With proper maintenance, your air conditioner can work for 15 years or greater. But even the best maintained air conditioner will need to be updated down the road.
When you’re starting to plan for air conditioning installation in Chadron, we know that cost tops your list of questions. The bright side is that buying a new air conditioner may be more reasonable than you think it is, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also get enhanced energy efficiency, which will typically pay off over its life span through cheaper utility bills.
Here’s what to expect when you’re installing a new air conditioner.
When to Replace Your Air Conditioner
Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner might be difficult. Here’s what our pros advise.
Replace
- Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some may last longer, many air conditioners last for around 15 years with regular maintenance. We recommend getting ready for air conditioning replacement close to the 10-year mark. Even if you get 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 costs.
- You’ve neglected regular maintenance for many years. Much like a car, you cooling system needs routine air conditioning maintenance. Overlooking this essential service can cause reduced efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a reduced life span.
- Your air conditioner requires frequent or expensive repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the outcome of overlooking tune-ups. But as your air conditioner ages, it’s more likely to suffer a catastrophic problem. When repairs are higher than half the cost of a new air conditioner, it’s time to get a new one.
- Your house is uncomfortable. If your home feels too humid or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in certain areas, your air conditioner may be struggling to keep up. This is a sign it’s time to replace it.
- Your utility bills are expensive. Your air conditioner becomes less efficient as it becomes older. As a consequence, it may need to work more often or longer to keep your residence at your desired setting. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your house comfy and utility expenses low.
- Your air conditioner has R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was installed before 2010, there’s a good chance it has Freon. Also called R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being made as a result of its damaging effects on the environment. You can keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to experience a refrigerant leak, fixing that would be extremely expensive. This is since R-22 is only available in limited, recycled amounts.
Repair
- Your air conditioner is no more than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s best to repair it.
- Repairs aren’t needed all the time or reasonable. The wisest way to prevent unexpected repairs is to have regular maintenance completed. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are economical, repair your air conditioner.
- Your air conditioner has a valid warranty. Most air conditioners include a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that often covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is determined by your manufacturer, but it gives valuable protection in the event of a huge failure. If your air conditioner is under warranty, we suggest 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 precise cost may be different.
There are a couple of details that affect your total cost, such as:
- The air conditioner model you select, as more energy-efficient ones are higher priced.
- The size you need.
- If you need to install new ductwork, which can be needed if your ductwork is aging or damaged.
We offer free estimates at MPC Heating & Cooling so you can know 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 critical. A system that’s too small won’t be able to keep your home cool. And one that’s too big may turn on and off too often, or short cycle. This behavior can inflate your energy bill and wear your air conditioner out prematurely. This may also lead to temperature inconsistencies and make your house feel less comfy.
At MPC Heating & Cooling, our professionals 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 residence is, in addition to several 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 affect air conditioner size are:
- The temperatures in Chadron
- Ductwork quality and age
- How many windows your home has and the style, as expansive or picture windows may be less efficient
- If your house 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 ranking measures how well it consumes electricity to create cooling. The higher the rating, the more efficient the air conditioner is.
When you’re getting a new air conditioner, it’s important to be aware:
- 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 no less than 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 come with more features to help you save more. These features may include variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at full blast constantly, these air conditioners can reduce blower speeds customized for your cooling requirements. This results in quieter and more energy-efficient cooling. While an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating is usually more expensive, it could be eligible for more rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime could help it pay for itself.
Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with MPC Heating & Cooling Right Away
When you’re doing air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as important as the model you choose. MPC Heating & Cooling is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Chadron. From helping you select the ideal solution for your house to discussing financing options to professional installation, working with us is a breeze. Reach us at 308-832-4321 to begin right away!