With ample maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or longer. But even the most meticulously maintained air conditioner will need to be removed eventually.
When you’re starting to plan for air conditioning installation in Odessa, we are aware that the expense is number one on your list of questions. The silver lining is that installing a new air conditioner may be more economical than you realize, due to rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also enjoy improved energy efficiency, which will typically pay off over the years through less expensive electrical 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 hard. Here’s what we recommend.
Replace
- Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some may run longer, the majority of air conditioners run for around 15 years with routine maintenance. We advise prepping for air conditioning replacement around the 10-year point. Even if you install a new one when it’s only a decade old, the U.S. Department of Energy says this change could save you 20-40% on cooling costs.
- You’ve neglected routine maintenance for too long. Similar to a car, you cooling system needs annual air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this crucial service can result in lower efficiency, more frequent repairs and even a decreased life span.
- Your air conditioner requires frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is usually the outcome of overlooking service. But as your air conditioner gets old, it’s more likely to suffer a big malfunction. When repairs are greater than half the cost of a new air conditioner, we recommend getting a new one.
- Your home is uncomfortable. If your house feels too humid or you’re having hot and cold spots in certain spaces, your air conditioner may be struggling to keep up. This is a hint you need to replace it.
- Your utility bills are high. Your air conditioner becomes less efficient as it ages. Consequently, it might need to work more frequently or longer to keep your home at your desired temp. Newer air conditioners have the top energy-efficient technology to keep your residence comfy and energy costs low.
- Your air conditioner runs on R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was purchased before 2010, there’s a decent chance it uses Freon. Also known as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being manufactured as a result of its detrimental 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 extraordinarly expensive. This is due to the fact R-22 is only available in limited, recycled portions.
Repair
- Your air conditioner is less than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s wisest to repair it.
- Repairs aren’t needed all the time or economical. The wisest way to avoid emergency repairs is to have annual work scheduled. But when repairs are only needed every so often or are inexpensive, repair your air conditioner.
- Your air conditioner has a valid warranty. Most air conditioners come with a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that often covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is determined by your manufacturer, but it provides valuable protection in the event of a big failure. If your air conditioner is covered by warranty, we suggest fixing it.
Air Conditioner Cost
The majority of 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 vary.
There are a few details that impact your total cost, such as:
- The air conditioner model you select, as more energy-efficient ones are pricier.
- The size your space needs.
- If you need to install new ductwork, which can happen if your ductwork is old or separated.
We provide free estimates at Redhawk Heating & Air Conditioning so you can be confident 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.
Air Conditioner Size
Air conditioner size is essential. A system that’s undersized will struggle to keep your house cool. And one that’s oversized could turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This behavior can increase your utility costs and wear your air conditioner out faster. This could also cause temperature variability and make your house feel less comfy.
At Redhawk Heating & Air Conditioning, our technicians have many years of experience in accurately sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your house. The size you need depends on how spacious your home is, in addition to a couple 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 factors that can impact air conditioner size are:
- The climate in Odessa
- Ductwork quality and age
- How many windows your home has and the style, as big or picture windows might be more inefficient
- If your home has more sun or shade
- Insulation quality and thickness
- How many people are in your family
SEER Ratings
Your air conditioner’s efficiency is tied to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This number measures how efficiently it uses electricity to create cooling. The higher the ranking, the more efficient the air conditioner is.
When you’re getting a new air conditioner, it’s crucial to be aware:
- Older air conditioners are rated around 8-9 SEER.
- Modern 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 mandates. 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 entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at full blast all the time, these air conditioners can reduce blower speeds adjusted for your cooling requirements. This results in quieter and more energy-efficient comfort. While an air conditioner with a higher SEER rating is often pricier, it might be eligible for additional rebates. And the energy savings over time could help it pay for itself.
Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Redhawk Heating & Air Conditioning Today
When you’re doing air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as critical as the model you go with. Redhawk Heating & Air Conditioning is one of the number one names for air conditioning installation in Odessa. From helping you choose the right solution for your home to discussing financing options to professional installation, collaborating with our pros is a breeze. Call us at 432-237-0168 to start today!