With adequate maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or more. But even the best maintained air conditioner will need to be removed eventually.

When you’re beginning to plan for air conditioning installation in Greater Richmond, we are aware that cost is at the top of your list of questions. The silver lining is that getting a new air conditioner could be more economical than you realize, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also get better energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over its life span through lower electricity bills.

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

When to Replace Your Air Conditioner

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

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is past 10 years old. While some could run longer, many air conditioners last for around 15 years with routine maintenance. We advise getting ready for air conditioning replacement near the 10-year mark. Even if you install a new one when it’s only a decade old, the U.S. Department of Energy says this tweak could save you 20-40% on cooling expenses.
  • You’ve neglected annual maintenance for a long time. Much like a car, your cooling system requires annual air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this critical service can cause diminished efficiency, more frequent repairs and even a shorter life span.
  • Your air conditioner needs frequent or expensive repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is frequently the consequence of skipping maintenance But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to have a catastrophic breakdown. When repairs are higher than half the cost of a new air conditioner, we recommend getting a new one.
  • Your home is uncomfortable. If your residence feels too humid or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots in certain rooms, your air conditioner might be having difficulty keeping up. This is a hint it’s time to replace it.
  • Your utility bills are expensive. Your air conditioner loses efficiency as it becomes older. Consequently, it could 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 house comfy and energy expenses low.
  • Your air conditioner uses R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was installed before 2010, there’s a good chance it has Freon. Also referred to as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being manufactured because of its bad effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to develop a refrigerant leak, repairing that would be extraordinarily 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 smartest to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t needed all the time or inexpensive. The smartest way to avoid emergency repairs is to have yearly work done. But when repairs are only needed not very often or are reasonable, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner is under warranty. Most air conditioners are accompanied by a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that often covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is up to your manufacturer, but it offers valuable protection in the event of a huge failure. If your air conditioner is protected by warranty, we recommend 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 exact cost {might|could|may] be lower or higher.

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

  • The air conditioner model you choose, because more energy-efficient ones are pricier.
  • The size your space needs.
  • If you need to replace your ductwork, which can happen if your ductwork is old or inefficient.

We provide free estimates at Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling so you can be sure you’re getting a good deal. And with our wide 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 essential. A system that’s too little won’t be able to keep your house cool. And one that’s too large may turn on and off too many times, or short cycle. This act can inflate your energy costs and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This could also lead to temperature instabilities and make your residence feel less cool.

At Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, our technicians have many years of experience in properly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your residence. The right size depends on how large your home is, plus several other factors. 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 considerations that can influence air conditioner size are:

  • The weather in Greater Richmond.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your house has and the style, because big or picture windows may be less efficient.
  • If your residence receives more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and depth.
  • How many people live in your home.

SEER Ratings

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

When you’re installing a new air conditioner, it’s important to know:

  • Old air conditioners are ranked around 8-9 SEER.
  • Updated 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 regulations. 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 additional features to help you save more. These features may involve variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at full blast continuously, these air conditioners can fine-tune blower speeds based on your cooling preferences. This creates quieter and more energy-efficient air conditioning. While an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating is typically pricier, it may be eligible for more rebates. And the energy savings over its life span may help it pay for itself.

Schedule Your Air Conditioning Installation with Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling Now

When you’re researching air conditioning replacement, the company who hooks it up is just as important as the model you choose. Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling is one of the most trusted names for air conditioning installation in Greater Richmond. From helping you find the ideal solution for your house to going over financing options to professional installation, working with our professionals is a breeze. Contact us at 804-302-6657 to start right away!