With proper maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or greater. But even the most well-maintained air conditioner will need to be replaced down the road.

When you’re starting to plan for air conditioning installation in Columbia, we realize that the price tops your list of questions. The good news is that installing a new air conditioner might be more economical than you are aware, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also get enhanced energy efficiency, which will likely pay off over its life span through lower electricity bills.

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

The Best Time to Schedule Air Conditioner Replacement

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

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some may run longer, many air conditioners work for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We recommend getting ready for air conditioning replacement near 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 costs.
  • You’ve skipped routine maintenance for a long time. Much like a car, your cooling system requires annual air conditioning maintenance. Overlooking this crucial service can cause lower efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a shorter life span.
  • Your air conditioner has to have frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is often the outcome of overlooking service But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to experience a catastrophic malfunction. When repairs are greater than half the cost of a new air conditioner, it’s time to get a new one.
  • Your home isn’t comfortable. If your home feels too muggy or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in certain rooms, your air conditioner may be struggling to keep up. This is a hint you need to replace it.
  • Your cooling bills are expensive. Your air conditioner becomes less efficient as it becomes older. Consequently, it might need to work more repeatedly or longer to keep your home at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the most up-to-date energy-efficient technology to keep your house comfortable and cooling bills down.
  • Your air conditioner has 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 produced due to its detrimental effects on the environment. You can keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to develop a refrigerant leak, solving that would be very expensive. This is because 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 smartest to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t common or reasonable. The best way to avoid unanticipated repairs is to have yearly work completed. But when repairs are only needed not very often or are economical, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner is covered by a 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 provides valuable protection in the event of a big failure. If your air conditioner is protected by warranty, we suggest fixing it.

General Estimate of Air Conditioner Cost

Many 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 total cost {might|could|may] vary.

There are a few factors that impact your total cost, such as:

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

We provide free estimates at Watts Electric & AC so you can be sure you’re getting a fantastic 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 essential. A system that’s too small won’t be able to keep your residence cool. And one that’s oversized could turn on and off too many times, or short cycle. This behavior can drive up your utility expenses and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This may also create temperature variability and make your home feel less cool.

At Watts Electric & AC, our techs have many years of experience in accurately sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your residence. The size you need depends on how big your home 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 factors that can impact air conditioner size are:

  • The weather in Columbia.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your house has and the style, as big or picture windows may be lower efficiency.
  • If your residence receives more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and depth.
  • How many people are in your family.

SEER Ratings

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

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

  • Old air conditioners are ranked around 8-9 SEER.
  • Updated air conditioners start at 13 SEER. Ones installed in the southwest and southeast must be no less than 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 more features to help you save more. These features may involve variable-speed cooling. Instead of running at full blast constantly, these air conditioners can fine-tune blower speeds based on your cooling needs. This results in quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating is usually pricier, it could be eligible for valuable rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime may help it pay for itself.

Request a Free Quote for Your Air Conditioning Installation with Watts Electric & AC Now

When you’re preparing for air conditioning replacement, the company who hooks it up is just as essential as the model you choose. Watts Electric & AC is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Columbia. From helping you choose the ideal solution for your residence to discussing financing options to professional installation, partnering with our pros is a breeze. Reach us at 601-736-7362 to begin now!