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

When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Mount Horeb, we are aware that the expense is at the top of your list of questions. The good news is that installing a new air conditioner may be more reasonable than you think it is, thanks to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also enjoy improved energy efficiency, which will likely pay off over its life span through cheaper cooling bills.

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

When You Should Replace Your Air Conditioner

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

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is more than 10 years old. While some may run longer, most air conditioners last for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We recommend planning 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 change could save you 20-40% on cooling expenses.
  • You’ve neglected annual maintenance for many years. Just like a car, your cooling system needs routine air conditioning maintenance. Overlooking this critical service can lead to decreased efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a decreased life span.
  • Your air conditioner has to have frequent or expensive repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is often the consequence of not doing tune-ups But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to have a big problem. When repairs are more than half the cost of a new air conditioner, it’s time to get a new one.
  • Your residence is uncomfortable. If your residence feels too muggy or you’re having hot and cold spots in certain rooms, your air conditioner may be having a hard time keeping up. This is a sign you should replace it.
  • Your cooling bills are high. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it ages. As a result, it might need to work more often or longer to keep your home at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your home comfortable and cooling costs down.
  • Your air conditioner has R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was installed before 2010, there’s a good chance it runs on Freon. Also referred to as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being manufactured because of its detrimental effects on the environment. You can keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to develop a refrigerant leak, solving that would be extraordinarily expensive. This is since 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 smartest to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t common or economical. The smartest way to prevent unexpected repairs is to have yearly maintenance scheduled. 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 typically covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is up to your manufacturer, but it gives valuable protection in the event of a major failure. If your air conditioner is under warranty, we advise 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] vary.

There are several details that affect your total cost, including:

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

We provide free estimates at JW Brager Heating and Cooling so you can be sure 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 critical. A system that’s undersized will have difficulty keeping your residence cool. And one that’s too large might turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This act can drive up your energy expenses and wear your air conditioner out faster. This could also create temperature variability and make your home feel less cool.

At JW Brager Heating and Cooling, our techs have many years of experience in correctly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your home. The size you need depends on how spacious your home is, plus a couple 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 factors that can impact air conditioner size are:

  • The weather in Mount Horeb.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your home has and the style, as big or picture windows can be lower efficiency.
  • If your house has more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and depth.
  • How many people are in your family.

SEER Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is tied to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This ranking measures how well it consumes electricity to create cooling. The higher the number, the more efficient the air conditioner is.

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

  • Older air conditioners are classified around 8-9 SEER.
  • New 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 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 operating at 100% all the time, these air conditioners can fine-tune blower speeds customized for your cooling needs. This creates quieter and more energy-efficient comfort. While an air conditioner with a greater SEER rating is usually higher priced, it might be eligible for valuable rebates. And the energy savings over its life span may help it pay for itself.

Kickstart Your Air Conditioning Installation with JW Brager Heating and Cooling Right Away

When you’re researching air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as critical as the model you select. JW Brager Heating and Cooling is one of the most trusted names for air conditioning installation in Mount Horeb. From helping you choose the right solution for your house to discussing financing options to professional installation, collaborating with our pros is a breeze. Contact us at 608-447-0555 to start right away!