With ample maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or longer. But even the best maintained air conditioner will need to be replaced eventually.

When you’re beginning to plan for air conditioning installation in Smyrna, 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 could be more economical than you realize, thanks to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also get enhanced energy efficiency, which will likely pay off over time through cheaper utility bills.

Here’s what to expect 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 hard. Here’s what we advise.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is past 10 years old. While some could last longer, the majority of air conditioners run for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We recommend planning for air conditioning replacement close to the 10-year point. Even if you get 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 expenses.
  • You’ve neglected routine maintenance for a long time. Just like a car, your cooling system needs regular air conditioning maintenance. Skipping this crucial service can result in diminished efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a reduced life span.
  • Your air conditioner has to have frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is usually the result of not doing tune-ups But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to suffer a major malfunction. When repairs are more than half the cost of a new air conditioner, you should get a new one.
  • Your residence feels unpleasant. If your house feels too sticky or you’re having hot and cold spots in specific spaces, your air conditioner could be struggling to keep up. This is a sign you need to replace it.
  • Your utility bills are high. Your air conditioner becomes less efficient as it becomes older. As a result, it may need to work more frequently or longer to keep your residence at your desired setting. Newer air conditioners have the most up-to-date energy-efficient technology to keep your home cool and utility bills reasonable.
  • Your air conditioner has R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was installed before 2010, there’s a decent chance it runs on Freon. Also called R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being made due to its detrimental effects on the environment. You can keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to experience a refrigerant leak, fixing that would be extremely expensive. This is since R-22 is only available in limited, recycled portions.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is no more than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s best to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t needed all the time or inexpensive. The smartest way to prevent unexpected repairs is to have regular service done. But when repairs are only needed every so often or are economical, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner is under warranty. Most air conditioners are accompanied by a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that often covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is determined by your manufacturer, but it offers valuable protection in the event of a huge failure. If your air conditioner is covered by warranty, we advise fixing it.

Typical 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 precise cost {might|could|may] vary.

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

  • The air conditioner model you install, as more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
  • The size you need.
  • If you need to put in new ductwork, which can be needed if your ductwork is old or inefficient.

We provide free estimates at Fletcher Plumbing, Heating & AC so you can know you’re getting a good deal. And with our complete range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that works with just about any budget.

The Size of the AC System

Air conditioner size is essential. A system that’s too little won’t be able to keep your house cool. And one that’s too large could turn on and off too often, or short cycle. This act can inflate your energy costs and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This could also create temperature variability and make your residence feel less comfy.

At Fletcher Plumbing, Heating & AC, our techs have many years of experience in correctly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your house. The size you need depends on how big your home is, in addition to several other factors. 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 factors that can influence air conditioner size are:

  • The weather in Smyrna.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows you have and the style, because big or picture windows might be more inefficient.
  • If your house has more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and thickness.
  • How many people are in your household.

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratings

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

When you’re installing a new air conditioner, it’s crucial to realize:

  • Dated air conditioners are rated around 8-9 SEER.
  • New 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 blast all the time, these air conditioners can fine-tune blower speeds customized for your cooling needs. This leads to quieter and more energy-efficient comfort. While an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating is often more expensive, it might be eligible for valuable rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime may help it pay for itself.

Kickstart Your Air Conditioning Installation with Fletcher Plumbing, Heating & AC Now

When you’re planning for air conditioning replacement, the company who puts it in is just as critical as the model you choose. Fletcher Plumbing, Heating & AC is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Smyrna. From helping you find the ideal solution for your home to reviewing financing options to professional installation, partnering with our professionals is a breeze. Call us at 302-653-0503 to get started now!