With adequate maintenance, your air conditioner can run for 15 years or greater. But even the most meticulously maintained air conditioner will need to be updated at some point.
When you’re beginning to plan for air conditioning installation in Newark, we realize that cost is number one on your list of questions. The bright side is that installing a new air conditioner might be more affordable than you realize, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also enjoy better energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over time through cheaper electrical bills.
Here’s what to anticipate when you’re replacing your air conditioner.
When to Replace Your Air Conditioner
Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner can be tricky. Here’s what our professionals recommend.
Replace
- Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some might work longer, most air conditioners run for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We suggest getting ready 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 change could save you 20-40% on cooling costs.
- You’ve avoided annual maintenance for many years. Just like a car, you cooling system requires routine air conditioning maintenance. Overlooking this crucial service can result in lower efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a shorter life span.
- Your air conditioner requires frequent or expensive repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is often the consequence of skipping service. But as your air conditioner gets older, it’s more likely to experience a major 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 muggy or you’re having hot and cold spots in specific rooms, your air conditioner might be having a hard time keeping up. This is a sign you should replace it.
- Your utility bills are high. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it ages. Consequently, it may need to work more repeatedly or longer to keep your home at your desired setting. Newer air conditioners have the top energy-efficient technology to keep your residence comfortable and cooling bills down.
- Your air conditioner has R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was purchased before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it has Freon. Also called R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being produced because of its bad effects on the environment. You can keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to develop a refrigerant leak, repairing that would be very expensive. This is due to the fact R-22 is only available in limited, recycled amounts.
Repair
- Your air conditioner is under 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s wisest to repair it.
- Repairs aren’t common or reasonable. The smartest way to avoid unexpected repairs is to have regular service scheduled. But when repairs are only needed every so often or are inexpensive, repair your air conditioner.
- Your air conditioner is under warranty. Most air conditioners come with a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that usually covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length depends on your manufacturer, but it provides valuable protection in the event of a huge failure. If your air conditioner is covered by warranty, we recommend fixing it.
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 be different.
There are a couple of details that affect your total cost, such as:
- The air conditioner model you choose, because more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
- The size your home needs.
- If you need to install new ductwork, which can be required if your ductwork is dated or damaged.
We provide free estimates at Luikart Heating & Cooling so you can be sure you’re getting a good deal. And with our complete 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 will have difficulty keeping your residence cool. And one that’s too large might turn on and off too often, or short cycle. This behavior can drive up your energy expenses and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This might also lead to temperature variability and make your house feel less comfortable.
At Luikart Heating & Cooling, our technicians have many years of experience in accurately sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your residence. The ideal size depends on how spacious your house is, along with a couple other considerations. 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 factors that can affect air conditioner size are:
- The weather in Newark
- Ductwork quality and age
- How many windows your home has and the style, because big or picture windows can be lower efficiency
- If your residence receives more sun or shade
- Insulation quality and depth
- How many people are in your family
SEER Ratings
Your air conditioner’s efficiency is linked to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This number measures how proficiently it uses electricity to create cooling. The higher the ranking, the more efficient the air conditioner is.
When you’re installing a new air conditioner, it’s crucial 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 a minimum of 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 extra features to help you save more. These features may entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at full speed continuously, these air conditioners can fine-tune blower speeds customized for your cooling requirements. This leads to quieter and more energy-efficient comfort. While an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating is typically higher priced, it might be eligible for valuable rebates. And the energy savings over time may help it pay for itself.
Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Luikart Heating & Cooling Right Away
When you’re doing air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as critical as the model you select. Luikart Heating & Cooling is one of the most trusted names for air conditioning installation in Newark. From helping you choose the right solution for your house to going over financing options to professional installation, collaborating with our pros is a breeze. Contact us at 740-200-5591 to start right away!