With adequate maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or longer. But even the most well- maintained air conditioner will need to be removed down the road.
When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Temple/Belton, we realize that the price tops your list of questions. The silver lining is that installing a new air conditioner might be more economical than you realize, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also enjoy improved energy efficiency, which will likely pay off over its life span through lower utility bills.
Here’s what to prepare for when you’re installing a new air conditioner.
When to Replace Your Air Conditioner
Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner can be tricky. Here’s what our pros advise.
Replace
- Your air conditioner is past 10 years old. While some may work longer, many air conditioners work for around 15 years with routine maintenance. We suggest getting ready for air conditioning replacement near 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 costs.
- You’ve neglected annual maintenance for many years. Just like a car, you cooling system needs annual air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this essential service can result in decreased efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a decreased life span.
- Your air conditioner needs frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is frequently the result of overlooking tune-ups. But as your air conditioner gets old, it’s more likely to suffer a major malfunction. 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 home feels too sticky or you’re having 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 expensive. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it gets older. Consequently, it may need to run more often or longer to keep your home at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the top energy-efficient technology to keep your home cool and utility bills low.
- Your air conditioner has R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was purchased before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it has Freon. Also known as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being made as a result of its detrimental effects on the environment. You can carry on with using your air conditioner, but if it were to have a refrigerant leak, repairing that would be very expensive. This is due to the fact R-22 is only available in limited, recycled portions.
Repair
- Your air conditioner is under 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s wisest to repair it.
- Repairs are infrequent or inexpensive. The smartest way to avoid unexpected repairs is to have routine service done. But when repairs are only needed every so often or are reasonable, repair your air conditioner.
- Your air conditioner is under warranty. Most air conditioners come with a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that usually covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length depends on your manufacturer, but it provides valuable protection in the event of a huge failure. If your air conditioner is under warranty, we advise fixing it.
Air Conditioner Cost
Most 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 precise cost might be different.
There are several factors that affect your total cost, such as:
- The air conditioner model you install, because more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
- The size your space needs.
- If you need to put in new ductwork, which can be required if your ductwork is aging or inefficient.
We provide free estimates at Bell Air Conditioning Inc so you can know 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 critical. A system that’s too little will struggle 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 energy expenses and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This may also cause temperature inconsistencies and make your home feel less comfortable.
At Bell Air Conditioning Inc, our techs have many years of experience in accurately sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your house. The size you need depends on how large your residence is, plus several other considerations. Some of the most typical 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 Temple/Belton
- Ductwork quality and age
- How many windows your house has and the style, as expansive or picture windows can be less efficient
- If your house has more sun or shade
- Insulation quality and depth
- How many people are in your household
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 bigger the rating, the more efficient the air conditioner is.
When you’re getting a new air conditioner, it’s crucial to know:
- Older air conditioners are classified 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 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 additional features to help you save more. These features may entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of going at 100% all the time, these air conditioners can fine-tune blower speeds customized for your cooling preferences. This results in quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a better SEER rating is usually pricier, it may be eligible for additional rebates. And the energy savings over its life span might help it pay for itself.
Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Bell Air Conditioning Inc Now
When you’re preparing for air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as essential as the model you go with. Bell Air Conditioning Inc is one of the number one names for air conditioning installation in Temple/Belton. From helping you find the right solution for your home to reviewing financing options to professional installation, collaborating with our pros is a breeze. Contact us at 254-307-9572 to begin right away!