With proper maintenance, your air conditioner can work for 15 years or greater. But even the most well- maintained air conditioner will need to be removed at some point.
When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Murrieta, we realize that the expense is at the top of your list of questions. The good news is that getting a new air conditioner could be more affordable than you are aware, due to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also receive improved energy efficiency, which will typically pay off over the years through less expensive electrical 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 can be difficult. Here’s what we recommend.
Replace
- Your air conditioner is more than 10 years old. While some may run longer, the majority of air conditioners run for around 15 years with regular maintenance. We advise getting ready for air conditioning replacement near the 10-year mark. Even if you install 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 bills.
- You’ve neglected routine maintenance for a long time. Similar to a car, you cooling system has to have annual air conditioning maintenance. Skipping this crucial service can lead to reduced efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a decreased life span.
- Your air conditioner needs frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the consequence of not doing service. But as your air conditioner gets older, it’s more likely to experience a major malfunction. When repairs are higher than half the cost of a new air conditioner, you should get a new one.
- Your residence isn’t comfortable. If your residence feels too sticky or you’re having hot and cold spots in certain spaces, your air conditioner may be having difficulty keeping up. This is a clue you need to replace it.
- Your energy bills are high. Your air conditioner loses efficiency as it ages. Consequently, it could need to run more repeatedly or longer to keep your house at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the top energy-efficient technology to keep your home cool and cooling expenses reasonable.
- Your air conditioner runs on R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was purchased before 2010, there’s a good chance it uses Freon. Also called R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being produced because of its damaging effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to develop a refrigerant leak, repairing that would be very expensive. This is since 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 wisest to repair it.
- Repairs are infrequent or reasonable. The wisest way to prevent unexpected repairs is to have regular work done. But when repairs are only needed not very 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 gives valuable protection in the event of a major failure. If your air conditioner is covered by warranty, we recommend fixing it.
Air Conditioner Cost
The majority of 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 exact cost might be lower or higher.
There are several aspects that impact your total cost, like:
- The air conditioner model you choose, because more energy-efficient ones are pricier.
- The size you need.
- If you need to put in new ductwork, which can be needed if your ductwork is dated or damaged.
We offer free estimates at Cool Air Solutions so you can know you’re getting a good deal. And with our wide 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 undersized won’t be able to keep your residence cool. And one that’s too large might turn on and off too often, or short cycle. This action can drive up your cooling costs and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This may also lead to temperature inconsistencies and make your home feel less comfortable.
At Cool Air Solutions, our techs have many years of experience in properly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your home. The size you need depends on how big your house is, along with a few other things. 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 Murrieta
- Ductwork quality and age
- How many windows you have and the style, as large or picture windows might be lower efficiency
- If your residence receives more sun or shade
- Insulation quality and concentration
- 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 number measures how proficiently it transforms electricity to create cooling. The higher the rating, the more efficient the air conditioner is.
When you’re buying a new air conditioner, it’s important to know:
- Dated air conditioners are classified around 8-9 SEER.
- New 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 extra features to help you save more. These features may include variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at full blast continuously, these air conditioners can fine-tune blower speeds adjusted for your cooling preferences. This creates quieter and more energy-efficient cooling. While an air conditioner with a better SEER rating is often pricier, it might be eligible for additional rebates. And the energy savings over time may help it pay for itself.
Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Cool Air Solutions Today
When you’re researching air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as critical as the model you go with. Cool Air Solutions is one of the most trusted names for air conditioning installation in Murrieta. From helping you choose the recommended solution for your home to reviewing financing options to professional installation, partnering with our pros is a breeze. Contact us at 951-299-9853 to get started now!