With proper maintenance, your air conditioner can run for 15 years or more. But even the most well- maintained air conditioner will need to be replaced eventually.
When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Rock Hill, we are aware that cost is number one on your list of questions. The silver lining is that installing a new air conditioner could be more affordable than you think it is, thanks to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also enjoy enhanced energy efficiency, which will likely pay off over time through cheaper electrical bills.
Here’s what to prepare for when you’re replacing your air conditioner.
When to Replace Your Air Conditioner
Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner can be hard. Here’s what our professionals advise.
Replace
- Your air conditioner is past 10 years old. While some could last longer, the majority of air conditioners last for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We suggest getting ready for air conditioning replacement around the 10-year age. 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 avoided annual maintenance for many years. Much like a car, you cooling system needs annual air conditioning maintenance. Overlooking this important service can lead to diminished efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a shorter life span.
- Your air conditioner has to have frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is often the outcome of overlooking service. But as your air conditioner gets older, it’s more likely to suffer a major breakdown. When repairs are higher than half the cost of a new air conditioner, you should get a new one.
- Your home isn’t comfortable. If your residence feels too sticky or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in specific spaces, your air conditioner might be having a hard time keeping up. This is a clue you need to replace it.
- Your energy bills are high. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it ages. As a consequence, it may need to run more repeatedly or longer to keep your residence at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the top energy-efficient technology to keep your residence comfortable and cooling expenses down.
- Your air conditioner uses R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was replaced before 2010, there’s a good chance it uses Freon. Also called R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being manufactured due to its detrimental effects on the environment. You can carry on with using your air conditioner, but if it were to have a refrigerant leak, solving that would be extremely expensive. This is due to the fact R-22 is only available in limited, recycled portions.
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 economical. The smartest way to stop emergency repairs is to have routine maintenance completed. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are economical, repair your air conditioner.
- Your air conditioner is under warranty. Most air conditioners include a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that often covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length depends on your manufacturer, but it offers valuable protection in the event of a big failure. If your air conditioner is under warranty, we recommend 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 could be lower or higher.
There are a couple of factors that influence your total cost, like:
- The air conditioner model you install, since more energy-efficient ones are higher priced.
- The size your home needs.
- If you need to install new ductwork, which can happen if your ductwork is aging or inefficient.
We provide free estimates at US Air Heating and Cooling so you can be confident you’re getting a good deal. And with our full range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that works with just about any budget.
Air Conditioner Size
Air conditioner size is crucial. A system that’s too small will have difficulty keeping your residence cool. And one that’s oversized may turn on and off too often, or short cycle. This act can inflate your energy bill and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This might also lead to temperature variability and make your house feel less comfortable.
At US Air Heating and Cooling, our pros have many years of experience in accurately sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your residence. The ideal size depends on how big your home is, in addition to a couple other things. 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 influence air conditioner size are:
- The climate in Rock Hill
- Ductwork quality and age
- How many windows your house has and the style, as big or picture windows might be less efficient
- If your house receives more sun or shade
- Insulation quality and concentration
- 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 rating 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 realize:
- Old air conditioners are rated 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 additional features to help you save more. These features may entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at full blast continuously, these air conditioners can fine-tune blower speeds based on your cooling requirements. This results in quieter and more energy-efficient cooling. While an air conditioner with a better SEER rating is usually more expensive, it could be eligible for valuable rebates. And the energy savings over its life span might help it pay for itself.
Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with US Air Heating and Cooling Now
When you’re planning for air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as important as the model you select. US Air Heating and Cooling is one of the number one names for air conditioning installation in Rock Hill. From helping you select the right solution for your residence to going over financing options to professional installation, working with our professionals is a breeze. Contact us at 803-220-0761 to start today!