With proper maintenance, your air conditioner can work for 15 years or greater. But even the most meticulously maintained air conditioner will need to be removed eventually.
When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Lodi, we realize that the expense tops your list of questions. The silver lining is that installing a new air conditioner might be more reasonable than you are aware, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also get enhanced energy efficiency, which will likely pay off over the years through less expensive utility bills.
Here’s what to anticipate when you’re replacing your air conditioner.
When to Replace Your Air Conditioner
Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner might be hard. Here’s what we suggest.
Replace
- Your air conditioner is more than 10 years old. While some may work longer, many air conditioners run for around 15 years with regular maintenance. We suggest prepping for air conditioning replacement around the 10-year point. Even if you replace it 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 annual maintenance for a long time. Just like a car, you cooling system needs routine air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this important service can lead to diminished 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 overlooking maintenance. But as your air conditioner gets older, it’s more likely to experience a major breakdown. When repairs are more than half the cost of a new air conditioner, we recommend getting a new one.
- Your residence feels unpleasant. If your residence feels too humid or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in specific areas, your air conditioner may be having difficulty keeping up. This is a clue you should replace it.
- Your energy bills are expensive. Your air conditioner becomes less efficient as it gets older. As a result, it might need to run more often or longer to keep your residence at your desired setting. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your residence cool and electrical bills low.
- Your air conditioner uses R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was replaced before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it has Freon. Also referred to as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being made because of its bad effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to experience a refrigerant leak, fixing that would be very expensive. This is due to the fact R-22 is only available in limited, recycled quantities.
Repair
- Your air conditioner is less than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s wisest to repair it.
- Repairs aren’t common or reasonable. The smartest way to stop unanticipated repairs is to have routine maintenance done. But when repairs are only needed intermittently 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 up to your manufacturer, but it provides valuable protection in the event of a big 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, per national averages compiled by HomeGuide. Air conditioner cost averages often range from $3,350 to $5,912, but your precise cost may be different.
There are a couple of aspects that impact your total cost, such as:
- The air conditioner model you select, because more energy-efficient ones are pricier.
- The size your space needs.
- If you need to replace your ductwork, which can happen if your ductwork is aging or separated.
We offer free estimates at Tokay Heating and Air Conditioning so you can know you’re getting a great deal. And with our complete range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that accommodates just about any budget.
Air Conditioner Size
Air conditioner size is critical. A system that’s too small won’t be able to keep your residence cool. And one that’s too large may turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This act can increase your utility expenses and wear your air conditioner out faster. This might also create temperature instabilities and make your house feel less cool.
At Tokay Heating and Air Conditioning, our techs have many years of experience in accurately sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your house. The size you need depends on how big your home is, in addition to a couple other things. 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 things that can impact air conditioner size are:
- The temperatures in Lodi
- Ductwork quality and age
- How many windows your home has and the style, because big or picture windows can be lower efficiency
- If your residence receives more sun or shade
- Insulation quality and depth
- How many people are in your household
SEER Ratings
Your air conditioner’s efficiency is linked to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This ranking measures how proficiently it consumes electricity to create cooling. The higher the number, the more efficient the air conditioner is.
When you’re getting a new air conditioner, it’s essential to know:
- Old air conditioners are rated around 8-9 SEER.
- Updated air conditioners start at 13 SEER. Ones installed in the southwest and southeast must be a minimum of 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 entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of running at full speed constantly, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds adjusted for your cooling requirements. This creates quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a better SEER rating is typically more expensive, it may be eligible for valuable rebates. And the energy savings over time could help it pay for itself.
Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Tokay Heating and Air Conditioning Today
When you’re doing air conditioning replacement, the company who hooks it up is just as important as the model you choose. Tokay Heating and Air Conditioning is one of the number one names for air conditioning installation in Lodi. From helping you select the recommended solution for your residence to reviewing financing options to professional installation, working with us is a breeze. Reach us at 209-257-3156 to begin now!