With proper maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or more. But even the most well- maintained air conditioner will need to be replaced down the road.
When you’re beginning to plan for air conditioning installation in Delray Beach, we are aware that the expense is at the top of your list of questions. The silver lining is that buying a new air conditioner might be more affordable than you realize, due to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also get improved energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over the years through cheaper 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 can be hard. Here’s what we recommend.
Replace
- Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some could last longer, most air conditioners work for around 15 years with regular maintenance. We recommend planning for air conditioning replacement near 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 regular maintenance for a long time. Much like a car, you cooling system requires regular air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this important service can lead to diminished efficiency, more frequent repairs and even a decreased life span.
- Your air conditioner needs frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the consequence of skipping service. But as your air conditioner gets old, it’s more likely to experience a catastrophic breakdown. When repairs are higher than half the cost of a new air conditioner, you should get a new one.
- Your home feels unpleasant. If your residence feels too sticky or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in given rooms, your air conditioner could be having difficulty keeping up. This is a clue it’s time to replace it.
- Your utility bills are expensive. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it becomes older. As a consequence, it may need to work more frequently or longer to keep your residence at your desired temp. Newer air conditioners have the top energy-efficient technology to keep your house comfy and electrical costs low.
- Your air conditioner runs on R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was replaced before 2010, there’s a good chance it runs on Freon. Also referred to 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, fixing that would be very expensive. This is because 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 smartest to repair it.
- Repairs aren’t common or inexpensive. The best way to prevent unanticipated repairs is to have annual maintenance completed. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are economical, repair your air conditioner.
- Your air conditioner has a valid warranty. Most air conditioners come with a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that usually covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is up to your manufacturer, but it offers valuable protection in the event of a big failure. If your air conditioner is covered by warranty, we recommend fixing it.
Air Conditioner Cost
The majority of 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 be different.
There are several factors that impact your total cost, including:
- The air conditioner model you choose, as more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
- The size your home needs.
- If you need to replace your ductwork, which can be required if your ductwork is aging or damaged.
We provide free estimates at Kilbourne 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.
Air Conditioner Size
Air conditioner size is crucial. A system that’s undersized will have difficulty keeping your home cool. And one that’s too big might turn on and off too many times, or short cycle. This action can drive up your energy costs and wear your air conditioner out prematurely. This might also cause temperature variability and make your house feel less comfy.
At Kilbourne Heating & AC, our pros have many years of experience in accurately sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your home. The right size depends on how large your residence is, along with a few other factors. 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 influence air conditioner size are:
- The temperatures in Delray Beach
- Ductwork quality and age
- How many windows your home has and the style, because expansive or picture windows can be lower efficiency
- If your residence receives 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 number measures how efficiently 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 important to be aware:
- Dated air conditioners are ranked around 8-9 SEER.
- Updated 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 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 include variable-speed cooling. Instead of going at full blast all the time, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds adjusted for your cooling preferences. This results in quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a greater SEER rating is typically more expensive, it might be eligible for more rebates. And the energy savings over its life span might help it pay for itself.
Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Kilbourne Heating & AC Right Away
When you’re researching air conditioning replacement, the company who hooks it up is just as critical as the model you select. Kilbourne Heating & AC is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Delray Beach. From helping you select the ideal solution for your home to going over financing options to professional installation, partnering with us is a breeze. Call us at 561-287-7071 to get started right away!