With ample maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or greater. But even the best maintained air conditioner will need to be removed at some point.

When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Greater Richmond, we know that the price tops your list of questions. The bright side is that installing a new air conditioner may be more reasonable than you think it is, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also receive better energy efficiency, which will likely pay off over time through cheaper electricity bills.

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

When You Should Consider Replacing Your Air Conditioner

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

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is past 10 years old. While some could work longer, the majority of air conditioners run for around 15 years with regular maintenance. We suggest getting ready 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 routine maintenance for many years. Similar to a car, your cooling system has to have regular air conditioning maintenance. Skipping this essential service can cause diminished efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a shorter life span.
  • Your air conditioner has to have frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is frequently the outcome of overlooking service But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to suffer a major malfunction. When repairs are more than half the cost of a new air conditioner, it’s time to get a new one.
  • Your home feels unpleasant. If your house feels too muggy or you’re dealing with hot and cold spots in given rooms, your air conditioner might be having difficulty keeping up. This is a hint you should replace it.
  • Your energy bills are expensive. Your air conditioner becomes less efficient as it ages. Consequently, it may need to work more repeatedly or longer to keep your home at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the most up-to-date energy-efficient technology to keep your house comfortable and utility bills down.
  • Your air conditioner uses R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was installed before 2010, there’s a decent chance it has Freon. Also referred to as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being made due to its detrimental effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to experience a refrigerant leak, solving 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 no more than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s ideal to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t needed all the time or reasonable. The smartest way to prevent unanticipated repairs is to have regular maintenance done. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are economical, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner is under warranty. Most air conditioners include a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that often covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is determined by your manufacturer, but it offers valuable protection in the event of a big failure. If your air conditioner is protected by warranty, we suggest fixing it.

General Estimate of Air Conditioner Cost

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

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

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

We offer free estimates at Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling so you can be sure you’re getting a good deal. And with our complete range of air conditioners, there’s an energy-efficient model that accommodates just about any budget.

The Size of the AC System

Air conditioner size is critical. A system that’s too small won’t be able to keep your house cool. And one that’s too big might turn on and off too many times, or short cycle. This action can inflate your energy bill and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This could also create temperature variability and make your residence feel less cool.

At Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, our techs have many years of experience in accurately sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your home. The ideal size depends on how spacious your home is, in addition to several 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 considerations that can impact air conditioner size are:

  • The weather in Greater Richmond.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your house has and the style, as big or picture windows may be less efficient.
  • If your house gets more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and depth.
  • How many people are in your household.

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratings

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

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

  • Dated air conditioners are classified around 8-9 SEER.
  • Updated 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 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 come with more features to help you save more. These features may include variable-speed cooling. Instead of running at full speed constantly, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds customized for your cooling needs. This creates quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a better SEER rating is often higher priced, it might be eligible for more rebates. And the energy savings over its life span may help it pay for itself.

Request a Free Quote for Your Air Conditioning Installation with Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling Now

When you’re preparing for air conditioning replacement, the company who hooks it up is just as critical as the model you go with. Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Greater Richmond. From helping you select the right solution for your residence to reviewing financing options to professional installation, working with us is a breeze. Call us at 804-302-6657 to get started today!