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 number one on your list of questions. The silver lining is that installing a new air conditioner might be more affordable than you realize, due to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also get better energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over time through lower electrical bills.

Here’s what to prepare for when you’re getting a new air conditioner.

When to Consider Replacing Your Air Conditioner

Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner may be tricky. Here’s what our pros recommend.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some might work longer, many air conditioners work for around 15 years with routine maintenance. We recommend prepping for air conditioning replacement close to the 10-year age. 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 expenses.
  • You’ve skipped regular maintenance for many years. Much like a car, your cooling system requires regular air conditioning maintenance. Overlooking this critical service can cause decreased efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a reduced life span.
  • Your air conditioner needs frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the outcome of skipping tune-ups But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to suffer a major malfunction. When repairs are greater than half the cost of a new air conditioner, it’s time to get a new one.
  • Your home is uncomfortable. If your house feels too humid or you’re dealing with hot and cold spots in specific areas, your air conditioner could be struggling to keep up. This is a sign you should replace it.
  • Your utility bills are high. Your air conditioner loses efficiency as it gets older. Consequently, it might need to operate more often or longer to keep your house at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the top energy-efficient technology to keep your house comfy and utility expenses reasonable.
  • Your air conditioner runs on R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was replaced before 2010, there’s a decent chance it has Freon. Also known as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being manufactured because of its damaging effects on the environment. You can keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to experience a refrigerant leak, solving that would be very expensive. This is since R-22 is only available in limited, recycled amounts.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is under 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s best to repair it.
  2. Repairs are infrequent or reasonable. The wisest way to stop unexpected repairs is to have regular maintenance done. But when repairs are only needed not very often or are reasonable, repair your air conditioner.
  3. 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 is up to your manufacturer, but it gives valuable protection in the event of a major failure. If your air conditioner is protected by warranty, we advise fixing it.

Average Air Conditioner Cost

Most 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 exact cost {might|could|may] vary.

There are a few factors that affect your total cost, including:

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

We give 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 fits just about any budget.

Air Conditioner Size

Air conditioner size is essential. A system that’s too little will have difficulty keeping your house cool. And one that’s oversized may turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This action can increase your energy bill and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This might also lead to temperature inconsistencies and make your house feel less comfy.

At West Michigan Heating & Air Conditioning Services, our technicians have many years of experience in accurately sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your home. The right size depends on how big your home is, along with a couple other things. 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 things that can influence air conditioner size are:

  • The weather in Hudsonville.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your house has and the style, as big or picture windows might be more inefficient.
  • If your residence receives more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and concentration.
  • How many people are in your family.

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is linked to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This ranking measures how well it transforms 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 important to be aware:

  • Old air conditioners are classified around 8-9 SEER.
  • New 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 include extra features to help you save more. These features may entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of running at full blast constantly, these air conditioners can fine-tune blower speeds based on your cooling needs. This results in quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating is usually more expensive, it could be eligible for more rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime could help it pay for itself.

Schedule 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 essential as the model you go with. West Michigan Heating & Air Conditioning Services is one of the most trusted names for air conditioning installation in Hudsonville. From helping you select the right solution for your home to discussing financing options to professional installation, working with us is a breeze. Call us at (616) 319-1436 to begin right away!