
With ample maintenance, your air conditioner can work for 15 years or greater. But even the most well-maintained air conditioner will need to be removed eventually.
When you’re beginning to plan for air conditioning installation in Brookfield, we realize that the price is number one on your list of questions. The silver lining is that installing a new air conditioner might be more economical than you think it is, thanks to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also enjoy improved energy efficiency, which will likely pay off over the years through cheaper electrical bills.
Here’s what to prepare for when you’re getting 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 professionals recommend.
Replace
- Your air conditioner is more than 10 years old. While some may work longer, many air conditioners run for around 15 years with routine maintenance. We recommend planning for air conditioning replacement near 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 swap could save you 20-40% on cooling bills.
- You’ve neglected annual maintenance for many years. Much like a car, your cooling system requires routine air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this crucial service can result in lower efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a decreased life span.
- Your air conditioner requires frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is often the outcome of not doing service But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to experience a major malfunction. When repairs are higher than half the cost of a new air conditioner, you should get a new one.
- Your house feels unpleasant. If your house feels too humid or you’re dealing with hot and cold spots in given areas, your air conditioner may be having difficulty keeping up. This is a clue you need to replace it.
- Your cooling bills are high. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it gets older. As a consequence, it could need to work more often 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 comfy and energy costs down.
- Your air conditioner uses R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was purchased before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it has Freon. Also known as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being made as a result of its detrimental effects on the environment. You can keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to develop a refrigerant leak, fixing that would be extremely expensive. This is since 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 smartest way to stop unanticipated repairs is to have yearly work done. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are reasonable, repair your air conditioner.
- Your air conditioner has a valid 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 gives valuable protection in the event of a major failure. If your air conditioner is covered by warranty, we advise 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 total cost {might|could|may] be different.
There are several factors that influence your total cost, such as:
- The air conditioner model you choose, since more energy-efficient ones are pricier.
- The size you need.
- If you need to replace your ductwork, which can be needed if your ductwork is dated or inefficient.
We give free estimates at Central Air LLC so you can be sure you’re getting a good deal. And with our full range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that fits 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 house cool. And one that’s too large may turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This act can drive up your utility expenses and wear your air conditioner out faster. This might also create temperature variability and make your house feel less cool.
At Central Air LLC, our professionals have many years of experience in properly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your home. The ideal size depends on how spacious your home is, plus several other factors. 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 climate in Brookfield.
- Ductwork quality and age.
- How many windows you have and the style, because expansive or picture windows might be lower efficiency.
- If your house gets more sun or shade.
- Insulation quality and depth.
- 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 proficiently it uses electricity to create cooling. The greater the number, the more efficient the air conditioner is.
When you’re getting a new air conditioner, it’s essential to realize:
- Dated air conditioners are ranked 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 requirements. 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 include variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at full blast constantly, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds customized for your cooling requirements. This leads to quieter and more energy-efficient cooling. While an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating is usually more expensive, it could be eligible for additional rebates. And the energy savings over its life span could help it pay for itself.
Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Central Air LLC Right Away
When you’re planning for air conditioning replacement, the company who hooks it up is just as essential as the model you choose. Central Air LLC is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Brookfield. From helping you find the right solution for your residence to going over financing options to professional installation, working with our professionals is a breeze. Contact us at 203-357-5913 to get started right away!