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 getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Franklin Lakes, we realize that cost is number one on your list of questions. The silver lining is that getting a new air conditioner could be more affordable than you are aware, thanks to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also enjoy enhanced energy efficiency, which will typically pay off over its life span through less expensive electrical 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 may be tricky. Here’s what we recommend.
Replace
- Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some might work longer, most air conditioners last for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We suggest getting ready 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 tweak could save you 20-40% on cooling expenses.
- You’ve neglected regular maintenance for too long. Just like a car, you cooling system has to have routine air conditioning maintenance. Overlooking this crucial service can result in reduced efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a decreased life span.
- Your air conditioner requires frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is frequently the consequence of overlooking service. But as your air conditioner gets older, it’s more likely to suffer a big malfunction. When repairs are higher than half the cost of a new air conditioner, it’s time to get a new one.
- Your residence feels unpleasant. If your house feels too muggy or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in certain areas, your air conditioner might be having difficulty keeping up. This is a clue you should replace it.
- Your cooling bills are costly. Your air conditioner becomes less efficient as it becomes older. As a consequence, it might need to work more frequently or longer to keep your home at your desired temp. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your home comfy and energy costs down.
- Your air conditioner uses R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was purchased before 2010, there’s a decent chance it has Freon. Also referred to as 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 experience a refrigerant leak, repairing that would be extraordinarly expensive. This is since R-22 is only available in limited, recycled portions.
Repair
- Your air conditioner is under 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s wisest to repair it.
- Repairs aren’t common or inexpensive. The smartest way to prevent unanticipated repairs is to have regular service completed. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are economical, repair your air conditioner.
- Your air conditioner is under warranty. Most air conditioners include 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 advise fixing it.
Air Conditioner Cost
The majority of homeowners spend around $4,631 on a new air conditioner, based on national averages compiled by HomeGuide. Air conditioner cost averages often range from $3,350 to $5,912, but your precise cost could be lower or higher.
There are a few details that influence your total cost, including:
- The air conditioner model you install, as more energy-efficient ones are higher priced.
- The size your space needs.
- If you need to install new ductwork, which can be needed if your ductwork is aging or separated.
We provide free estimates at Total Comfort 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 critical. A system that’s too little won’t be able to keep your home cool. And one that’s too large might turn on and off too often, or short cycle. This act can increase your energy expenses and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This could also cause temperature inconsistencies and make your residence feel less comfy.
At Total Comfort, our techs have many years of experience in correctly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your residence. The ideal size depends on how big your house is, plus 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 affect air conditioner size are:
- The temperatures in Franklin Lakes
- Ductwork quality and age
- How many windows you have and the style, because big or picture windows might be more inefficient
- If your home receives more sun or shade
- Insulation quality and concentration
- How many people live in your home
SEER Ratings
Your air conditioner’s efficiency is linked to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This rating measures how efficiently it transforms electricity to create cooling. The greater the ranking, the more efficient the air conditioner is.
When you’re getting a new air conditioner, it’s important to know:
- Old air conditioners are classified 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 regulations. 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 more features to help you save more. These features may entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at full speed continuously, these air conditioners can fine-tune blower speeds customized for your cooling preferences. This leads to quieter and more energy-efficient comfort. While an air conditioner with a better SEER rating is often pricier, it may be eligible for additional rebates. And the energy savings over its life span might help it pay for itself.
Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Total Comfort Now
When you’re planning for air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as critical as the model you go with. Total Comfort is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Franklin Lakes. From helping you find the ideal solution for your house to discussing financing options to professional installation, collaborating with our professionals is a breeze. Contact us at 201-268-5663 to begin right away!