With adequate maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or longer. But even the best maintained air conditioner will need to be replaced eventually.

When you’re beginning to plan for air conditioning installation in Greensburg, we know that the expense is at the top of your list of questions. The good news is that buying a new air conditioner may be more affordable than you are aware, thanks to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also enjoy better energy efficiency, which will typically pay off over the years through cheaper electricity bills.

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

When You Should Replace Your Air Conditioner

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

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is more than 10 years old. While some might run longer, many air conditioners run for around 15 years with routine maintenance. We recommend getting ready for air conditioning replacement near the 10-year age. Even if you install a new one when it’s only a decade old, the U.S. Department of Energy says this change could save you 20-40% on cooling bills.
  • You’ve neglected routine maintenance for too long. Just like a car, your cooling system requires annual air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this essential service can cause decreased efficiency, more frequent repairs and even a decreased life span.
  • Your air conditioner has to have frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is frequently the outcome of skipping tune-ups But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to suffer a major problem. When repairs are greater than half the cost of a new air conditioner, we recommend getting a new one.
  • Your home is uncomfortable. If your residence feels too sticky or you’re having hot and cold spots in given areas, your air conditioner might be struggling to keep up. This is a sign it’s time to replace it.
  • Your utility bills are costly. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it gets older. As a result, it could need to run more frequently or longer to keep your residence at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your house cool and energy costs low.
  • Your air conditioner runs on R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was purchased before 2010, there’s a good chance it runs on Freon. Also called R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being produced because of its detrimental effects on the environment. You can keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to have a refrigerant leak, fixing that would be extremely expensive. This is since R-22 is only available in limited, recycled amounts.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is no more than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s wisest to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t common or economical. The wisest way to stop unanticipated repairs is to have annual maintenance completed. But when repairs are only needed not very often or are economical, 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 depends on your manufacturer, but it gives valuable protection in the event of a big failure. If your air conditioner is covered by warranty, we advise fixing it.

Average Air Conditioner Cost

The majority of 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 total cost {might|could|may] be lower or higher.

There are several aspects that impact your total cost, including:

  • The air conditioner model you install, because more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
  • The size you need.
  • If you need to replace your ductwork, which can be required if your ductwork is old or separated.

We offer free estimates at Wallpe Heating & Cooling so you can be sure you’re getting a good deal. And with our wide range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that accommodates just about any budget.

Air Conditioner Sizing

Air conditioner size is crucial. A system that’s too small won’t be able to keep your residence cool. And one that’s too big may turn on and off too many times, or short cycle. This act can drive up your utility expenses and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This might also cause temperature variability and make your residence feel less comfy.

At Wallpe Heating & Cooling, our techs have many years of experience in correctly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your house. The right size depends on how large your house is, along with a few other factors. Some of the most common 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 Greensburg.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your house has and the style, because big or picture windows may be lower efficiency.
  • If your home has more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and depth.
  • How many people are in your family.

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is tied to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This rating measures how proficiently 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 essential to be aware:

  • Older air conditioners are classified around 8-9 SEER.
  • Updated air conditioners start at 13 SEER. Ones installed in the southwest and southeast must be a minimum of 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 come with additional features to help you save more. These features may involve variable-speed cooling. Instead of running at full speed continuously, these air conditioners can fine-tune blower speeds customized for your cooling preferences. This results in quieter and more energy-efficient comfort. While an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating is typically pricier, it may be eligible for extra rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime might help it pay for itself.

Schedule Your Air Conditioning Installation with Wallpe Heating & Cooling Right Away

When you’re planning for air conditioning replacement, the company who hooks it up is just as essential as the model you go with. Wallpe Heating & Cooling is one of the number one names for air conditioning installation in Greensburg. From helping you find the right solution for your home to discussing financing options to professional installation, working with our pros is a breeze. Reach us at 812-663-7252 to begin right away!