With adequate maintenance, your air conditioner can run for 15 years or more. But even the most well-maintained air conditioner will need to be replaced at some point.
When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Wilmington, we are aware that cost tops your list of questions. The good news is that getting a new air conditioner may be more economical than you are aware, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also get enhanced energy efficiency, which will typically pay off over the years through lower electricity bills.
Here’s what to prepare for when you’re getting a new air conditioner.
The Best Time to Schedule Air Conditioner Replacement
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 may work longer, many air conditioners last for around 15 years with routine maintenance. We recommend getting ready for air conditioning replacement around the 10-year mark. Even if you replace it when it’s only a decade old, the U.S. Department of Energy says this swap could save you 20-40% on cooling expenses.
- You’ve skipped regular maintenance for a long time. Much like a car, your cooling system has to have annual air conditioning maintenance. Overlooking this critical service can cause lower efficiency, more recurring repairs and even a shorter life span.
- Your air conditioner requires frequent or costly repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is usually the outcome of overlooking service But as your air conditioner gets older it’s more likely to suffer a big malfunction. When repairs are higher than half the cost of a new air conditioner, we recommend getting a new one.
- Your residence is uncomfortable. If your home feels too humid or you’re dealing with hot and cold spots in specific rooms, your air conditioner could be struggling to keep up. This is a hint you should replace it.
- Your utility bills are high. Your air conditioner loses efficiency as it ages. Consequently, it may need to work more often or longer to keep your residence at your desired setting. Newer air conditioners have the latest energy-efficient technology to keep your home comfy and energy expenses down.
- Your air conditioner uses R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was replaced before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it has Freon. Also called R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being manufactured due to 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 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 common or reasonable. The smartest way to avoid unanticipated repairs is to have yearly service completed. But when repairs are only needed intermittently or are inexpensive, repair your air conditioner.
- Your air conditioner has a valid warranty. Most air conditioners are accompanied by a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that typically covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is determined by your manufacturer, but it offers valuable protection in the event of a major failure. If your air conditioner is covered by warranty, we suggest fixing it.
Average 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 {might|could|may] be lower or higher.
There are several details that influence your total cost, including:
- The air conditioner model you choose, because more energy-efficient ones are more expensive.
- The size your home needs.
- If you need to replace your ductwork, which can be needed if your ductwork is dated or separated.
We give free estimates at Brandywine Heating & Air so you can know 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.
The Size of the AC System
Air conditioner size is crucial. A system that’s too small will have difficulty keeping your house cool. And one that’s too big might turn on and off too frequently, or short cycle. This action can increase your energy bill and wear your air conditioner out more quickly. This could also create temperature inconsistencies and make your house feel less cool.
At Brandywine Heating & Air, our professionals have many years of experience in correctly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your residence. The size you need depends on how spacious your home is, in addition to several other things. 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 factors that can influence air conditioner size are:
- The climate in Wilmington.
- Ductwork quality and age.
- How many windows your home has and the style, as expansive or picture windows may be more inefficient.
- If your home has more sun or shade.
- Insulation quality and concentration.
- How many people are in your household.
Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratings
Your air conditioner’s efficiency is linked to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This ranking measures how proficiently it transforms electricity to create cooling. The bigger the rating, the more efficient the air conditioner is.
When you’re getting a new air conditioner, it’s crucial to know:
- Older air conditioners are rated 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 come with more features to help you save more. These features may include variable-speed cooling. Instead of running at full blast all the time, these air conditioners can fine-tune blower speeds based on your cooling needs. This leads to quieter and more energy-efficient comfort. While an air conditioner with a better SEER rating is usually pricier, it could be eligible for additional rebates. And the energy savings over its lifetime could help it pay for itself.
Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Brandywine Heating & Air Right Away
When you’re researching air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as critical as the model you choose. Brandywine Heating & Air is one of the top names for air conditioning installation in Wilmington. From helping you find the right solution for your home to going over financing options to professional installation, collaborating with us is a breeze. Call us at 302-261-3596 to start now!