With ample maintenance, your air conditioner can run for 15 years or longer. But even the most well-maintained air conditioner will need to be removed eventually.

When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Macon, we realize that cost is number one on your list of questions. The silver lining is that buying a new air conditioner may be more affordable than you think it is, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also receive better energy efficiency, which will likely pay off over time through cheaper electrical bills.

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

When to Consider Replacing Your Air Conditioner

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

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is more than 10 years old. While some could last longer, most air conditioners work for around 15 years with regular maintenance. We suggest getting ready for air conditioning replacement close to 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 expenses.
  • You’ve avoided annual maintenance for too long. Similar to a car, your cooling system has to have regular air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this critical service can lead to diminished efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a decreased life span.
  • Your air conditioner needs frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is often the consequence of overlooking tune-ups But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to have a catastrophic problem. When repairs are more than half the cost of a new air conditioner, it’s time to get a new one.
  • Your house is uncomfortable. If your residence feels too humid or you’re dealing with hot and cold spots in specific spaces, your air conditioner could be having difficulty keeping up. This is a sign it’s time to replace it.
  • Your utility bills are high. Your air conditioner becomes less efficient as it ages. As a consequence, it could need to operate more often or longer to keep your home at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your house cool and utility bills down.
  • Your air conditioner runs on R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was installed before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it has Freon. Also called R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being manufactured as a result of its damaging 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 best to repair it.
  2. Repairs are infrequent or reasonable. The wisest way to stop unexpected repairs is to have yearly work done. But when repairs are only needed not very often or are inexpensive, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner has a valid warranty. Most air conditioners include a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that typically covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is up to your manufacturer, but it gives valuable protection in the event of a huge failure. If your air conditioner is covered by warranty, we suggest 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 exact cost {might|could|may] be different.

There are a couple of details that impact your total cost, such as:

  • The air conditioner model you install, since more energy-efficient ones are higher priced.
  • The size you need.
  • If you need to put in new ductwork, which can be needed if your ductwork is aging or inefficient.

We offer free estimates at Air Temperature Control 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 works with 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 too large might turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This behavior can increase your energy bill and wear your air conditioner out prematurely. This could also cause temperature inconsistencies and make your house feel less comfortable.

At Air Temperature Control, our techs have many years of experience in properly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your residence. The right size depends on how big your home is, along with several other factors. 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 things that can affect air conditioner size are:

  • The climate in Macon.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your home has and the style, as expansive or picture windows might be lower efficiency.
  • If your house gets more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and thickness.
  • How many people live in your home.

SEER Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is tied to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This rating measures how well it transforms electricity to create cooling. The higher the number, 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 classified around 8-9 SEER.
  • Modern 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 requirements. 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 more features to help you save more. These features may include variable-speed cooling. Instead of going at 100% continuously, these air conditioners can reduce blower speeds based on your cooling needs. This results in quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a better SEER rating is usually pricier, it might be eligible for additional rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime may help it pay for itself.

Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Air Temperature Control Now

When you’re planning for air conditioning replacement, the company who puts it in is just as essential as the model you go with. Air Temperature Control is one of the most trusted names for air conditioning installation in Macon. From helping you select the ideal solution for your house to discussing financing options to professional installation, partnering with our pros is a breeze. Contact us at 478-202-3170 to begin now!