With adequate 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 Tannersville, we are aware that the expense is number one on your list of questions. The silver lining is that installing a new air conditioner may be more reasonable than you think it is, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also receive improved energy efficiency, which will likely pay off over time through cheaper 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 can be tricky. Here’s what our professionals recommend.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some could work longer, many air conditioners run for around 15 years with regular maintenance. We suggest planning for air conditioning replacement near the 10-year point. Even if you get a new one when it’s only a decade old, the U.S. Department of Energy says this change could save you 20-40% on cooling bills.
  • You’ve neglected regular maintenance for too long. Much like a car, your cooling system has to have annual air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this crucial service can cause lower efficiency, more frequent repairs and even a shorter life span.
  • Your air conditioner has to have frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the result of overlooking service But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to experience a catastrophic breakdown. When repairs are higher than half the cost of a new air conditioner, it’s time to get a new one.
  • Your house feels unpleasant. If your house feels too humid or you’re dealing with hot and cold spots in specific rooms, your air conditioner may be struggling to keep up. This is a hint it’s time to replace it.
  • Your cooling bills are costly. Your air conditioner becomes less efficient as it gets older. As a result, it could need to work more frequently or longer to keep your residence at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your house comfortable and electrical expenses reasonable.
  • Your air conditioner uses R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was purchased before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it runs on Freon. Also referred to as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being made due to its detrimental effects on the environment. You can keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to experience a refrigerant leak, fixing that would be extremely expensive. This is due to the fact R-22 is only available in limited, recycled amounts.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is no more than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s smartest to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t common or economical. The smartest way to stop unexpected repairs is to have yearly service scheduled. But when repairs are only needed every so often or are economical, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner is under warranty. Most air conditioners come with a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that often covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is up to your manufacturer, but it gives valuable protection in the event of a huge failure. If your air conditioner is under warranty, we recommend fixing it.

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 lower or higher.

There are a couple of factors that influence your total cost, like:

  • The air conditioner model you select, since more energy-efficient ones are higher priced.
  • The size your space needs.
  • If you need to install new ductwork, which can be needed if your ductwork is dated or separated.

We offer free estimates at Speed Air 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 accommodates just about any budget.

Air Conditioner Size

Air conditioner size is critical. A system that’s undersized will have difficulty keeping your home cool. And one that’s too big could turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This behavior can inflate your energy bill and wear your air conditioner out prematurely. This could also create temperature inconsistencies and make your residence feel less cool.

At Speed Air, our technicians have many years of experience in accurately sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your home. The ideal size depends on how big your house is, in addition to several other factors. Some of the most standard 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 influence air conditioner size are:

  • The temperatures in Tannersville.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your home has and the style, as expansive or picture windows may be less efficient.
  • If your home receives more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and depth.
  • 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 ranking measures how proficiently it transforms 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 essential to realize:

  • Dated air conditioners are rated 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 have additional features to help you save more. These features may involve variable-speed cooling. Instead of going at full speed all the time, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds customized for your cooling requirements. This creates quieter and more energy-efficient cooling. While an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating is typically higher priced, it might be eligible for additional rebates. And the energy savings over its life span could help it pay for itself.

Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Speed Air Today

When you’re researching air conditioning replacement, the company who puts it in is just as critical as the model you choose. Speed Air is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Tannersville. From helping you choose the recommended solution for your house to discussing financing options to professional installation, partnering with us is a breeze. Reach us at 800-941-0247 to get started today!