With adequate maintenance, your air conditioner can work for 15 years or greater. But even the most well-maintained air conditioner will need to be removed eventually.
When you’re beginning to plan for air conditioning installation in Carpentersville, we are aware that cost is at the top of your list of questions. The good news is that installing a new air conditioner could be more affordable than you are aware, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also enjoy improved energy efficiency, which will typically pay off over the years through less expensive electrical bills.
Here’s what to expect when you’re installing a new air conditioner.
When to Schedule Air Conditioner Replacement
Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner might be tricky. Here’s what our professionals suggest.
Replace
- Your air conditioner is past 10 years old. While some could last longer, many air conditioners run for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We suggest getting ready for air conditioning replacement close to the 10-year point. Even if you install 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 bills.
- You’ve avoided routine maintenance for a long time. Just like a car, your cooling system has to have annual air conditioning maintenance. Overlooking this critical service can cause lower efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a reduced life span.
- Your air conditioner requires frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the outcome of overlooking maintenance But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to experience a major malfunction. When repairs are greater than half the cost of a new air conditioner, we recommend getting a new one.
- Your house is uncomfortable. If your home feels too muggy or you’re dealing with hot and cold spots in specific areas, your air conditioner might be struggling to keep up. This is a sign you need 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 frequently or longer to keep your residence at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the most up-to-date energy-efficient technology to keep your residence comfy and energy costs low.
- Your air conditioner uses R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was installed before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it uses Freon. Also referred to as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being made as a result of its detrimental effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to develop a refrigerant leak, repairing that would be extraordinarily expensive. This is because R-22 is only available in limited, recycled portions.
Repair
- Your air conditioner is less 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 smartest way to prevent emergency repairs is to have yearly maintenance done. But when repairs are only needed every so often 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 offers valuable protection in the event of a big failure. If your air conditioner is covered by warranty, we advise fixing it.
General Estimate of Air Conditioner Cost
The majority of 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 exact cost {might|could|may] be lower or higher.
There are several factors that influence your total cost, including:
- The air conditioner model you select, as more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
- The size your space needs.
- If you need to install new ductwork, which can be needed if your ductwork is aging or inefficient.
We provide free estimates at Controlled Comfort HVAC so you can be confident 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 Sizing
Air conditioner size is crucial. A system that’s undersized won’t be able to keep your residence cool. And one that’s too large could turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This action can increase your cooling costs and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This might also create temperature inconsistencies and make your residence feel less comfy.
At Controlled Comfort HVAC, our technicians have many years of experience in properly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your house. The right size depends on how big 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 considerations that can affect air conditioner size are:
- The climate in Carpentersville.
- Ductwork quality and age.
- How many windows your home has and the style, since big or picture windows can be more inefficient.
- If your residence gets 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 ranking measures how efficiently it consumes electricity to create cooling. The greater the number, the more efficient the air conditioner is.
When you’re buying a new air conditioner, it’s crucial to realize:
- Dated air conditioners are ranked around 8-9 SEER.
- New 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 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 include extra features to help you save more. These features may include variable-speed cooling. Instead of going at full blast constantly, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds adjusted for your cooling requirements. This creates quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a better SEER rating is usually pricier, it may be eligible for extra rebates. And the energy savings over its life span could help it pay for itself.
Schedule Your Air Conditioning Installation with Controlled Comfort HVAC 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 is one of the most trusted names for air conditioning installation in Carpentersville. From helping you select the recommended solution for your home to discussing financing options to professional installation, partnering with our professionals is a breeze. Reach us at 224-412-8308 to get started now!