With proper maintenance, your air conditioner can run for 15 years or more. But even the most meticulously maintained air conditioner will need to be replaced down the road.
When you’re beginning to plan for air conditioning installation in Albuquerque, we are aware that cost tops your list of questions. The good news is that installing a new air conditioner might be more reasonable than you think it is, thanks to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also receive improved energy efficiency, which will usually pay off over its life span through lower electricity bills.
Here’s what to prepare for when you’re replacing your air conditioner.
When to Replace Your Air Conditioner
Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner may be difficult. Here’s what we suggest.
Replace
- Your air conditioner is more than 10 years old. While some could work longer, the majority of air conditioners last for around 15 years with regular maintenance. We suggest getting ready for air conditioning replacement near the 10-year mark. Even if you replace it when it’s only a decade old, the U.S. Department of Energy says this change could save you 20-40% on cooling bills.
- You’ve neglected annual maintenance for many years. Much like a car, you cooling system has to have annual air conditioning maintenance. Overlooking this essential service can lead to lower efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a decreased life span.
- Your air conditioner has to have frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is often the consequence of skipping tune-ups. But as your air conditioner ages, it’s more likely to suffer a catastrophic malfunction. When repairs are more than half the cost of a new air conditioner, it’s time to get a new one.
- Your house is uncomfortable. If your house feels too muggy or you’re having hot and cold spots in given spaces, your air conditioner could be struggling to keep up. This is a clue it’s time to replace it.
- Your energy bills are costly. Your air conditioner loses efficiency as it ages. As a consequence, it may need to work more often or longer to keep your residence at your desired temp. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your residence cool and energy costs reasonable.
- Your air conditioner has R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was installed before 2010, there’s a good chance it uses Freon. Also called R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being made because of its damaging effects on the environment. You can keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to have a refrigerant leak, fixing that would be extremely expensive. This is since R-22 is only available in limited, recycled quantities.
Repair
- Your air conditioner is under 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s best to repair it.
- Repairs are infrequent or economical. The wisest way to avoid emergency repairs is to have regular service completed. But when repairs are only needed every so often or are economical, repair your air conditioner.
- 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 up to your manufacturer, but it provides valuable protection in the event of a huge failure. If your air conditioner is protected by warranty, we suggest 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 exact cost may be different.
There are several details that impact your total cost, like:
- The air conditioner model you install, because more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
- The size your space needs.
- If you need to install new ductwork, which can be needed if your ductwork is old or damaged.
We provide free estimates at I-Deal HVAC so you can be confident you’re getting a great 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 crucial. A system that’s too small will have difficulty keeping your house cool. And one that’s oversized may turn on and off too often, or short cycle. This act can drive up your energy costs and wear your air conditioner out faster. This could also create temperature variability and make your home feel less comfortable.
At I-Deal HVAC, our techs have many years of experience in properly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your house. The size you need depends on how large your house is, plus several other things. 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 things that can influence air conditioner size are:
- The temperatures in Albuquerque
- Ductwork quality and age
- How many windows your house has and the style, because expansive or picture windows might be lower efficiency
- If your residence receives more sun or shade
- Insulation quality and thickness
- How many people live in your home
SEER Ratings
Your air conditioner’s efficiency is linked to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This number measures how proficiently it uses electricity to create cooling. The greater the rating, the more efficient the air conditioner is.
When you’re installing a new air conditioner, it’s important to realize:
- Old air conditioners are rated 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 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 more features to help you save more. These features may include variable-speed cooling. Instead of running at full blast continuously, these air conditioners can adjust blower speeds based on your cooling preferences. This leads to quieter and more energy-efficient cooling. While an air conditioner with a better SEER rating is usually more expensive, it might be eligible for valuable rebates. And the energy savings over time could help it pay for itself.
Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with I-Deal HVAC Today
When you’re preparing for air conditioning replacement, the company who puts it in is just as important as the model you choose. I-Deal HVAC is one of the number one names for air conditioning installation in Albuquerque. From helping you find the recommended solution for your house to going over financing options to professional installation, collaborating with our pros is a breeze. Contact us at 505-445-1250 to start today!