With ample maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or greater. But even the most meticulously maintained air conditioner will need to be updated eventually.
When you’re beginning to plan for air conditioning installation in Libertyville, we are aware that the price is number one on your list of questions. The good news is that buying a new air conditioner might be more reasonable than you realize, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also enjoy better energy efficiency, which will typically pay off over time through cheaper utility bills.
Here’s what to prepare for 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 tricky. Here’s what our pros recommend.
Replace
- Your air conditioner is past 10 years old. While some might run longer, most air conditioners run for around 15 years with regular maintenance. We suggest getting ready for air conditioning replacement close to the 10-year age. Even if you replace it 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 annual maintenance for many years. Just like a car, you cooling system has to have routine air conditioning maintenance. Skipping this important service can result in diminished efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a decreased life span.
- Your air conditioner has to have frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the result of not doing service. But as your air conditioner gets older, it’s more likely to suffer a big problem. When repairs are more than half the cost of a new air conditioner, it’s time to get a new one.
- Your house isn’t comfortable. If your residence feels too muggy or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in given rooms, your air conditioner may be having a hard time keeping up. This is a clue you need to replace it.
- Your utility bills are expensive. Your air conditioner loses efficiency as it becomes older. As a result, it might need to operate more repeatedly or longer to keep your home at your desired temp. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your house comfortable and energy costs low.
- Your air conditioner runs on R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was purchased before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it runs on Freon. Also referred to as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being manufactured due to its damaging effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to experience a refrigerant leak, solving that would be extremely expensive. This is due to the fact R-22 is only available in limited, recycled quantities.
Repair
- Your air conditioner is no more 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 stop unanticipated repairs is to have regular service completed. But when repairs are only needed not very often or are economical, repair your air conditioner.
- Your air conditioner is covered by a warranty. Most air conditioners are accompanied by a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that typically covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is up to your manufacturer, but it provides valuable protection in the event of a huge 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, according to national averages compiled by HomeGuide. Air conditioner cost averages often range from $3,350 to $5,912, but your precise cost may vary.
There are several aspects that influence your total cost, like:
- The air conditioner model you install, because more energy-efficient ones are higher priced.
- The size you need.
- If you need to put in new ductwork, which can be needed if your ductwork is old or separated.
We provide free estimates at TopTec Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical so you can be confident you’re getting a good deal. And with our wide 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 little won’t be able to keep your residence cool. And one that’s too large might turn on and off too often, or short cycle. This act can inflate your energy bill and wear your air conditioner out faster. This may also lead to temperature inconsistencies and make your home feel less comfy.
At TopTec Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical, our pros have many years of experience in accurately sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your residence. The right size depends on how big your residence is, plus a couple other things. 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 Libertyville
- Ductwork quality and age
- How many windows your home has and the style, because big or picture windows may be less efficient
- If your house has more sun or shade
- Insulation quality and thickness
- How many people live in your home
SEER Ratings
Your air conditioner’s efficiency is linked to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This rating measures how well it uses electricity to create cooling. The greater 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 classified around 8-9 SEER.
- Modern 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 come with additional features to help you save more. These features may include variable-speed cooling. Instead of going at full speed continuously, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds based on your cooling preferences. This leads to quieter and more energy-efficient cooling. While an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating is usually more expensive, it might be eligible for extra rebates. And the energy savings over its life span may help it pay for itself.
Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with TopTec Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical Right Away
When you’re researching air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as essential as the model you go with. TopTec Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Libertyville. From helping you find the right solution for your residence to reviewing financing options to professional installation, working with our professionals is a breeze. Contact us at 847-362-0262 to start right away!