With adequate maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or more. But even the best maintained air conditioner will need to be replaced down the road.

When you’re beginning to plan for air conditioning installation in Derby, we are aware that cost is at the top of your list of questions. The bright side is that installing a new air conditioner might be more economical than you think it is, thanks to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also enjoy enhanced energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over time through lower electrical bills.

Here’s what to anticipate 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 can be hard. Here’s what our pros suggest.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some could run longer, the majority of air conditioners work for around 15 years with regular maintenance. We advise getting ready for air conditioning replacement near 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 bills.
  • You’ve neglected regular maintenance for a long time. Just like a car, your cooling system requires routine air conditioning maintenance. Overlooking this critical service can cause lower efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a shorter life span.
  • Your air conditioner has to have frequent or expensive repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the result of skipping tune-ups But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to experience a catastrophic problem. When repairs are more than half the cost of a new air conditioner, it’s time to get a new one.
  • Your house isn’t comfortable. If your residence feels too muggy or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in given areas, your air conditioner could be having difficulty keeping up. This is a clue you need to replace it.
  • Your cooling bills are expensive. Your air conditioner loses efficiency as it ages. Consequently, it might need to run more often 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 home comfy and energy expenses reasonable.
  • Your air conditioner uses R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was installed before 2010, there’s a good chance it runs on Freon. Also known as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being made because of its damaging effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to have a refrigerant leak, solving that would be very expensive. This is due to the fact R-22 is only available in limited, recycled quantities.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is no more than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s ideal to repair it.
  2. Repairs are infrequent or reasonable. The smartest way to avoid unexpected repairs is to have yearly service scheduled. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are economical, repair your air conditioner.
  3. 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 provides valuable protection in the event of a huge failure. If your air conditioner is under warranty, we recommend fixing it.

Typical Air Conditioner Cost

Most 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 several details that affect your total cost, including:

  • The air conditioner model you install, since more energy-efficient ones are higher priced.
  • The size you need.
  • If you need to put in new ductwork, which can be required if your ductwork is dated or damaged.

We give free estimates at Giordanos Heating and Air Conditioning so you can know you’re getting a great 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 essential. A system that’s too little won’t be able to keep your residence cool. And one that’s oversized might turn on and off too many times, or short cycle. This action can drive up your utility costs and wear your air conditioner out faster. This may also lead to temperature inconsistencies and make your house feel less comfy.

At Giordanos Heating and Air Conditioning, our technicians have many years of experience in accurately sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your home. The size you need depends on how spacious your residence is, plus a couple 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 climate in Derby.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your house has and the style, because big or picture windows may be less efficient.
  • If your residence has more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and concentration.
  • How many people live in your home.

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is tied to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This number measures how well it consumes 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 essential to realize:

  • Old air conditioners are classified 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 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 additional features to help you save more. These features may include variable-speed cooling. Instead of running at full speed constantly, these air conditioners can reduce blower speeds based on your cooling needs. This leads to quieter and more energy-efficient comfort. While an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating is often more expensive, it might be eligible for more rebates. And the energy savings over its life span may help it pay for itself.

Request a Free Quote for Your Air Conditioning Installation with Giordanos Heating and Air Conditioning Now

When you’re planning for 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 most trusted names for air conditioning installation in Derby. From helping you choose the right solution for your house to discussing financing options to professional installation, partnering with our professionals is a breeze. Contact us at 203-772-8319 to get started right away!