With ample maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or longer. But even the most well-maintained air conditioner will need to be updated down the road.

When you’re starting to plan for air conditioning installation in Northglenn, we know that the expense is number one on 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 lower electrical bills.

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

When to Replace Your Air Conditioner

Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner may be difficult. Here’s what our pros advise.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is past 10 years old. While some may work longer, the majority of air conditioners last for around 15 years with routine maintenance. We recommend planning for air conditioning replacement near 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 neglected annual maintenance for a long time. Similar to a car, your cooling system has to have regular air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this crucial service can cause lower efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a decreased life span.
  • Your air conditioner needs frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the outcome of overlooking service But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to have a big problem. When repairs are higher than half the cost of a new air conditioner, you should get a new one.
  • Your residence feels unpleasant. If your residence feels too humid or you’re having hot and cold spots in given spaces, your air conditioner might be having difficulty keeping up. This is a clue you need to replace it.
  • Your cooling bills are costly. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it becomes older. Consequently, it may need to work more often or longer to keep your home at your desired temp. Newer air conditioners have the top energy-efficient technology to keep your house comfortable and cooling 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 referred to as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being made because of its detrimental effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to develop a refrigerant leak, solving that would be very expensive. This is due to the fact 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 best way to stop unexpected repairs is to have regular maintenance completed. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are inexpensive, 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 up to your manufacturer, but it provides valuable protection in the event of a huge failure. If your air conditioner is under warranty, we advise 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 total cost {might|could|may] be different.

There are several factors that influence your total cost, including:

  • The air conditioner model you choose, since more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
  • The size you need.
  • If you need to replace your ductwork, which can be needed if your ductwork is old or separated.

We offer free estimates at Northglenn Heating & Air Conditioning so you can be confident you’re getting a great deal. And with our full 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 undersized will have difficulty keeping your home cool. And one that’s too big may turn on and off too many times, or short cycle. This behavior can inflate your cooling bill and wear your air conditioner out faster. This may also create temperature inconsistencies and make your house 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 size you need depends on how big your house is, plus several other considerations. Some of the most standard 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 climate in Northglenn.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows you have and the style, because big or picture windows might be more inefficient.
  • If your house gets more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and thickness.
  • How many people are in your family.

SEER Ratings

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

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

  • Old air conditioners are rated around 8-9 SEER.
  • Updated 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 include additional features to help you save more. These features may include variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at full speed continuously, these air conditioners can reduce blower speeds adjusted for your cooling needs. This leads to quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a greater SEER rating is typically more expensive, it could be eligible for more 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 Today

When you’re planning for air conditioning replacement, the company who puts it in is just as critical as the model you choose. Northglenn Heating & Air Conditioning is one of the number one names for air conditioning installation in Northglenn. From helping you find the right solution for your residence to reviewing financing options to professional installation, collaborating with our professionals is a breeze. Reach us at 303-452-4146 to start now!