With ample maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or greater. But even the most well-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 good news is that buying a new air conditioner may be more economical than you are aware, thanks to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also enjoy improved energy efficiency, which will typically pay off over the years through less expensive electrical bills.

Here’s what to prepare for when you’re replacing your air conditioner.

The Best Time to Replace Your Air Conditioner

Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner can be tricky. Here’s what our professionals suggest.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is more than 10 years old. While some might last longer, most air conditioners run for around 15 years with regular maintenance. We recommend planning for air conditioning replacement near the 10-year age. Even if you install a new one when it’s only a decade old, the U.S. Department of Energy says this tweak could save you 20-40% on cooling expenses.
  • You’ve avoided annual maintenance for too long. Just like a car, your cooling system needs regular air conditioning maintenance. Overlooking this critical service can cause diminished efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a shorter life span.
  • Your air conditioner requires frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is often the outcome of skipping service But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to experience a catastrophic problem. When repairs are higher than half the cost of a new air conditioner, we recommend getting a new one.
  • Your house is uncomfortable. If your house feels too sticky or you’re having hot and cold spots in given areas, your air conditioner could be struggling to keep up. This is a hint it’s time to replace it.
  • Your cooling bills are expensive. Your air conditioner loses efficiency as it ages. Consequently, it could need to run more repeatedly or longer to keep your house at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the most up-to-date energy-efficient technology to keep your house comfortable and electrical costs reasonable.
  • Your air conditioner has R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was purchased before 2010, there’s a good chance it has Freon. Also known as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being made because of its damaging effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to have a refrigerant leak, repairing that would be extremely expensive. This is due to the fact R-22 is only available in limited, recycled portions.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is under 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s best to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t needed all the time or inexpensive. The best way to stop emergency repairs is to have yearly work done. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are economical, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner is covered by a warranty. Most air conditioners are accompanied by a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that usually covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length depends on your manufacturer, but it offers valuable protection in the event of a major failure. If your air conditioner is under warranty, we advise fixing it.

Typical 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 few details that influence your total cost, like:

  • The air conditioner model you choose, since more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
  • The size you need.
  • If you need to replace your ductwork, which can happen if your ductwork is old or damaged.

We give free estimates at TopTec so you can be confident you’re getting a great deal. And with our full range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that fits just about any budget.

The Size of the AC System

Air conditioner size is critical. A system that’s undersized won’t be able to keep your house cool. And one that’s too big might turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This action can drive up your utility expenses and wear your air conditioner out faster. This could also create temperature variability and make your home feel less comfy.

At TopTec, our techs 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 home is, plus 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 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, since big or picture windows might be lower efficiency.
  • If your house receives more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and depth.
  • How many people are in your household.

SEER Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is tied to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This ranking measures how efficiently it transforms electricity to create cooling. The greater the ranking, the more efficient the air conditioner is.

When you’re buying a new air conditioner, it’s crucial to know:

  • Dated air conditioners are classified around 8-9 SEER.
  • Updated 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 include more features to help you save more. These features may entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of going at 100% all the time, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds customized for your cooling needs. This leads to quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating is often pricier, it might be eligible for additional rebates. And the energy savings over its life span might help it pay for itself.

Request a Free Quote for Your Air Conditioning Installation with TopTec Right Away

When you’re preparing for air conditioning replacement, the company who puts it in is just as critical as the model you select. TopTec is one of the number one names for air conditioning installation in Libertyville. From helping you select the right solution for your residence to discussing financing options to professional installation, working with our professionals is a breeze. Contact us at 847-362-0262 to get started right away!