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

When you’re beginning to plan for air conditioning installation in Greensburg, we realize that cost tops your list of questions. The good news is that buying a new air conditioner could be more reasonable than you are aware, due to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also get enhanced energy efficiency, which will typically pay off over time through less expensive cooling 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 we advise.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some may last longer, the majority of air conditioners last for around 15 years with regular maintenance. We recommend prepping for air conditioning replacement near the 10-year age. Even if you replace it 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 avoided routine maintenance for many years. Much like a car, your cooling system needs regular air conditioning maintenance. Overlooking this crucial service can result in decreased efficiency, more frequent repairs and even a reduced life span.
  • Your air conditioner has to have frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is frequently the consequence of overlooking service But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to have a catastrophic problem. When repairs are more than half the cost of a new air conditioner, you should get a new one.
  • Your residence is uncomfortable. If your home feels too muggy or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in specific rooms, your air conditioner might be struggling to keep up. This is a hint you need to replace it.
  • Your utility bills are high. Your air conditioner loses efficiency as it becomes older. As a result, it may need to run more repeatedly or longer to keep your residence at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the top energy-efficient technology to keep your residence comfortable and electrical expenses low.
  • Your air conditioner has R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was replaced before 2010, there’s a good chance it uses Freon. Also called R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being produced as a result of its damaging effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to develop a refrigerant leak, fixing that would be extraordinarily expensive. This is because R-22 is only available in limited, recycled quantities.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is under 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s wisest to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t common or inexpensive. The smartest way to stop unanticipated repairs is to have regular work completed. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are inexpensive, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner has a valid warranty. Most air conditioners include a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that typically covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is up to your manufacturer, but it offers valuable protection in the event of a major failure. If your air conditioner is covered by warranty, we advise 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 precise cost {might|could|may] be lower or higher.

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

  • The air conditioner model you choose, as more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
  • The size you need.
  • If you need to install new ductwork, which can happen if your ductwork is old or separated.

We provide free estimates at Wallpe Heating & Cooling so you can be confident you’re getting a fantastic deal. And with our complete 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 residence cool. And one that’s oversized may turn on and off too often, or short cycle. This behavior can inflate your energy expenses and wear your air conditioner out faster. This could also lead to temperature instabilities and make your residence feel less comfortable.

At Wallpe Heating & Cooling, our technicians have many years of experience in correctly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your home. The right size depends on how big your house is, in addition to several other factors. 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 weather in Greensburg.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows you have and the style, since expansive or picture windows can be lower efficiency.
  • If your house has more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and depth.
  • 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 proficiently it consumes electricity to create cooling. The higher the rating, the more efficient the air conditioner is.

When you’re getting a new air conditioner, it’s essential to be aware:

  • 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 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 include variable-speed cooling. Instead of going at 100% continuously, these air conditioners can fine-tune blower speeds adjusted for your cooling requirements. This leads to quieter and more energy-efficient cooling. While an air conditioner with a better SEER rating is usually pricier, it could be eligible for valuable rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime might help it pay for itself.

Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Wallpe Heating & Cooling Now

When you’re preparing for air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as essential as the model you go with. Wallpe Heating & Cooling is one of the most trusted names for air conditioning installation in Greensburg. From helping you select the right solution for your residence to discussing financing options to professional installation, working with us is a breeze. Reach us at 812-663-7252 to get started right away!