a major problem. When repairs are greater than half the cost of a new air conditioner, it’s time to get a new one.
  • Your home is uncomfortable. If your residence feels too sticky or you’re dealing with hot and cold spots in given areas, your air conditioner may be having a hard time keeping up. This is a hint you need to replace it.
  • Your utility bills are high. Your air conditioner becomes less efficient as it becomes older. Consequently, it might need to work more repeatedly or longer to keep your house at your desired setting. Newer air conditioners have the most up-to-date energy-efficient technology to keep your house comfy and utility expenses reasonable.
  • Your air conditioner uses R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was purchased before 2010, there’s a decent chance it runs on Freon. Also referred to as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being produced because of its bad 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 quantities.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is less than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s smartest to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t needed all the time or inexpensive. The wisest way to avoid unexpected repairs is to have yearly maintenance done. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are reasonable, 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 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 recommend fixing it.

Air Conditioner Cost

The majority of homeowners spend around $4,631 on a new air conditioner, according to 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 a few details that influence your total cost, including:

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

We offer free estimates at Giordanos Heating and Air Conditioning 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 accommodates just about any budget.

Air Conditioner Size

Air conditioner size is crucial. A system that’s too little will have difficulty keeping your residence cool. And one that’s oversized could turn on and off too many times, or short cycle. This act 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 comfortable.

At Giordanos Heating and Air Conditioning, our professionals have many years of experience in correctly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your house. The right size depends on how big your home is, along with several other considerations. 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 things that can influence air conditioner size are:

  • The climate in Derby.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your home has and the style, since large or picture windows may be lower efficiency.
  • 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 number measures how well it uses 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 important to realize:

  • Dated air conditioners are ranked around 8-9 SEER.
  • Modern 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 come with 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 leads to quieter and more energy-efficient cooling. While an air conditioner with a better SEER rating is typically higher priced, it could be eligible for additional rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime could help it pay for itself.

Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Giordanos Heating and Air Conditioning Now

When you’re preparing for air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as important as the model you choose. Giordanos Heating and Air Conditioning is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Derby. From helping you choose the ideal solution for your house to reviewing financing options to professional installation, working with our professionals is a breeze. Call us at 203-772-8319 to get started now!