With ample maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or greater. But even the best maintained air conditioner will need to be updated at some point.
When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Hudsonville, we are aware that cost is number one on your list of questions. The silver lining is that buying a new air conditioner could be more affordable than you are aware, thanks to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also enjoy better energy efficiency, which will likely pay off over its life span through less expensive cooling bills.
Here’s what to expect when you’re getting a new air conditioner.
The Best Time to Schedule Air Conditioner Replacement
Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner may be difficult. Here’s what we advise.
Replace
- Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some could last longer, the majority of air conditioners run for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We advise planning for air conditioning replacement around the 10-year mark. Even if you get a new one when it’s only a decade old, the U.S. Department of Energy says this swap could save you 20-40% on cooling costs.
- You’ve avoided regular maintenance for many years. Similar to a car, your cooling system needs regular air conditioning maintenance. Skipping this essential service can cause diminished efficiency, more frequent repairs and even a shorter life span.
- Your air conditioner requires frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is frequently the result of not doing tune-ups But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to experience a big breakdown. When repairs are more than half the cost of a new air conditioner, we recommend getting a new one.
- Your home is uncomfortable. If your house feels too muggy or you’re dealing with hot and cold spots in specific areas, your air conditioner could be struggling to keep up. This is a hint it’s time to replace it.
- Your utility bills are costly. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it gets older. As a consequence, it might need to work more frequently or longer to keep your house at your desired setting. Newer air conditioners have the most up-to-date energy-efficient technology to keep your residence comfortable and utility expenses low.
- Your air conditioner has R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was installed before 2010, there’s a good chance it has Freon. Also known as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being made as a result of its bad effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to have a refrigerant leak, fixing that would be very expensive. This is due to the fact R-22 is only available in limited, recycled amounts.
Repair
- Your air conditioner is less than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s wisest to repair it.
- Repairs are infrequent or inexpensive. The best way to avoid unanticipated repairs is to have yearly service completed. But when repairs are only needed every so often or are inexpensive, repair your air conditioner.
- Your air conditioner is covered by a warranty. Most air conditioners come with a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that typically covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length depends on your manufacturer, but it offers valuable protection in the event of a big failure. If your air conditioner is protected by warranty, we advise fixing it.
Typical 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] vary.
There are several aspects that impact your total cost, like:
- The air conditioner model you choose, as more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
- The size your home needs.
- If you need to put in new ductwork, which can happen if your ductwork is aging or inefficient.
We provide free estimates at West Michigan Heating & Air Conditioning Services 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 works with just about any budget.
Air Conditioner Sizing
Air conditioner size is essential. A system that’s too small will have difficulty keeping your home cool. And one that’s oversized may turn on and off too many times, or short cycle. This act can inflate your cooling costs and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This might also cause temperature inconsistencies and make your home feel less comfy.
At West Michigan Heating & Air Conditioning Services, our professionals have many years of experience in accurately sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your house. The size you need depends on how spacious your residence is, plus a few 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 impact air conditioner size are:
- The temperatures in Hudsonville.
- Ductwork quality and age.
- How many windows your house has and the style, since expansive or picture windows might be more inefficient.
- If your residence gets more sun or shade.
- Insulation quality and depth.
- How many people live in your home.
Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratings
Your air conditioner’s efficiency is impacted by its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This number measures how efficiently it transforms 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 crucial to know:
- 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 at least 14 SEER due to U.S. Department of Energy requirements. 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 speed continuously, these air conditioners can fine-tune blower speeds customized for your cooling requirements. This creates quieter and more energy-efficient cooling. While an air conditioner with a better SEER rating is typically higher priced, it may be eligible for extra rebates. And the energy savings over its life span may help it pay for itself.
Request a Free Quote for Your Air Conditioning Installation with West Michigan Heating & Air Conditioning Services Now
When you’re preparing for air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it 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 select the recommended solution for your residence to discussing financing options to professional installation, collaborating with us is a breeze. Reach us at (616) 319-1436 to start now!