With ample maintenance, your air conditioner can run for 15 years or longer. But even the best maintained air conditioner will need to be replaced down the road.

When you’re starting to plan for air conditioning installation in Marshalltown, we realize that the expense is at the top of your list of questions. The bright side is that installing a new air conditioner could be more reasonable than you are aware, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also receive better energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over the years 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 might be difficult. Here’s what our pros recommend.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is more than 10 years old. While some might work longer, many air conditioners work for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We suggest prepping for air conditioning replacement close to the 10-year mark. 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 costs.
  • You’ve neglected annual maintenance for many years. Just like a car, your cooling system requires regular air conditioning maintenance. Skipping this essential service can cause decreased efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a decreased life span.
  • Your air conditioner has to have frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the outcome of skipping maintenance But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to experience a major problem. When repairs are more than half the cost of a new air conditioner, we recommend getting a new one.
  • Your residence is uncomfortable. If your home feels too muggy or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in given areas, your air conditioner could be struggling to keep up. This is a clue it’s time to replace it.
  • Your cooling bills are high. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it gets older. Consequently, it could need to run more repeatedly or longer to keep your house at your desired setting. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your home comfortable and cooling expenses reasonable.
  • Your air conditioner uses R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was purchased before 2010, there’s a decent chance it runs on Freon. Also known as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being produced as a result of its bad effects on the environment. You can keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to develop a refrigerant leak, repairing that would be extraordinarily expensive. This is because R-22 is only available in limited, recycled amounts.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is less than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s ideal to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t common or inexpensive. The smartest way to stop unanticipated repairs is to have yearly service scheduled. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are inexpensive, repair your air conditioner.
  3. 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 is determined by your manufacturer, but it provides valuable protection in the event of a major failure. If your air conditioner is covered by warranty, we suggest fixing it.

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 several aspects that affect your total cost, such as:

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

We give free estimates at B & G HVAC so you can be sure you’re getting a great 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 undersized will have difficulty keeping your house cool. And one that’s oversized may turn on and off too many times, or short cycle. This behavior can drive up your cooling bill and wear your air conditioner out faster. This may also lead to temperature instabilities and make your home feel less comfy.

At B & G HVAC, our professionals have many years of experience in correctly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your house. The right size depends on how big your house is, along with several other factors. Some of the most common 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 affect air conditioner size are:

  • The climate in Marshalltown.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your home has and the style, since large or picture windows can be more inefficient.
  • 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 impacted by its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This rating measures how proficiently it uses electricity to create cooling. The bigger the number, the more efficient the air conditioner is.

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

  • Old air conditioners are ranked around 8-9 SEER.
  • Modern 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 involve variable-speed cooling. Instead of going at full blast all the time, these air conditioners can reduce blower speeds customized for your cooling requirements. This results in quieter and more energy-efficient cooling. While an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating is usually higher priced, it may be eligible for extra rebates. And the energy savings over its life span could help it pay for itself.

Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with B & G HVAC Right Away

When you’re preparing for air conditioning replacement, the company who hooks it up is just as essential as the model you choose. B & G HVAC is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Marshalltown. From helping you find the ideal solution for your residence to reviewing financing options to professional installation, partnering with our professionals is a breeze. Call us at 641-316-3360 to start now!