With proper maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or longer. But even the best maintained air conditioner will need to be replaced down the road.
When you’re starting to plan for air conditioning installation in Carpentersville, we are aware that cost is number one on your list of questions. The good news is that buying a new air conditioner might be more economical 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 usually pay off over time through less expensive cooling bills.
Here’s what to expect when you’re getting a new air conditioner.
When to Replace Your Air Conditioner
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 could work longer, the majority of air conditioners run for around 15 years with annual 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 bills.
- You’ve avoided routine maintenance for a long time. Just like a car, you cooling system requires annual air conditioning maintenance. Skipping this essential service can lead to reduced efficiency, more frequent repairs and even a shorter life span.
- Your air conditioner requires frequent or expensive repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the result of skipping maintenance. But as your air conditioner ages, it’s more likely to suffer a catastrophic problem. When repairs are greater than half the cost of a new air conditioner, we recommend getting a new one.
- Your home is uncomfortable. If your house feels too sticky or you’re having hot and cold spots in certain areas, your air conditioner might be having a hard time keeping up. This is a clue it’s time to replace it.
- Your energy bills are costly. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it gets older. Consequently, it may need to work more often or longer to keep your home at your desired temp. Newer air conditioners have the top energy-efficient technology to keep your house comfy and energy costs low.
- Your air conditioner uses R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was replaced before 2010, there’s a good chance it has Freon. Also known as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being manufactured as a result of its damaging effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to have a refrigerant leak, repairing that would be extraordinarly expensive. This is because R-22 is only available in limited, recycled quantities.
Repair
- Your air conditioner is no more than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s wisest to repair it.
- Repairs are infrequent or economical. The best way to avoid unexpected repairs is to have routine maintenance scheduled. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are economical, repair your air conditioner.
- Your air conditioner is under 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 protected by warranty, we recommend fixing it.
Air Conditioner Cost
The majority of 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 may be lower or higher.
There are a few aspects that impact your total cost, like:
- The air conditioner model you choose, as more energy-efficient ones are higher priced.
- The size your space needs.
- If you need to install new ductwork, which can be required if your ductwork is aging or inefficient.
We provide free estimates at Controlled Comfort HVAC Inc so you can be sure you’re getting a fantastic 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 crucial. A system that’s too small will have difficulty keeping your house cool. And one that’s too big may turn on and off too many times, or short cycle. This action can inflate your energy expenses and wear your air conditioner out faster. This might also create temperature variability and make your residence feel less comfy.
At Controlled Comfort HVAC Inc, our professionals have many years of experience in properly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your house. The right size depends on how large your home is, along with several 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 impact air conditioner size are:
- The climate in Carpentersville
- Ductwork quality and age
- How many windows your home has and the style, because big or picture windows may be lower efficiency
- If your residence receives more sun or shade
- Insulation quality and thickness
- How many people live in your home
SEER Ratings
Your air conditioner’s efficiency is linked to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This rating measures how proficiently it consumes electricity to create cooling. The higher the rating, the more efficient the air conditioner is.
When you’re buying a new air conditioner, it’s crucial 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 no less than 14 SEER due to U.S. Department of Energy regulations. 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 going at 100% all the time, these air conditioners can fine-tune blower speeds customized for your cooling requirements. This results in quieter and more energy-efficient comfort. While an air conditioner with a greater SEER rating is often pricier, it may be eligible for more rebates. And the energy savings over its life span could help it pay for itself.
Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Controlled Comfort HVAC Inc Right Away
When you’re preparing for air conditioning replacement, the company who hooks it up is just as essential as the model you go with. Controlled Comfort HVAC Inc is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Carpentersville. From helping you choose the recommended solution for your residence to going over financing options to professional installation, partnering with our pros is a breeze. Reach us at 224-412-8308 to start right away!