What Does a Brand-New AC System Cost?

With adequate maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or more. 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 Warrenton, we realize that the expense tops your list of questions. The good news is that installing a new air conditioner might be more economical than you realize, due to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also get improved energy efficiency, which will likely pay off over time through lower electricity bills.

Here’s what to expect when you’re replacing your air conditioner.

When You Should Replace Your Air Conditioner

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

Replace

• Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some may run longer, the majority of air conditioners last for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We suggest planning 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 bills.

• You’ve neglected annual maintenance for a long time. Similar to a car, your cooling system has to have regular air conditioning maintenance. Skipping this essential service can lead to diminished efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a reduced life span.

• Your air conditioner requires frequent or expensive repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is frequently the outcome of not doing service But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to experience a big problem. When repairs are more than half the cost of a new air conditioner, it’s time to get a new one.

• Your home is uncomfortable. If your house feels too sticky or you’re having hot and cold spots in given areas, your air conditioner could be having a hard time keeping up. This is a sign you should replace it.

• Your cooling bills are high. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it ages. Consequently, it may need to operate more repeatedly or longer to keep your house at your desired temp. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your residence comfortable and energy costs reasonable.

• Your air conditioner runs on R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was replaced before 2010, there’s a decent chance it has Freon. Also referred to as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being manufactured because of its detrimental effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to experience a refrigerant leak, solving that would be very expensive. This is since 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 smartest to repair it.

2. Repairs aren’t common or reasonable. The best way to stop unexpected repairs is to have regular work completed. But when repairs are only needed every so often or are reasonable, 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 offers valuable protection in the event of a huge failure. If your air conditioner is protected by warranty, we suggest fixing it.

Typical Air Conditioner Cost

Many 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 exact cost {might|could|may] be different.

There are a couple of aspects that affect your total cost, such as:

• The air conditioner model you install, because more energy-efficient ones are higher priced.

• The size you need.

• If you need to install new ductwork, which can be required if your ductwork is dated or inefficient.

We give free estimates at Schraer Heating & Air Conditioning so you can be confident you’re getting a great 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 crucial. A system that’s undersized won’t be able to keep 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 more quickly. This may also cause temperature instabilities and make your house feel less comfortable.

At Schraer Heating & Air Conditioning, our professionals have many years of experience in properly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your residence. The size you need depends on how big your residence is, plus a few other considerations. Some of the most typical 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 weather in Warrenton.

• Ductwork quality and age.

• How many windows your home has and the style, as expansive or picture windows can be less efficient.

• If your home gets 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 proficiently 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 crucial to realize:

• Dated air conditioners are classified 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 extra features to help you save more. These features may entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of running at full blast continuously, these air conditioners can reduce blower speeds adjusted for your cooling requirements. This leads to quieter and more energy-efficient comfort. While an air conditioner with a greater SEER rating is often pricier, it could be eligible for more rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime could help it pay for itself.

Request a Free Quote for Your Air Conditioning Installation with Schraer Heating & Air Conditioning Today

When you’re preparing for air conditioning replacement, the company who puts it in is just as essential as the model you choose. Schraer Heating & Air Conditioning is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Warrenton. From helping you find the right solution for your home to reviewing financing options to professional installation, partnering with our professionals is a breeze. Reach us at 636-456-5041 to begin today!