With proper maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or longer. But even the most well-maintained air conditioner will need to be updated down the road.

When you’re starting to plan for air conditioning installation in Chadron, we realize that the expense is at the top of your list of questions. The silver lining is that installing a new air conditioner may be more economical than you think it is, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also get improved energy efficiency, which will likely pay off over the years through less expensive cooling bills.

Here’s what to prepare for when you’re installing a new air conditioner.

When You Should Replace Your Air Conditioner

Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner might be tricky. Here’s what our pros recommend.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is more than 10 years old. While some could run longer, many air conditioners work for around 15 years with routine maintenance. We advise 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 swap could save you 20-40% on cooling bills.
  • You’ve avoided regular maintenance for many years. Similar to a car, your cooling system requires routine air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this essential service can result in decreased efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a decreased life span.
  • Your air conditioner has to have frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the result of skipping service But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to suffer a catastrophic breakdown. When repairs are more than half the cost of a new air conditioner, you should get a new one.
  • Your house feels unpleasant. If your residence feels too humid or you’re having hot and cold spots in certain spaces, your air conditioner could be having a hard time keeping up. This is a hint you need to replace it.
  • Your utility bills are high. Your air conditioner loses efficiency as it gets older. Consequently, it might need to work more frequently or longer to keep your house at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your residence cool and energy expenses low.
  • Your air conditioner has R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was purchased before 2010, there’s a decent chance it uses Freon. Also known as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being made due to its damaging effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to have a refrigerant leak, fixing that would be very expensive. This is due to the fact R-22 is only available in limited, recycled amounts.

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 aren’t common or economical. The smartest way to prevent unanticipated repairs is to have yearly work done. But when repairs are only needed not very often or are inexpensive, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner is covered by a warranty. Most air conditioners include a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that typically covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length depends on your manufacturer, but it gives valuable protection in the event of a big failure. If your air conditioner is protected by warranty, we suggest fixing it.

General Estimate of Air Conditioner Cost

Many 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 details that influence your total cost, such as:

  • The air conditioner model you install, as more energy-efficient ones are pricier.
  • The size your home needs.
  • If you need to put in new ductwork, which can be needed if your ductwork is old or inefficient.

We give free estimates at MPC Heating & Cooling so you can know you’re getting a great deal. And with our full range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that accommodates just about any budget.

Air Conditioner Sizing

Air conditioner size is essential. A system that’s undersized won’t be able to keep your residence cool. And one that’s too large might turn on and off too often, or short cycle. This act can drive up your energy bill and wear your air conditioner out faster. This may also create temperature inconsistencies and make your house feel less comfy.

At MPC Heating & Cooling, our technicians have many years of experience in correctly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your residence. The right size depends on how spacious your residence is, plus a couple 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 considerations 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 gets more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and concentration.
  • How many people are in your family.

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is linked to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This number measures how proficiently it consumes electricity to create cooling. The bigger the ranking, the more efficient the air conditioner is.

When you’re installing a new air conditioner, it’s essential to be aware:

  • 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 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 have additional features to help you save more. These features may include variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at full speed continuously, these air conditioners can reduce blower speeds based on your cooling requirements. This creates quieter and more energy-efficient comfort. While an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating is typically higher priced, it may be eligible for additional rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime may help it pay for itself.

Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with MPC Heating & Cooling Now

When you’re preparing for air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as important as the model you go with. MPC Heating & Cooling is one of the number one names for air conditioning installation in Chadron. From helping you choose the recommended solution for your residence to reviewing financing options to professional installation, partnering with our pros is a breeze. Call us at 308-832-4321 to get started now!