With ample maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or longer. But even the most well- maintained air conditioner will need to be replaced down the road.
When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Rockford, we know that cost is number one on your list of questions. The good news is that buying a new air conditioner could be more affordable than you realize, thanks to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also receive enhanced energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over time through lower electricity bills.
Here’s what to anticipate when you’re installing a new air conditioner.
When to Replace Your Air Conditioner
Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner might be hard. Here’s what our pros suggest.
Replace
- Your air conditioner is more than 10 years old. While some may last longer, the majority of air conditioners run for around 15 years with regular maintenance. We recommend getting ready for air conditioning replacement around the 10-year point. 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 costs.
- You’ve neglected annual maintenance for many years. Much like a car, you cooling system requires routine air conditioning maintenance. Skipping this crucial service can result in diminished efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a shorter life span.
- Your air conditioner has to have frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is often the consequence of skipping service. But as your air conditioner ages, it’s more likely to have a catastrophic breakdown. When repairs are higher than half the cost of a new air conditioner, you should get a new one.
- Your house isn’t comfortable. If your home feels too sticky or you’re having hot and cold spots in specific areas, your air conditioner could be having difficulty keeping up. This is a hint you should replace it.
- Your energy bills are high. Your air conditioner becomes less efficient as it ages. Consequently, it might need to operate more frequently or longer to keep your house at your desired setting. Newer air conditioners have the top energy-efficient technology to keep your home cool and cooling bills down.
- Your air conditioner has R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was installed before 2010, there’s a good chance it has Freon. Also known as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being made as a result of its bad effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to experience a refrigerant leak, fixing that would be very expensive. This is since 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 are infrequent or inexpensive. The best way to prevent unexpected repairs is to have yearly service done. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are economical, repair your air conditioner.
- Your air conditioner is under warranty. Most air conditioners are accompanied by a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that often 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 under warranty, we suggest fixing it.
Air Conditioner Cost
The majority of homeowners spend around $4,631 on a new air conditioner, according to national averages compiled by HomeGuide. Air conditioner cost averages often range from $3,350 to $5,912, but your exact cost could be different.
There are a couple of factors that affect your total cost, such as:
- The air conditioner model you choose, because more energy-efficient ones are higher priced.
- The size your home needs.
- If you need to put in new ductwork, which can be required if your ductwork is dated or damaged.
We offer free estimates at Temperature Doctors Heating & Cooling, Inc 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 accommodates just about any budget.
Air Conditioner Size
Air conditioner size is crucial. A system that’s too small won’t be able to keep your residence cool. And one that’s too big may turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This action can inflate your cooling costs and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This could also create temperature inconsistencies and make your residence feel less comfortable.
At Temperature Doctors Heating & Cooling, Inc, our professionals have many years of experience in correctly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your house. The ideal size depends on how spacious your home is, plus a few other considerations. 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 things that can impact air conditioner size are:
- The weather in Rockford
- Ductwork quality and age
- How many windows your house has and the style, since expansive or picture windows may be more inefficient
- If your home has more sun or shade
- Insulation quality and thickness
- 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 uses electricity to create cooling. The greater the rating, the more efficient the air conditioner is.
When you’re buying a new air conditioner, it’s crucial to realize:
- Dated 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 more features to help you save more. These features may include variable-speed cooling. Instead of going at full blast constantly, these air conditioners can reduce blower speeds adjusted for your cooling preferences. This creates quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating is usually higher priced, it might be eligible for valuable rebates. And the energy savings over its life span may help it pay for itself.
Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Temperature Doctors Heating & Cooling, Inc Today
When you’re planning for air conditioning replacement, the company who hooks it up is just as essential as the model you select. Temperature Doctors Heating & Cooling, Inc is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Rockford. From helping you choose the right solution for your home to reviewing financing options to professional installation, working with our pros is a breeze. Reach us at (815)914-6197 to begin today!