With ample maintenance, your air conditioner can run for 15 years or more. But even the best maintained air conditioner will need to be updated eventually.

When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Lodi, we are aware that the price is at the top of your list of questions. The bright side is that buying a new air conditioner may be more economical than you realize, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also enjoy improved energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over time through less expensive electricity bills.

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

When to Consider Replacing Your Air Conditioner

Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner might be difficult. Here’s what our pros advise.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some might work longer, many air conditioners run for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We suggest planning for air conditioning replacement close to the 10-year age. Even if you replace it when it’s only a decade old, the U.S. Department of Energy says this change could save you 20-40% on cooling bills.
  • You’ve skipped annual maintenance for many years. Much like a car, your cooling system needs annual air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this essential service can result in decreased efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a reduced life span.
  • Your air conditioner has to have frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is frequently the result of overlooking service But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to have a big malfunction. When repairs are greater than half the cost of a new air conditioner, it’s time to get a new one.
  • Your house is uncomfortable. If your house feels too muggy or you’re dealing with hot and cold spots in certain rooms, your air conditioner may be having difficulty keeping up. This is a sign it’s time to replace it.
  • Your energy bills are high. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it ages. Consequently, it might need to run more often or longer to keep your house at your desired setting. Newer air conditioners have the top energy-efficient technology to keep your house comfortable and energy bills down.
  • Your air conditioner uses R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was installed before 2010, there’s a decent chance it has Freon. Also referred to as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being made due to its bad 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 extraordinarily expensive. This is due to the fact R-22 is only available in limited, recycled quantities.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is no more than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s ideal to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t needed all the time or inexpensive. The wisest way to prevent emergency repairs is to have annual work scheduled. But when repairs are only needed every so often or are economical, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner has a valid warranty. Most air conditioners come with a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that usually covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length depends on your manufacturer, but it gives valuable protection in the event of a huge failure. If your air conditioner is protected by warranty, we recommend fixing it.

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

There are a couple of aspects that affect your total cost, such as:

  • The air conditioner model you choose, as more energy-efficient ones are pricier.
  • The size you need.
  • If you need to replace your ductwork, which can happen if your ductwork is old or damaged.

We offer free estimates at Tokay so you can know you’re getting a good deal. And with our full 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 undersized won’t be able to keep your home cool. And one that’s oversized may turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This behavior can inflate your utility costs and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This could also create temperature variability and make your house feel less comfortable.

At Tokay, our professionals have many years of experience in properly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your house. The size you need depends on how big your house is, along with a few 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 impact air conditioner size are:

  • The climate in Lodi.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your house has and the style, as big or picture windows might be more inefficient.
  • If your home 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 linked to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This rating measures how proficiently it transforms electricity to create cooling. The greater the rating, the more efficient the air conditioner is.

When you’re buying a new air conditioner, it’s important to realize:

  • Older 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 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 come with additional features to help you save more. These features may entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of going at full speed all the time, these air conditioners can fine-tune blower speeds based on your cooling requirements. This results in quieter and more energy-efficient cooling. While an air conditioner with a greater SEER rating is usually more expensive, it might be eligible for extra rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime may help it pay for itself.

Schedule Your Air Conditioning Installation with Tokay Today

When you’re researching air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as critical as the model you select. Tokay is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Lodi. From helping you select the right solution for your residence to reviewing financing options to professional installation, collaborating with our pros is a breeze. Contact us at 209-257-3156 to get started now!