With ample maintenance, your air conditioner can run for 15 years or longer. 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 Hudsonville, we know that cost is at the top of your list of questions. The silver lining is that getting a new air conditioner could be more economical than you think it is, thanks to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also receive enhanced energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over time through cheaper cooling bills.

Here’s what to prepare for 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 suggest.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some might run longer, the majority of air conditioners run 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 change could save you 20-40% on cooling costs.
  • You’ve neglected routine maintenance for a long time. Much like a car, your cooling system requires annual air conditioning maintenance. Overlooking this critical service can result in lower efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a shorter life span.
  • Your air conditioner has to have frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is often the result of overlooking maintenance But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to experience a major malfunction. When repairs are more than half the cost of a new air conditioner, we recommend getting a new one.
  • Your house isn’t comfortable. If your residence feels too muggy or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in certain rooms, your air conditioner may be having a hard time keeping up. This is a sign you need to replace it.
  • Your utility bills are expensive. Your air conditioner becomes less efficient as it becomes older. As a consequence, it might need to run more repeatedly or longer to keep your residence at your desired setting. Newer air conditioners have the most up-to-date energy-efficient technology to keep your house comfy and utility costs reasonable.
  • Your air conditioner has R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was purchased before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it uses Freon. Also known as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being produced due to its bad effects on the environment. You can keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to develop a refrigerant leak, fixing that would be extremely expensive. This is due to the fact R-22 is only available in limited, recycled portions.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is under 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s wisest to repair it.
  2. Repairs are infrequent or economical. The best way to stop unexpected repairs is to have annual maintenance 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 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 provides valuable protection in the event of a big 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, 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 different.

There are several factors that influence your total cost, like:

  • 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 needed if your ductwork is dated or inefficient.

We provide free estimates at West Michigan Heating & Air Conditioning Services 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 Size

Air conditioner size is crucial. A system that’s too little will have difficulty keeping your home cool. And one that’s oversized could turn on and off too often, or short cycle. This action can increase your utility costs and wear your air conditioner out faster. This might also create temperature instabilities and make your residence feel less comfortable.

At West Michigan Heating & Air Conditioning Services, our professionals have many years of experience in correctly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your home. The right size depends on how large your residence is, plus a couple 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 impact air conditioner size are:

  • The climate in Hudsonville.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows you have and the style, since big or picture windows may be less efficient.
  • If your residence has more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and thickness.
  • How many people live in your home.

SEER Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is impacted by its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This number measures how proficiently it uses electricity to create cooling. The higher the rating, the more efficient the air conditioner is.

When you’re installing a new air conditioner, it’s crucial to realize:

  • Older air conditioners are ranked 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 extra features to help you save more. These features may include variable-speed cooling. Instead of running at 100% constantly, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds based on your cooling needs. This results in quieter and more energy-efficient comfort. While an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating is typically higher priced, it may be eligible for valuable rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime might help it pay for itself.

Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with West Michigan Heating & Air Conditioning Services Right Away

When you’re preparing for air conditioning replacement, the company who puts it in is just as essential as the model you choose. West Michigan Heating & Air Conditioning Services is one of the most trusted names for air conditioning installation in Hudsonville. From helping you choose the ideal solution for your house to going over financing options to professional installation, working with our professionals is a breeze. Reach us at (616) 319-1436 to start now!