With ample maintenance, your air conditioner can work for 15 years or longer. But even the best maintained air conditioner will need to be updated at some point.

When you’re starting to plan for air conditioning installation in Newark, we know that the price is at the top of your list of questions. The good news is that installing a new air conditioner might be more affordable than you are aware, due to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also receive better energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over time through less expensive electricity bills.

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

When to Schedule Air Conditioner Replacement

Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner might be tricky. Here’s what we advise.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some may last longer, the majority of air conditioners run for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We advise getting ready for air conditioning replacement near the 10-year age. Even if you replace it when it’s only a decade old, the U.S. Department of Energy says this swap could save you 20-40% on cooling costs.
  • You’ve skipped regular maintenance for a long time. Just like a car, your cooling system needs regular air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this critical service can result in diminished efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a shorter life span.
  • Your air conditioner requires frequent or expensive repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the outcome of not doing service But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to experience a catastrophic breakdown. When repairs are greater than half the cost of a new air conditioner, you should get a new one.
  • Your residence feels unpleasant. If your residence feels too muggy or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in given spaces, your air conditioner might be having difficulty keeping up. This is a clue you should replace it.
  • Your energy bills are expensive. Your air conditioner becomes less efficient as it gets older. As a consequence, it might need to run more often or longer to keep your house at your desired temp. Newer air conditioners have the top energy-efficient technology to keep your house comfy and energy bills low.
  • Your air conditioner has R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was replaced before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it has Freon. Also known as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being produced because of its damaging 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 portions.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is less than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s best to repair it.
  2. Repairs are infrequent or inexpensive. The best way to stop unexpected repairs is to have yearly service completed. But when repairs are only needed not very often or are reasonable, 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 is determined by your manufacturer, but it gives valuable protection in the event of a big failure. If your air conditioner is covered by warranty, we recommend fixing it.

General Estimate of 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 exact cost {might|could|may] be different.

There are a couple of aspects that influence your total cost, such as:

  • The air conditioner model you choose, since more energy-efficient ones are higher priced.
  • The size your space needs.
  • If you need to put in new ductwork, which can be required if your ductwork is old or inefficient.

We provide free estimates at Luikart Heating & Cooling so you can know 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.

The Size of the AC System

Air conditioner size is critical. A system that’s too little won’t be able to keep your home cool. And one that’s too big could turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This act can increase your energy bill and wear your air conditioner out prematurely. This might also lead to temperature instabilities and make your home feel less comfy.

At Luikart Heating & Cooling, our techs have many years of experience in properly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your home. The right size depends on how large your house is, plus a few 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 considerations that can influence air conditioner size are:

  • The weather in Newark.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your house has and the style, as expansive or picture windows might be less efficient.
  • If your house receives more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and thickness.
  • How many people are in your family.

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is impacted by its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This rating measures how efficiently it consumes 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 crucial to be aware:

  • Dated air conditioners are rated 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 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 include variable-speed cooling. Instead of going at full blast constantly, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds based on your cooling requirements. This creates quieter and more energy-efficient cooling. While an air conditioner with a greater SEER rating is often pricier, it may be eligible for extra rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime could help it pay for itself.

Request a Free Quote for Your Air Conditioning Installation with Luikart Heating & Cooling Right Away

When you’re preparing for air conditioning replacement, the company who hooks it up is just as critical as the model you select. Luikart Heating & Cooling is one of the number one names for air conditioning installation in Newark. From helping you select the recommended solution for your house to going over financing options to professional installation, collaborating with us is a breeze. Call us at 740-344-5497 to begin right away!