With adequate maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or longer. But even the best maintained air conditioner will need to be removed eventually.

When you’re starting to plan for air conditioning installation in Libertyville, we know that the price tops your list of questions. The bright side is that buying a new air conditioner might be more affordable than you realize, due to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also enjoy improved energy efficiency, which will likely pay off over time through less expensive utility 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 hard. Here’s what our pros suggest.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some may run longer, many air conditioners last for around 15 years with routine maintenance. We suggest planning for air conditioning replacement close to the 10-year mark. Even if you replace it when it’s only a decade old, the U.S. Department of Energy says this tweak could save you 20-40% on cooling costs.
  • You’ve avoided regular maintenance for a long time. Much like a car, your cooling system needs regular air conditioning maintenance. Overlooking this crucial service can result in diminished efficiency, more frequent repairs and even a shorter life span.
  • Your air conditioner needs frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is often the result of overlooking service But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to suffer a catastrophic malfunction. When repairs are higher than half the cost of a new air conditioner, you should get a new one.
  • Your residence is uncomfortable. If your home feels too humid or you’re having hot and cold spots in specific areas, your air conditioner may be having a hard time keeping up. This is a hint you need 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 operate more often or longer to keep your house at your desired setting. Newer air conditioners have the top energy-efficient technology to keep your house comfy and utility bills down.
  • Your air conditioner runs on 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 because of its bad effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to have a refrigerant leak, solving that would be very expensive. This is since R-22 is only available in limited, recycled portions.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is no more than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s wisest to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t needed all the time or economical. The wisest way to avoid unanticipated repairs is to have annual maintenance done. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are economical, 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 covered by warranty, we suggest fixing it.

Air Conditioner Cost

Many 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 a couple of factors that impact your total cost, like:

  • The air conditioner model you install, since more energy-efficient ones are pricier.
  • The size your space needs.
  • If you need to put in new ductwork, which can happen if your ductwork is aging or separated.

We give free estimates at TopTec so you can be confident 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.

Air Conditioner Size

Air conditioner size is crucial. A system that’s undersized will have difficulty keeping your home cool. And one that’s too big might turn on and off too often, or short cycle. This act can increase your cooling costs and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This could also lead to temperature variability and make your residence feel less comfortable.

At TopTec, our technicians have many years of experience in correctly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your house. The right size depends on how big your house is, along with a few other things. Some of the most typical 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 considerations that can impact air conditioner size are:

  • The temperatures in Libertyville.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your home has and the style, as big or picture windows can be more inefficient.
  • If your house receives more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and depth.
  • 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 ranking measures how well it transforms electricity to create cooling. The higher the number, the more efficient the air conditioner is.

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

  • Old air conditioners are rated around 8-9 SEER.
  • Updated 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 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 have additional features to help you save more. These features may entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at full speed constantly, these air conditioners can fine-tune blower speeds customized for your cooling needs. This results in quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a better SEER rating is often pricier, it could be eligible for extra rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime might help it pay for itself.

Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with TopTec Today

When you’re researching air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as essential as the model you choose. TopTec is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Libertyville. From helping you find the right solution for your home to discussing financing options to professional installation, working with our pros is a breeze. Reach us at 847-362-0262 to get started today!