With proper maintenance, your air conditioner can run for 15 years or longer. But even the most well- maintained air conditioner will need to be replaced eventually.
When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Wharton, we are aware that cost is at the top of your list of questions. The good news is that buying a new air conditioner may be more affordable than you are aware, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also get improved energy efficiency, which will likely pay off over the years through less expensive electricity bills.
Here’s what to expect 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 difficult. Here’s what we advise.
Replace
- Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some could last longer, many air conditioners run for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We suggest planning for air conditioning replacement near the 10-year point. Even if you install 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 skipped routine maintenance for a long time. Much like a car, you cooling system requires regular air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this crucial service can lead to reduced efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a decreased life span.
- Your air conditioner has to have frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is frequently the consequence of not doing service. But as your air conditioner gets old, it’s more likely to suffer a big malfunction. When repairs are more than half the cost of a new air conditioner, we recommend getting a new one.
- Your home feels unpleasant. If your residence feels too sticky or you’re dealing with hot and cold spots in specific spaces, your air conditioner might be having a hard time keeping up. This is a clue it’s time to replace it.
- Your cooling bills are high. Your air conditioner loses efficiency as it becomes older. Consequently, it might need to operate more frequently or longer to keep your home at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your house comfy and electrical expenses reasonable.
- Your air conditioner runs on R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was installed before 2010, there’s a good chance it has Freon. Also called R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being manufactured because of its detrimental effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to experience a refrigerant leak, repairing that would be extraordinarly expensive. This is due to the fact R-22 is only available in limited, recycled amounts.
Repair
- Your air conditioner is less than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s best to repair it.
- Repairs are infrequent or economical. The wisest way to prevent unanticipated repairs is to have routine work scheduled. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are inexpensive, 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 typically covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is determined by your manufacturer, but it offers valuable protection in the event of a major failure. If your air conditioner is covered by warranty, we advise fixing it.
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 precise cost could vary.
There are a couple of details that impact your total cost, like:
- The air conditioner model you choose, as more energy-efficient ones are higher priced.
- The size your home needs.
- If you need to install new ductwork, which can be needed if your ductwork is old or separated.
We give free estimates at Faust Air Conditioning and Heating so you can be confident you’re getting a fantastic deal. And with our complete 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 will struggle to keep your home cool. And one that’s too large might turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This action can drive up your utility bill and wear your air conditioner out prematurely. This might also create temperature inconsistencies and make your home feel less comfortable.
At Faust Air Conditioning and Heating, our pros have many years of experience in properly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your house. The right size depends on how large your residence is, plus 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 impact air conditioner size are:
- The climate in Wharton
- Ductwork quality and age
- How many windows your home has and the style, as large or picture windows can be more inefficient
- If your home receives more sun or shade
- Insulation quality and concentration
- 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 proficiently it transforms 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 crucial to realize:
- Old air conditioners are rated around 8-9 SEER.
- New 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 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 include extra features to help you save more. These features may involve variable-speed cooling. Instead of going at 100% constantly, these air conditioners can fine-tune blower speeds based on your cooling requirements. This leads to quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a better SEER rating is typically more expensive, it may be eligible for additional rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime could help it pay for itself.
Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Faust Air Conditioning and Heating Now
When you’re planning for air conditioning replacement, the company who puts it in is just as critical as the model you go with. Faust Air Conditioning and Heating is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Wharton. From helping you choose the recommended solution for your home to going over financing options to professional installation, partnering with us is a breeze. Reach us at 979-323-6130 to begin now!