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 eventually.
When you’re beginning to plan for air conditioning installation in Haines City, we realize that the expense is at the top of your list of questions. The good news is that buying a new air conditioner could be more affordable than you realize, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also receive enhanced energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over its life span through less expensive utility bills.
Here’s what to prepare for when you’re installing a new air conditioner.
When to Replace Your Air Conditioner
Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner can be difficult. Here’s what our professionals advise.
Replace
- Your air conditioner is past 10 years old. While some might run longer, the majority of air conditioners run for around 15 years with routine maintenance. We suggest 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 expenses.
- You’ve neglected routine maintenance for a long time. Much like a car, you cooling system has to have annual air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this essential service can lead to diminished efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a reduced life span.
- Your air conditioner requires frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the result of overlooking service. But as your air conditioner gets old, it’s more likely to suffer a major breakdown. When repairs are more than half the cost of a new air conditioner, it’s time to get a new one.
- Your residence feels unpleasant. If your house feels too muggy or you’re having hot and cold spots in certain spaces, your air conditioner might be having a hard time keeping up. This is a sign you should replace it.
- Your cooling bills are expensive. Your air conditioner loses efficiency as it ages. As a consequence, it might need to operate more repeatedly or longer to keep your home at your desired setting. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your house comfortable and electrical costs low.
- Your air conditioner has R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was replaced before 2010, there’s a decent chance it uses Freon. Also known as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being made because of its damaging effects on the environment. You can keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to experience a refrigerant leak, repairing that would be very expensive. This is due to the fact R-22 is only available in limited, recycled portions.
Repair
- Your air conditioner is no more than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s wisest to repair it.
- Repairs aren’t common or inexpensive. The best way to stop emergency repairs is to have routine service completed. But when repairs are only needed not very often or are inexpensive, repair your air conditioner.
- Your air conditioner is covered by a warranty. Most air conditioners come with a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that often 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 recommend fixing it.
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 precise cost might be lower or higher.
There are several details that affect your total cost, such as:
- The air conditioner model you select, since more energy-efficient ones are pricier.
- The size your home needs.
- If you need to put in new ductwork, which can be required if your ductwork is dated or separated.
We provide free estimates at Air Commander's Heating & Air Conditioning Co. so you can be confident you’re getting a good deal. And with our complete range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that accommodates just about any budget.
Air Conditioner Size
Air conditioner size is crucial. A system that’s too small won’t be able to keep your house cool. And one that’s too large could turn on and off too often, or short cycle. This act can drive up your cooling expenses and wear your air conditioner out prematurely. This could also cause temperature variability and make your residence feel less cool.
At Air Commander's Heating & Air Conditioning Co., our technicians have many years of experience in accurately sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your home. The size you need depends on how big your residence is, in addition to a couple 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 climate in Haines City
- Ductwork quality and age
- How many windows your house has and the style, as expansive or picture windows may be less efficient
- If your house gets more sun or shade
- Insulation quality and depth
- How many people are in your family
SEER Ratings
Your air conditioner’s efficiency is linked to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This ranking measures how efficiently 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 be aware:
- Dated air conditioners are ranked around 8-9 SEER.
- New 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 include extra features to help you save more. These features may include variable-speed cooling. Instead of running at 100% continuously, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds customized for your cooling preferences. This results in quieter and more energy-efficient cooling. While an air conditioner with a greater SEER rating is often more expensive, it could be eligible for valuable rebates. And the energy savings over its life span could help it pay for itself.
Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Air Commander's Heating & Air Conditioning Co. Today
When you’re researching air conditioning replacement, the company who puts it in is just as critical as the model you choose. Air Commander's Heating & Air Conditioning Co. is one of the number one names for air conditioning installation in Haines City. From helping you select the recommended solution for your house to reviewing financing options to professional installation, working with our professionals is a breeze. Contact us at 863-216-2923 to begin today!