With ample maintenance, your air conditioner can last 15 years or more. But even the most well-maintained air conditioner will need to be updated eventually.

When you’re starting to plan for air conditioning installation in Odessa, we realize that cost is number one on your list of questions. The bright side is that buying a new air conditioner could be more economical 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 typically pay off over its life span through lower electricity bills.

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

When to Replace Your Air Conditioner

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

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is past 10 years old. While some could work longer, many air conditioners run for around 15 years with regular maintenance. We recommend planning for air conditioning replacement close to the 10-year age. Even if you install 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 routine maintenance for too long. Similar to a car, your cooling system requires routine air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this essential service can cause lower efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a decreased life span.
  • Your air conditioner has to have frequent or pricey repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is typically the result of skipping tune-ups But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to experience a big malfunction. When repairs are higher than half the cost of a new air conditioner, you should get a new one.
  • Your residence is uncomfortable. If your house feels too humid or you’re dealing with hot and cold spots in given areas, your air conditioner may be having difficulty keeping up. This is a sign you should replace it.
  • Your cooling bills are costly. Your air conditioner loses efficiency as it ages. Consequently, it might need to work more repeatedly or longer to keep your residence at your desired setting. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your house comfortable and utility expenses low.
  • Your air conditioner runs on R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was purchased before 2010, there’s a decent chance it has Freon. Also referred to as R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being manufactured as a result of its damaging effects on the environment. You can keep using your air conditioner, but if it were to develop a refrigerant leak, fixing 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 less than 10 years old. If your air conditioner is newer, it’s wisest to repair it.
  2. Repairs aren’t needed all the time or reasonable. The wisest way to prevent unanticipated repairs is to have regular work scheduled. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are economical, 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.

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 precise cost {might|could|may] be lower or higher.

There are a couple of aspects that affect your total cost, like:

  • The air conditioner model you choose, since more energy-efficient ones are higher priced.
  • The size your space needs.
  • If you need to replace your ductwork, which can be required if your ductwork is aging or damaged.

We offer free estimates at Redhawk Heating & Air Conditioning so you can be sure you’re getting a fantastic 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 too small will have difficulty keeping your home cool. And one that’s too big may turn on and off too many times, or short cycle. This act can inflate your energy bill and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This may also lead to temperature variability and make your residence feel less comfortable.

At Redhawk Heating & Air Conditioning, our professionals have many years of experience in properly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your home. The size you need depends on how big your home is, in addition to a few 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 considerations that can influence air conditioner size are:

  • The weather in Odessa.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your house has and the style, because expansive or picture windows can be more inefficient.
  • If your residence receives more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and depth.
  • How many people are in your household.

SEER Ratings

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

When you’re installing a new air conditioner, it’s essential to realize:

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

Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Redhawk Heating & Air Conditioning Now

When you’re preparing for air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as important as the model you choose. Redhawk Heating & Air Conditioning is one of the most trusted names for air conditioning installation in Odessa. From helping you select the ideal solution for your house to discussing financing options to professional installation, partnering with our professionals is a breeze. Call us at 432-237-0168 to begin today!