With proper maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or longer. But even the best maintained air conditioner will need to be replaced at some point.

When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Troy, we are aware that the expense is at the top of your list of questions. The silver lining is that getting a new air conditioner might be more affordable than you realize, due to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also receive enhanced energy efficiency, which will typically pay off over the years through cheaper electricity bills.

Here’s what to prepare for when you’re installing a new air conditioner.

When to Replace Your Air Conditioner

Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner can be tricky. Here’s what our professionals recommend.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some may work longer, the majority of air conditioners run for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We recommend getting ready for air conditioning replacement close to the 10-year age. Even if you replace it when it’s only a decade old, the U.S. Department of Energy says this tweak could save you 20-40% on cooling bills.
  • You’ve avoided regular maintenance for too long. Much like a car, your cooling system needs regular air conditioning maintenance. Skipping this critical service can lead to diminished efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a decreased life span.
  • Your air conditioner has to have frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is frequently the result of not doing service But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to suffer a major breakdown. When repairs are greater than half the cost of a new air conditioner, it’s time to get a new one.
  • Your residence isn’t comfortable. If your residence feels too muggy or you’re having hot and cold spots in given rooms, your air conditioner might be struggling to keep up. This is a hint you should replace it.
  • Your utility bills are expensive. Your air conditioner becomes less efficient as it gets older. As a result, it might need to operate more repeatedly or longer to keep your home at your desired setting. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your house comfy and utility expenses down.
  • Your air conditioner uses R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was purchased before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it runs on Freon. Also called R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being manufactured because of its damaging effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to develop a refrigerant leak, fixing that would be extraordinarily 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 best to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t needed all the time or inexpensive. The smartest way to stop unexpected repairs is to have annual work completed. But when repairs are only needed not very often or are reasonable, 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 typically covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is up to your manufacturer, but it gives valuable protection in the event of a major failure. If your air conditioner is under warranty, we advise fixing it.

Typical 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 precise cost {might|could|may] be different.

There are several details that affect your total cost, including:

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

We give free estimates at Edington Heating & Cooling Inc so you can be sure you’re getting a good deal. And with our full range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that accommodates just about any budget.

Air Conditioner Size

Air conditioner size is critical. A system that’s too small will have difficulty keeping your residence cool. And one that’s too big could turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This act can inflate your energy costs and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This could also cause temperature inconsistencies and make your house feel less comfortable.

At Edington Heating & Cooling Inc, 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 spacious your house is, in addition to several other things. Some of the most standard 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 impact air conditioner size are:

  • The weather in Troy.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your house has and the style, since expansive or picture windows can be lower efficiency.
  • If your residence has more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and depth.
  • 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 ranking measures how well it transforms electricity to create cooling. The greater the ranking, the more efficient the air conditioner is.

When you’re getting a new air conditioner, it’s important to be aware:

  • Dated air conditioners are ranked around 8-9 SEER.
  • New 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 include extra features to help you save more. These features may involve variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at full speed continuously, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds based on your cooling needs. This creates quieter and more energy-efficient comfort. While an air conditioner with a greater SEER rating is usually more expensive, it might be eligible for valuable rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime might help it pay for itself.

Request a Free Quote for Your Air Conditioning Installation with Edington Heating & Cooling Inc Right Away

When you’re planning for air conditioning replacement, the company who hooks it up is just as critical as the model you select. Edington Heating & Cooling Inc is one of the most trusted names for air conditioning installation in Troy. From helping you select the recommended solution for your residence to reviewing financing options to professional installation, working with us is a breeze. Reach us at 937-558-9478 to get started today!