With ample maintenance, your air conditioner can run for 15 years or greater. But even the best maintained air conditioner will need to be replaced at some point.

When you’re beginning to plan for air conditioning installation in Columbus, we realize that cost is number one on your list of questions. The good news is that buying a new air conditioner may be more economical than you are aware, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also receive better energy efficiency, which will likely pay off over the years through less expensive cooling bills.

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

When to Schedule Air Conditioner Replacement

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

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some could run longer, most air conditioners work for around 15 years with routine maintenance. We suggest prepping for air conditioning replacement around 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 costs.
  • You’ve avoided annual maintenance for a long time. Similar to a car, your cooling system needs routine air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this critical service can lead to decreased efficiency, more frequent repairs and even a decreased life span.
  • Your air conditioner needs frequent or expensive repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the consequence of overlooking maintenance But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to have a catastrophic breakdown. When repairs are greater than half the cost of a new air conditioner, it’s time to get a new one.
  • Your residence isn’t comfortable. If your residence feels too humid or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in specific areas, your air conditioner could be struggling to keep up. This is a clue it’s time to replace it.
  • Your utility bills are costly. Your air conditioner loses efficiency as it becomes older. As a consequence, it could need to work more often or longer to keep your residence at your desired temp. Newer air conditioners have the most up-to-date energy-efficient technology to keep your house comfy and utility expenses down.
  • Your air conditioner has R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was replaced before 2010, there’s a decent chance it uses Freon. Also referred to as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being manufactured due to its damaging effects on the environment. You can keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to have a refrigerant leak, solving that would be extremely expensive. This is due to the fact 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 ideal to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t needed all the time or inexpensive. The best way to avoid unexpected repairs is to have annual work scheduled. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are economical, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner is under warranty. Most air conditioners come with a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that typically covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is determined by your manufacturer, but it gives valuable protection in the event of a big failure. If your air conditioner is protected by warranty, we suggest 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 a few factors that affect your total cost, like:

  • The air conditioner model you choose, as more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
  • The size your space needs.
  • If you need to install new ductwork, which can be needed if your ductwork is dated or separated.

We provide free estimates at Classic Air so you can be confident you’re getting a good deal. And with our complete range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that accommodates just about any budget.

The Size of the AC System

Air conditioner size is crucial. A system that’s too small will have difficulty keeping your home cool. And one that’s too large might turn on and off too often, or short cycle. This act can drive up your cooling costs and wear your air conditioner out faster. This may also cause temperature instabilities and make your residence feel less comfortable.

At Classic Air, our professionals 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, in addition to a couple other considerations. 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 temperatures in Columbus.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your home has and the style, since expansive or picture windows might be less efficient.
  • If your home gets more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and thickness.
  • How many people live in your home.

SEER Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is impacted by its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This rating measures how efficiently it transforms electricity to create cooling. The higher the ranking, the more efficient the air conditioner is.

When you’re getting a new air conditioner, it’s important to be aware:

  • Old air conditioners are ranked 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 come with additional features to help you save more. These features may entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of running at 100% all the time, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds customized for your cooling preferences. This leads to quieter and more energy-efficient cooling. 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 its lifetime could help it pay for itself.

Kickstart Your Air Conditioning Installation with Classic Air Now

When you’re researching air conditioning replacement, the company who hooks it up is just as essential as the model you choose. Classic Air is one of the number one names for air conditioning installation in Columbus. From helping you choose the ideal solution for your house to discussing financing options to professional installation, collaborating with our professionals is a breeze. Contact us at 614-210-3041 to get started now!