With proper maintenance, your air conditioner can run for 15 years or more. But even the most well-maintained air conditioner will need to be replaced down the road.

When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Mobile, we are aware that the expense tops your list of questions. The good news is that installing a new air conditioner could be more affordable than you are aware, thanks to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also get better energy efficiency, which will typically pay off over its life span 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 can be hard. Here’s what our pros suggest.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is past 10 years old. While some might work longer, many air conditioners work for around 15 years with routine maintenance. We advise planning for air conditioning replacement close to the 10-year age. Even if you get 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 costs.
  • You’ve avoided annual maintenance for a long time. Similar to a car, your cooling system has to have annual air conditioning maintenance. Overlooking this crucial service can cause diminished efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a decreased life span.
  • Your air conditioner has to have frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is usually the consequence of skipping tune-ups But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to experience a catastrophic malfunction. When repairs are more than half the cost of a new air conditioner, we recommend getting a new one.
  • Your house feels unpleasant. If your home feels too humid or you’re dealing with hot and cold spots in certain areas, your air conditioner could be having a hard time keeping up. This is a clue it’s time to replace it.
  • Your cooling bills are expensive. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it becomes older. As a result, it could need to work more frequently or longer to keep your home at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the top energy-efficient technology to keep your residence comfortable and energy costs low.
  • Your air conditioner uses R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was purchased before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it uses Freon. Also known as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being manufactured because of its damaging effects on the environment. You can keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to have a refrigerant leak, repairing that would be very expensive. This is because R-22 is only available in limited, recycled amounts.

Repair

  1. Your air conditioner is under 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s wisest to repair it.
  2. Repairs are infrequent or reasonable. The best way to stop unexpected repairs is to have annual 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 come with a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that usually covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length depends on your manufacturer, but it offers valuable protection in the event of a huge failure. If your air conditioner is protected by warranty, we advise fixing it.

General Estimate of 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] vary.

There are a few factors that impact your total cost, such as:

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

We offer free estimates at Farnell Heating & Air Conditioning Inc 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 often, or short cycle. This behavior can increase your utility bill and wear your air conditioner out faster. This could also cause temperature inconsistencies and make your house feel less comfortable.

At Farnell Heating & Air Conditioning Inc, our technicians have many years of experience in accurately sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your residence. The right size depends on how big your residence 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 climate in Mobile.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows you have and the style, since big or picture windows can be more inefficient.
  • If your house receives more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and thickness.
  • How many people are in your family.

Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratings

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

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

  • Older air conditioners are classified around 8-9 SEER.
  • New 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 have additional features to help you save more. These features may entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at full speed constantly, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds adjusted for your cooling requirements. This results in quieter and more energy-efficient comfort. While an air conditioner with a greater SEER rating is often pricier, it may be eligible for more rebates. And the energy savings over its life span may help it pay for itself.

Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Farnell Heating & Air Conditioning Inc Now

When you’re planning for air conditioning replacement, the company who puts it in is just as essential as the model you go with. Farnell Heating & Air Conditioning Inc is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Mobile. From helping you choose the right solution for your home to going over financing options to professional installation, collaborating with us is a breeze. Call us at 251-471-2674 to start right away!