With proper maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or greater. 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 Zelienople, we realize that the price tops your list of questions. The bright side is that installing a new air conditioner could be more economical than you are aware, thanks to 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 cheaper cooling bills.

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

When to Consider Replacing Your Air Conditioner

Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner may be difficult. Here’s what we recommend.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is more than 10 years old. While some may run longer, the majority of air conditioners run for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We recommend planning for air conditioning replacement near the 10-year point. Even if you replace it 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 avoided routine maintenance for too long. Similar to a car, your cooling system has to have routine air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this essential service can lead to decreased efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a decreased life span.
  • Your air conditioner has to have frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is usually the result of skipping maintenance But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to experience a catastrophic breakdown. When repairs are higher than half the cost of a new air conditioner, we recommend getting a new one.
  • Your residence isn’t comfortable. If your home feels too sticky or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in certain spaces, your air conditioner may be having a hard time keeping up. This is a hint it’s time to replace it.
  • Your cooling bills are high. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it ages. Consequently, it may need to work more repeatedly or longer to keep your home at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the top energy-efficient technology to keep your residence comfortable and energy expenses reasonable.
  • Your air conditioner runs on R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was installed before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it runs on Freon. Also called R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being produced as a result of its bad effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to have a refrigerant leak, fixing that would be extremely 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 best to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t common or inexpensive. The smartest way to prevent unanticipated repairs is to have annual work done. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are economical, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner has a valid warranty. Most air conditioners come with a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that typically covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is determined by your manufacturer, but it provides valuable protection in the event of a huge failure. If your air conditioner is covered by warranty, we advise fixing it.

Average Air Conditioner Cost

Most 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 {might|could|may] vary.

There are a few details that affect your total cost, like:

  • The air conditioner model you choose, as more energy-efficient ones are pricier.
  • The size your space needs.
  • If you need to install new ductwork, which can be required if your ductwork is aging or damaged.

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

The Size of the AC System

Air conditioner size is essential. A system that’s too little will have difficulty keeping your home cool. And one that’s too large might turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This action can increase your cooling bill and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This might also create temperature inconsistencies and make your residence feel less cool.

At Knoechel Heating, our technicians have many years of experience in accurately sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your house. The right size depends on how large your residence is, along with 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 considerations that can affect air conditioner size are:

  • The climate in Zelienople.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows you have and the style, because expansive or picture windows may be less efficient.
  • If your home gets 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 linked to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This rating measures how efficiently it uses electricity to create cooling. The bigger the number, the more efficient the air conditioner is.

When you’re installing a new air conditioner, it’s important to know:

  • Older 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 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 extra features to help you save more. These features may involve variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at full blast continuously, these air conditioners can reduce blower speeds adjusted for your cooling needs. This results in quieter and more energy-efficient cooling. While an air conditioner with a better SEER rating is usually more expensive, it may be eligible for more rebates. And the energy savings over its life span could help it pay for itself.

Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Knoechel Heating Now

When you’re researching air conditioning replacement, the company who puts it in is just as essential as the model you select. Knoechel Heating is one of the most trusted names for air conditioning installation in Zelienople. From helping you choose the recommended solution for your residence to discussing financing options to professional installation, working with our pros is a breeze. Reach us at 724-425-5852 to get started now!