With ample maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or longer. But even the most meticulously maintained air conditioner will need to be updated eventually.
When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Hudsonville, we know that cost tops your list of questions. The bright side is that installing a new air conditioner may be more affordable than you think it is, due to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also enjoy improved energy efficiency, which will likely pay off over time through less expensive cooling bills.
Here’s what to anticipate 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 difficult. Here’s what we recommend.
Replace
- Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some could run longer, many air conditioners run for around 15 years with regular maintenance. We advise planning for air conditioning replacement close to the 10-year point. 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 expenses.
- You’ve avoided annual maintenance for many years. Much like a car, you cooling system requires routine air conditioning maintenance. Overlooking this essential service can cause diminished efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a decreased life span.
- Your air conditioner requires frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is usually the result of overlooking service. But as your air conditioner gets old, it’s more likely to suffer a major breakdown. When repairs are greater than half the cost of a new air conditioner, you should get a new one.
- Your house is uncomfortable. If your house feels too humid or you’re having hot and cold spots in given rooms, your air conditioner might be struggling to keep up. This is a clue you need to replace it.
- Your energy bills are costly. Your air conditioner loses efficiency as it becomes older. As a consequence, it may need to operate more frequently or longer to keep your residence at your desired temp. Newer air conditioners have the most up-to-date energy-efficient technology to keep your residence cool and utility expenses down.
- Your air conditioner runs on R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was replaced before 2010, there’s a good chance it has 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 keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to experience a refrigerant leak, fixing that would be extremely expensive. This is because R-22 is only available in limited, recycled quantities.
Repair
- Your air conditioner is under 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s smartest to repair it.
- Repairs aren’t common or economical. The wisest way to avoid unanticipated repairs is to have annual maintenance done. But when repairs are only needed every so often or are inexpensive, repair your air conditioner.
- Your air conditioner has a valid warranty. Most air conditioners are accompanied by a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that typically covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is determined by your manufacturer, but it provides valuable protection in the event of a huge failure. If your air conditioner is covered by warranty, we suggest fixing it.
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 precise cost may vary.
There are a few details that affect your total cost, including:
- The air conditioner model you select, since more energy-efficient ones are higher priced.
- The size your home needs.
- If you need to replace your ductwork, which can happen if your ductwork is old or damaged.
We offer free estimates at West Michigan Heating & Air Conditioning Services so you can know you’re getting a fantastic deal. And with our complete range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that works with just about any budget.
Air Conditioner Size
Air conditioner size is essential. A system that’s too little will have difficulty keeping your residence cool. And one that’s too large may turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This behavior can increase your utility bill and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This might also cause temperature instabilities and make your home feel less cool.
At West Michigan Heating & Air Conditioning Services, our pros have many years of experience in accurately sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your home. The right size depends on how spacious your house is, along with a few 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 weather in Hudsonville
- Ductwork quality and age
- How many windows your home has and the style, because big or picture windows may be more inefficient
- 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 tied to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This ranking measures how efficiently 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:
- Dated air conditioners are rated 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 extra features to help you save more. These features may involve variable-speed cooling. Instead of going at full blast constantly, these air conditioners can reduce blower speeds customized for your cooling preferences. This creates quieter and more energy-efficient cooling. 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 could help it pay for itself.
Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with West Michigan Heating & Air Conditioning Services Now
When you’re planning for air conditioning replacement, the company who puts it in is just as critical as the model you select. West Michigan Heating & Air Conditioning Services is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Hudsonville. From helping you find the recommended solution for your house to discussing financing options to professional installation, collaborating with our professionals is a breeze. Contact us at (616) 319-1436 to begin today!