With adequate maintenance, your air conditioner can work for 15 years or more. But even the most well-maintained air conditioner will need to be replaced at some point.

When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Hodgenville, we are aware that the price is number one on your list of questions. The bright side is that installing a new air conditioner might be more economical than you realize, due to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also get enhanced energy efficiency, which will typically pay off over time through lower cooling bills.

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

When You Should Replace Your Air Conditioner

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

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is more than 10 years old. While some might work longer, most air conditioners last for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We advise planning 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 swap could save you 20-40% on cooling bills.
  • You’ve avoided annual maintenance for too long. Just like a car, your cooling system requires routine air conditioning maintenance. Skipping this crucial service can result in lower efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a decreased life span.
  • Your air conditioner needs frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is usually the result of not doing tune-ups But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to experience a catastrophic problem. When repairs are greater than half the cost of a new air conditioner, it’s time to get a new one.
  • Your home is uncomfortable. If your residence feels too humid or you’re having hot and cold spots in certain rooms, your air conditioner may be having difficulty keeping up. This is a hint it’s time to replace it.
  • Your utility bills are high. Your air conditioner becomes less efficient as it gets older. Consequently, it might need to work more frequently or longer to keep your residence at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the most up-to-date energy-efficient technology to keep your home comfortable and electrical costs reasonable.
  • Your air conditioner has R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was installed before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it has Freon. Also referred to as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being manufactured because of its damaging effects on the environment. You can keep using 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 amounts.

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 needed all the time or economical. The best way to stop unanticipated repairs is to have annual work scheduled. But when repairs are only needed every so often or are economical, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner is covered by a warranty. Most air conditioners are accompanied by a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that typically covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is determined by your manufacturer, but it offers valuable protection in the event of a major failure. If your air conditioner is covered by warranty, we advise fixing it.

Average Air Conditioner Cost

Many 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 precise cost {might|could|may] vary.

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

  • The air conditioner model you select, since more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
  • The size your home needs.
  • If you need to install new ductwork, which can happen if your ductwork is old or damaged.

We offer free estimates at Phelps Heating & Cooling, Inc. so you can know you’re getting a fantastic 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 essential. 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 frequently, or short cycle. This behavior can drive up your cooling costs and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This might also lead to temperature instabilities and make your house feel less cool.

At Phelps Heating & Cooling, Inc., our techs have many years of experience in properly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your residence. The ideal size depends on how large your home is, in addition to 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 affect air conditioner size are:

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

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratings

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

When you’re installing a new air conditioner, it’s essential to realize:

  • Old air conditioners are classified around 8-9 SEER.
  • Modern 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 have additional features to help you save more. These features may involve variable-speed cooling. Instead of going at 100% all the time, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds customized for your cooling requirements. This creates quieter and more energy-efficient cooling. While an air conditioner with a better SEER rating is typically pricier, it might be eligible for valuable rebates. And the energy savings over its life span could help it pay for itself.

Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Phelps Heating & Cooling, Inc. Today

When you’re researching air conditioning replacement, the company who puts it in is just as critical as the model you choose. Phelps Heating & Cooling, Inc. is one of the most trusted names for air conditioning installation in Hodgenville. From helping you choose the recommended solution for your house to going over financing options to professional installation, working with our pros is a breeze. Reach us at 270-358-3167 to begin today!