With proper maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or longer. But even the most well-maintained air conditioner will need to be replaced at some point.

When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Middletown, we know that cost is at the top of your list of questions. The silver lining is that buying a new air conditioner could be more affordable than you realize, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also get improved energy efficiency, which will likely pay off over its life span through cheaper electrical 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 professionals suggest.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is past 10 years old. While some may last longer, the majority of air conditioners work for around 15 years with routine maintenance. We recommend getting ready for air conditioning replacement around the 10-year point. Even if you replace it when it’s only a decade old, the U.S. Department of Energy says this tweak could save you 20-40% on cooling expenses.
  • You’ve skipped regular maintenance for a long time. Just like a car, your cooling system has to have routine air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this crucial service can cause diminished efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a shorter life span.
  • Your air conditioner needs frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is often the result of overlooking service But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to have a big breakdown. When repairs are greater than half the cost of a new air conditioner, you should get a new one.
  • Your house isn’t comfortable. If your house feels too humid or you’re dealing with hot and cold spots in given spaces, your air conditioner may be having a hard time keeping up. This is a hint it’s time to replace it.
  • Your energy bills are high. Your air conditioner becomes less efficient as it ages. As a result, it could need to run more repeatedly or longer to keep your house at your desired temp. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your residence comfy and energy expenses reasonable.
  • Your air conditioner runs on R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was installed before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it uses Freon. Also called R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being manufactured due to its detrimental effects on the environment. You can keep using 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 quantities.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is less than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s wisest to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t needed all the time or economical. The smartest way to prevent unexpected repairs is to have annual service completed. But when repairs are only needed every so often or are reasonable, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner has a valid warranty. Most air conditioners come with a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that often covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length depends on your manufacturer, but it gives valuable protection in the event of a major failure. If your air conditioner is protected by warranty, we recommend fixing it.

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 lower or higher.

There are a couple of details that impact your total cost, such as:

  • The air conditioner model you choose, since more energy-efficient ones are pricier.
  • The size your space needs.
  • If you need to replace your ductwork, which can be required if your ductwork is aging or damaged.

We offer free estimates at SchagrinGAS Company so you can be confident you’re getting a good deal. And with our wide 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 will have difficulty keeping your house cool. And one that’s oversized might turn on and off too often, or short cycle. This action can inflate your utility costs and wear your air conditioner out faster. This might also lead to temperature inconsistencies and make your residence feel less comfy.

At SchagrinGAS Company, our professionals have many years of experience in properly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your house. The ideal size depends on how large your house is, in addition to several other considerations. 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 impact air conditioner size are:

  • The climate in Middletown.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your house has and the style, because expansive or picture windows may be less efficient.
  • If your house receives more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and concentration.
  • How many people live in your home.

SEER Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is impacted by its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This rating measures how well it consumes electricity to create cooling. The greater the ranking, the more efficient the air conditioner is.

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

  • Older air conditioners are ranked around 8-9 SEER.
  • Updated 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 additional features to help you save more. These features may entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of running at full blast all the time, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds adjusted for your cooling needs. This creates quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating is usually more expensive, it may be eligible for extra rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime could help it pay for itself.

Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with SchagrinGAS Company Today

When you’re researching air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as essential as the model you go with. SchagrinGAS Company is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Middletown. From helping you choose the ideal solution for your residence to reviewing financing options to professional installation, working with our professionals is a breeze. Contact us at 302-231-1380 to begin today!