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

When you’re beginning to plan for air conditioning installation in Norton, we are aware that cost is at the top of your list of questions. The good news is that buying a new air conditioner could be more economical than you realize, thanks to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also enjoy improved energy efficiency, which will likely pay off over time through cheaper electricity bills.

Here’s what to prepare for when you’re getting a new air conditioner.

When to Replace Your Air Conditioner

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

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some could run longer, the majority of air conditioners last for around 15 years with routine maintenance. We recommend planning for air conditioning replacement close to the 10-year point. Even if you replace it 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 skipped regular maintenance for a long time. Much like a car, your cooling system has to have regular air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this essential service can result in lower efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a reduced life span.
  • Your air conditioner requires frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the result of skipping service But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to have a major breakdown. When repairs are greater than half the cost of a new air conditioner, it’s time to get a new one.
  • Your residence feels unpleasant. If your house feels too humid or you’re having hot and cold spots in specific rooms, your air conditioner may be having difficulty keeping up. This is a hint it’s time to replace it.
  • Your utility bills are costly. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it ages. Consequently, it could need to work more repeatedly or longer to keep your house at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the top energy-efficient technology to keep your home comfortable and utility bills low.
  • Your air conditioner uses R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was replaced before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it has Freon. Also called R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being produced because of its damaging 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 very expensive. This is because R-22 is only available in limited, recycled portions.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is less than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s best to repair it.
  2. Repairs are infrequent or economical. The wisest way to stop emergency repairs is to have annual work done. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are reasonable, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner has a valid warranty. Most air conditioners come with a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that typically covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length depends on your manufacturer, but it gives valuable protection in the event of a huge failure. If your air conditioner is under warranty, we suggest fixing it.

Air Conditioner Cost

Most homeowners spend around $4,631 on a new air conditioner, according to 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 several factors that affect your total cost, including:

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

We provide free estimates at HCE Systems so you can be confident you’re getting a good deal. And with our full range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that fits just about any budget.

Air Conditioner Size

Air conditioner size is essential. A system that’s too small will have difficulty keeping your house cool. And one that’s too big could turn on and off too many times, or short cycle. This action can drive up your utility costs and wear your air conditioner out faster. This could also cause temperature instabilities and make your home feel less comfy.

At HCE Systems, our professionals have many years of experience in correctly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your residence. The right size depends on how large your home 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 factors that can affect air conditioner size are:

  • The climate in Norton.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your home has and the style, since big or picture windows might be less efficient.
  • If your home has more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and concentration.
  • How many people are in your household.

SEER Ratings

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

When you’re getting a new air conditioner, it’s crucial to know:

  • Older air conditioners are ranked around 8-9 SEER.
  • New 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 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 extra features to help you save more. These features may involve variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at full blast constantly, these air conditioners can fine-tune blower speeds based on your cooling requirements. This leads to quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a better SEER rating is often more expensive, it might be eligible for extra rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime might help it pay for itself.

Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with HCE Systems 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. HCE Systems is one of the number one names for air conditioning installation in Norton. From helping you choose the recommended solution for your house to going over financing options to professional installation, partnering with our pros is a breeze. Call us at 276-302-0076 to get started right away!