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

When you’re beginning to plan for air conditioning installation in Northglenn, we realize that the expense is at the top of your list of questions. The silver lining is that installing a new air conditioner might be more economical than you realize, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also get improved energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over time through less expensive electrical bills.

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

The Best Time to Replace Your Air Conditioner

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

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is past 10 years old. While some may last longer, most air conditioners work for around 15 years with annual maintenance. We recommend prepping for air conditioning replacement around 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 expenses.
  • You’ve avoided annual maintenance for a long time. Just like a car, your cooling system has to have regular air conditioning maintenance. Skipping this essential service can lead to decreased efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a shorter life span.
  • Your air conditioner requires frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is usually the outcome of overlooking tune-ups But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to experience a catastrophic breakdown. When repairs are greater than half the cost of a new air conditioner, you should get a new one.
  • Your residence feels unpleasant. If your house feels too muggy or you’re dealing with hot and cold spots in specific areas, your air conditioner could be having a hard time keeping up. This is a sign you should replace it.
  • Your utility bills are high. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it gets older. Consequently, it might need to run more often or longer to keep your home at your desired temp. Newer air conditioners have the most up-to-date energy-efficient technology to keep your home comfy and electrical expenses reasonable.
  • Your air conditioner has R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was replaced before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it runs on Freon. Also known as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being made due to its detrimental effects on the environment. You can keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to experience a refrigerant leak, repairing that would be extraordinarily expensive. This is due to the fact R-22 is only available in limited, recycled quantities.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is less than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s wisest to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t common or reasonable. The smartest way to stop unexpected repairs is to have annual maintenance scheduled. But when repairs are only needed every so often or are reasonable, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner is covered by a warranty. Most air conditioners come with a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that often covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is up to your manufacturer, but it provides valuable protection in the event of a huge failure. If your air conditioner is under warranty, we recommend fixing it.

Average 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 total cost {might|could|may] be lower or higher.

There are several details that affect your total cost, such as:

  • The air conditioner model you choose, since more energy-efficient ones are pricier.
  • The size you need.
  • If you need to put in new ductwork, which can be required if your ductwork is aging or inefficient.

We provide free estimates at Northglenn Heating & Air Conditioning so you can be confident you’re getting a fantastic deal. And with our wide range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that works with just about any budget.

Air Conditioner Size

Air conditioner size is critical. A system that’s too small will have difficulty keeping 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 energy expenses and wear your air conditioner out prematurely. This may also cause temperature inconsistencies and make your residence feel less comfy.

At Northglenn 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, in addition to a couple other things. 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 things that can affect air conditioner size are:

  • The weather in Northglenn.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your home has and the style, because expansive or picture windows might be more inefficient.
  • If your home gets more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and concentration.
  • How many people are in your household.

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratings

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

When you’re getting a new air conditioner, it’s essential to be aware:

  • Dated air conditioners are ranked around 8-9 SEER.
  • Modern 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 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 come with extra features to help you save more. These features may include variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at full blast all the time, these air conditioners can reduce blower speeds adjusted for your cooling requirements. This leads to quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a greater SEER rating is often higher priced, it may 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 Northglenn Heating & Air Conditioning Now

When you’re preparing for air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as essential as the model you go with. Northglenn Heating & Air Conditioning is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Northglenn. From helping you select the recommended solution for your residence to discussing financing options to professional installation, partnering with our pros is a breeze. Call us at 303-452-4146 to get started today!