With proper maintenance, your air conditioner can run for 15 years or greater. But even the most well-maintained air conditioner will need to be replaced at some point.

When you’re starting to plan for air conditioning installation in Circleville, we are aware that the expense tops your list of questions. The good news is that buying a new air conditioner could be more reasonable than you are aware, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also enjoy enhanced energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over time through cheaper utility bills.

Here’s what to anticipate when you’re replacing your air conditioner.

When to Replace Your Air Conditioner

Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner may be difficult. Here’s what our professionals suggest.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is past 10 years old. While some might last longer, most air conditioners last for around 15 years with routine maintenance. We suggest getting ready for air conditioning replacement close to 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 swap could save you 20-40% on cooling costs.
  • You’ve skipped routine maintenance for a long time. Much like a car, your cooling system requires annual air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this essential service can lead to lower efficiency, more frequent repairs and even a decreased life span.
  • Your air conditioner needs frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the result of skipping maintenance But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to suffer a big problem. When repairs are greater than half the cost of a new air conditioner, we recommend getting a new one.
  • Your house feels unpleasant. If your house feels too muggy or you’re dealing with hot and cold spots in certain areas, your air conditioner may be having a hard time keeping up. This is a hint you should replace it.
  • Your energy bills are high. Your air conditioner loses efficiency as it ages. As a consequence, it may need to work more often or longer to keep your residence at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the top energy-efficient technology to keep your house comfortable and cooling expenses reasonable.
  • Your air conditioner has R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was purchased before 2010, there’s a good chance it has Freon. Also called R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being made due to 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 extraordinarily 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 best to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t needed all the time or inexpensive. The best way to prevent unexpected repairs is to have annual work scheduled. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are economical, 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 often 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 protected by warranty, we suggest fixing it.

Air Conditioner Cost

Most 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 precise cost {might|could|may] vary.

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

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

We give free estimates at Stephen Hurst Pack Heating and Cooling 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 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 home cool. And one that’s too large might turn on and off too often, or short cycle. This behavior can drive up your energy costs and wear your air conditioner out prematurely. This might also create temperature variability and make your home feel less cool.

At Stephen Hurst Pack Heating and Cooling, our professionals have many years of experience in correctly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your home. The size you need depends on how large your residence is, in addition to a few other factors. 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 affect air conditioner size are:

  • The climate in Circleville.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your house has and the style, because expansive or picture windows may be less efficient.
  • If your residence gets more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and thickness.
  • How many people live in your home.

SEER 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 bigger the number, the more efficient the air conditioner is.

When you’re getting a new air conditioner, it’s essential to realize:

  • Older air conditioners are rated 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 additional features to help you save more. These features may involve variable-speed cooling. Instead of going at full speed constantly, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds adjusted for your cooling needs. This leads to quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a better SEER rating is usually higher priced, it may be eligible for valuable rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime may help it pay for itself.

Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Stephen Hurst Pack Heating and Cooling Right Away

When you’re researching air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as important as the model you choose. Stephen Hurst Pack Heating and Cooling is one of the number one names for air conditioning installation in Circleville. From helping you choose the recommended solution for your home to discussing financing options to professional installation, partnering with our professionals is a breeze. Call us at 740-474-5940 to get started right away!