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

When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Circleville, we know that cost is at the top of your list of questions. The good news is that installing a new air conditioner could be more economical than you are aware, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also receive better energy efficiency, which will typically pay off over time through less expensive electrical 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 suggest.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is more than 10 years old. While some could run longer, the majority of air conditioners work for around 15 years with regular maintenance. We suggest prepping for air conditioning replacement near the 10-year mark. Even if you install 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 expenses.
  • You’ve neglected regular maintenance for many years. Much like a car, your cooling system has to have routine air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this essential service can result in diminished efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a reduced life span.
  • Your air conditioner needs frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is frequently the result of overlooking service But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to suffer a big breakdown. When repairs are higher than half the cost of a new air conditioner, you should get a new one.
  • Your residence isn’t comfortable. If your home feels too humid or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in given areas, your air conditioner may be having a hard time keeping up. This is a sign it’s time to replace it.
  • Your cooling bills are high. Your air conditioner becomes less efficient as it gets older. As a result, it might need to work more frequently or longer to keep your residence at your desired setting. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your residence comfy and cooling costs reasonable.
  • Your air conditioner has 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 due to its bad effects on the environment. You can keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to develop a refrigerant leak, solving that would be very expensive. This is due to the fact R-22 is only available in limited, recycled amounts.

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 are infrequent or reasonable. The wisest way to prevent unexpected repairs is to have yearly maintenance completed. But when repairs are only needed not very often or are inexpensive, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner is under warranty. Most air conditioners come with a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that typically covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length depends on your manufacturer, but it gives valuable protection in the event of a huge failure. If your air conditioner is protected by warranty, we suggest fixing it.

Average Air Conditioner Cost

Many 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 total cost {might|could|may] vary.

There are a couple of details that influence your total cost, such as:

  • The air conditioner model you install, because more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
  • The size you need.
  • If you need to put in new ductwork, which can be needed 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 fantastic deal. And with our wide range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that accommodates just about any budget.

The Size of the AC System

Air conditioner size is essential. A system that’s undersized will have difficulty keeping your house cool. And one that’s too big could turn on and off too many times, or short cycle. This behavior can increase your cooling costs and wear your air conditioner out faster. This may also cause temperature instabilities and make your house feel less comfortable.

At Stephen Hurst Pack Heating and Cooling, our technicians have many years of experience in correctly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your residence. The ideal size depends on how big your residence is, along with a couple other considerations. 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 factors that can influence air conditioner size are:

  • The temperatures in Circleville.
  • 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 receives more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and concentration.
  • How many people are in your household.

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is impacted by its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This rating measures how proficiently it uses electricity to create cooling. The higher the ranking, the more efficient the air conditioner is.

When you’re buying a new air conditioner, it’s essential to be aware:

  • Old air conditioners are ranked around 8-9 SEER.
  • Updated air conditioners start at 13 SEER. Ones installed in the southwest and southeast must be a minimum of 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 entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at full blast constantly, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds adjusted for your cooling requirements. This creates quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating is often more expensive, it could be eligible for extra rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime might help it pay for itself.

Request a Free Quote for Your Air Conditioning Installation with Stephen Hurst Pack Heating and Cooling Today

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