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

When you’re beginning to plan for air conditioning installation in Wyandotte, we are aware that the price is number one on your list of questions. The silver lining is that getting a new air conditioner could be more affordable than you think it is, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also receive improved energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over its life span through lower cooling 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 tricky. Here’s what our professionals suggest.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is past 10 years old. While some might work longer, many air conditioners work for around 15 years with regular maintenance. We advise getting ready for air conditioning replacement close to 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 skipped routine maintenance for a long time. Much like a car, your cooling system has to have annual air conditioning maintenance. Skipping this critical service can lead to decreased efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a decreased life span.
  • Your air conditioner requires frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is usually the consequence of overlooking service But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to experience a major malfunction. When repairs are higher than half the cost of a new air conditioner, it’s time to get a new one.
  • Your house feels unpleasant. If your home feels too sticky or you’re having hot and cold spots in certain areas, your air conditioner might be having difficulty keeping up. This is a sign you need to replace it.
  • Your utility bills are expensive. Your air conditioner becomes less efficient as it becomes older. As a consequence, it could need to run more frequently or longer to keep your house at your desired temp. Newer air conditioners have the most up-to-date energy-efficient technology to keep your home cool and utility bills low.
  • Your air conditioner has R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was purchased before 2010, there’s a good chance it has Freon. Also known as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being manufactured because of its bad effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to have a refrigerant leak, solving that would be extremely expensive. This is since R-22 is only available in limited, recycled quantities.

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 needed all the time or economical. The smartest way to prevent unexpected repairs is to have regular maintenance done. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are reasonable, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner is under warranty. Most air conditioners are accompanied by a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that usually 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 recommend fixing it.

Air Conditioner Cost

Most 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 lower or higher.

There are several factors that impact your total cost, like:

  • The air conditioner model you install, as more energy-efficient ones are pricier.
  • The size your home needs.
  • If you need to install new ductwork, which can be needed if your ductwork is old or inefficient.

We give free estimates at Gee & Missler Heating & Air Conditioning so you can be sure you’re getting a good deal. And with our complete range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that works with just about any budget.

Air Conditioner Size

Air conditioner size is crucial. A system that’s too little won’t be able to keep your house cool. And one that’s too large could turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This action can drive up your cooling costs and wear your air conditioner out faster. This could also create temperature inconsistencies and make your home feel less comfortable.

At Gee & Missler Heating & Air Conditioning, our professionals have many years of experience in accurately sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your house. The right size depends on how spacious your house is, plus a few other considerations. 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 considerations that can impact air conditioner size are:

  • The weather in Wyandotte.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows you have and the style, since expansive or picture windows might be more inefficient.
  • If your house has more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and concentration.
  • 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 number measures how proficiently it consumes electricity to create cooling. The greater the ranking, the more efficient the air conditioner is.

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

  • Old air conditioners are classified around 8-9 SEER.
  • Updated air conditioners start at 13 SEER. Ones installed in the southwest and southeast must be at least 14 SEER due to U.S. Department of Energy regulations. 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 additional features to help you save more. These features may involve variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at 100% constantly, these air conditioners can reduce blower speeds based on your cooling requirements. This results in quieter and more energy-efficient cooling. While an air conditioner with a greater SEER rating is typically more expensive, it might be eligible for valuable rebates. And the energy savings over its life span might help it pay for itself.

Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Gee & Missler Heating & Air Conditioning Right Away

When you’re researching air conditioning replacement, the company who puts it in is just as critical as the model you choose. Gee & Missler Heating & Air Conditioning is one of the most trusted names for air conditioning installation in Wyandotte. From helping you choose the recommended solution for your residence to discussing financing options to professional installation, collaborating with our pros is a breeze. Call us at 734-284-1224 to start right away!