With adequate maintenance, your air conditioner can run for 15 years or more. But even the most well-maintained air conditioner will need to be replaced down the road.

When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Macon, we are aware that the expense is number one on your list of questions. The silver lining is that getting a new air conditioner might be more reasonable than you realize, thanks to 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 lower electricity bills.

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

When to Replace Your Air Conditioner

Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner can be hard. Here’s what our professionals recommend.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is past 10 years old. While some may last longer, most air conditioners work for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We suggest prepping for air conditioning replacement around the 10-year point. Even if you install 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 skipped routine maintenance for too long. Much like a car, your cooling system needs regular air conditioning maintenance. Skipping this crucial service can result in decreased efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a decreased life span.
  • Your air conditioner has to have frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is frequently the result of not doing maintenance But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to suffer a big malfunction. When repairs are greater than half the cost of a new air conditioner, it’s time to get a new one.
  • Your home feels unpleasant. If your house feels too muggy or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in certain rooms, your air conditioner might be having difficulty keeping up. This is a hint you need to replace it.
  • Your cooling bills are high. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it gets older. As a result, it might need to work more repeatedly or longer to keep your home at your desired temp. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your residence cool and energy costs low.
  • Your air conditioner has R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was purchased before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it uses Freon. Also referred to as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being manufactured due to its damaging effects on the environment. You can keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to experience a refrigerant leak, solving that would be extraordinarily expensive. This is due to the fact R-22 is only available in limited, recycled portions.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is under 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s wisest to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t needed all the time or economical. The best way to prevent unanticipated repairs is to have yearly work completed. But when repairs are only needed not very often or are inexpensive, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner is covered by a warranty. Most air conditioners include a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that usually covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length depends on 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, per national averages compiled by HomeGuide. Air conditioner cost averages often range from $3,350 to $5,912, but your total cost {might|could|may] be lower or higher.

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

  • The air conditioner model you choose, because more energy-efficient ones are pricier.
  • The size your space needs.
  • If you need to replace your ductwork, which can be needed if your ductwork is dated or separated.

We provide free estimates at Air Temperature Control so you can be sure you’re getting a great deal. And with our full range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that accommodates just about any budget.

Air Conditioner Size

Air conditioner size is essential. A system that’s too small won’t be able to keep your house cool. And one that’s too big may turn on and off too many times, or short cycle. This act can drive up your cooling expenses and wear your air conditioner out faster. This might also create temperature inconsistencies and make your house feel less comfy.

At Air Temperature Control, our techs have many years of experience in properly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your home. The size you need depends on how big your home is, along with 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 influence air conditioner size are:

  • The climate in Macon.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your house has and the style, because expansive or picture windows might be more inefficient.
  • If your home has more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and thickness.
  • How many people are in your family.

SEER Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is impacted by its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This rating measures how well it transforms electricity to create cooling. The bigger the number, the more efficient the air conditioner is.

When you’re buying a new air conditioner, it’s crucial to realize:

  • Dated air conditioners are rated 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 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 operating at full speed continuously, these air conditioners can reduce blower speeds adjusted for your cooling requirements. This creates quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating is usually pricier, it may be eligible for valuable 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 preparing for air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as critical as the model you choose. Air Temperature Control is one of the number one names for air conditioning installation in Macon. From helping you select the ideal solution for your home to going over financing options to professional installation, partnering with our professionals is a breeze. Contact us at 478-202-3170 to get started today!