With adequate maintenance, your air conditioner can work for 15 years or more. But even the most meticulously maintained air conditioner will need to be removed at some point.
When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Carson City, we are aware that the price is number one on your list of questions. The silver lining is that getting a new air conditioner may be more affordable than you think it is, due to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also receive better energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over time through less expensive utility bills.
Here’s what to prepare for when you’re replacing your air conditioner.
When to Replace Your Air Conditioner
Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner might be difficult. Here’s what we recommend.
Replace
- Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some might last longer, many air conditioners work for around 15 years with regular maintenance. We advise prepping for air conditioning replacement near the 10-year mark. 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 expenses.
- You’ve skipped annual maintenance for a long time. Much like a car, you cooling system needs routine air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this critical service can cause decreased efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a decreased life span.
- Your air conditioner requires frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is frequently the consequence of skipping service. But as your air conditioner gets old, it’s more likely to experience a major malfunction. When repairs are higher than half the cost of a new air conditioner, it’s time to get a new one.
- Your house feels unpleasant. If your residence feels too muggy or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in given spaces, your air conditioner may be having difficulty keeping up. This is a hint you should replace it.
- Your utility bills are expensive. Your air conditioner loses efficiency as it gets older. As a result, it may need to run more repeatedly or longer to keep your home at your desired temp. Newer air conditioners have the most up-to-date energy-efficient technology to keep your house cool and cooling costs reasonable.
- Your air conditioner uses R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was installed before 2010, there’s a good chance it uses Freon. Also called R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being made because of its bad effects on the environment. You can keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to develop a refrigerant leak, repairing that would be extremely expensive. This is due to the fact R-22 is only available in limited, recycled portions.
Repair
- Your air conditioner is less than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s wisest to repair it.
- Repairs aren’t common or reasonable. The best way to prevent emergency repairs is to have annual work completed. But when repairs are only needed intermittently 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 usually covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is up to your manufacturer, but it gives valuable protection in the event of a big failure. If your air conditioner is under warranty, we recommend fixing it.
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 exact cost might be lower or higher.
There are a few aspects that impact your total cost, such as:
- The air conditioner model you select, as more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
- The size you need.
- If you need to install new ductwork, which can be required if your ductwork is aging or damaged.
We offer free estimates at Anderson Heating & A/C so you can be sure you’re getting a great deal. And with our full 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 small will struggle to keep your home cool. And one that’s oversized may turn on and off too many times, or short cycle. This act can increase your cooling expenses and wear your air conditioner out prematurely. This might also lead to temperature variability and make your home feel less cool.
At Anderson Heating & A/C, our professionals have many years of experience in correctly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your home. The ideal size depends on how large your home 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 affect air conditioner size are:
- The climate in Carson City
- Ductwork quality and age
- How many windows you have and the style, as expansive or picture windows can be less efficient
- If your house has 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 ranking measures how proficiently 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 crucial to realize:
- Old air conditioners are ranked around 8-9 SEER.
- Modern 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 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 come with more features to help you save more. These features may include variable-speed cooling. Instead of going at 100% continuously, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds based on your cooling requirements. This creates quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a greater SEER rating is typically more expensive, it might be eligible for extra rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime may help it pay for itself.
Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Anderson Heating & A/C Today
When you’re planning for air conditioning replacement, the company who puts it in is just as critical as the model you go with. Anderson Heating & A/C is one of the most trusted names for air conditioning installation in Carson City. From helping you choose the ideal solution for your house to discussing financing options to professional installation, working with our professionals is a breeze. Reach us at 775-230-7628 to get started today!