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

When you’re getting started planning for air conditioning installation in Pella, we know 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, because of rebates, our special offers and financing for qualified customers. You’ll also enjoy better energy efficiency, which will likely pay off over time through less expensive electrical bills.

Here’s what to expect when you’re getting a new air conditioner.

When to Replace Your Air Conditioner

Knowing when to repair or replace your air conditioner can be hard. Here’s what our pros advise.

Replace

  • Your air conditioner is older than 10 years old. While some could last longer, the majority of air conditioners work for around 15 years with regular maintenance. We suggest getting ready for air conditioning replacement around 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 expenses.
  • You’ve avoided regular maintenance for a long time. Just like a car, your cooling system needs annual air conditioning maintenance. Not doing this critical service can lead to diminished efficiency, more persistent repairs and even a decreased life span.
  • Your air conditioner requires frequent or expensive repairs. Needing air conditioning repair is often the result of not doing service But as your air conditioner ages it’s more likely to experience a major 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 home feels too humid or you’re having hot and cold spots in specific spaces, your air conditioner could be having difficulty keeping up. This is a sign it’s time to replace it.
  • Your utility bills are high. Your air conditioner gets less efficient as it ages. As a result, it may need to work more repeatedly or longer to keep your residence at your desired temperature. Newer air conditioners have the most up-to-date energy-efficient technology to keep your home comfy and cooling costs low.
  • Your air conditioner has R-22 refrigerant. If your air conditioner was purchased before 2010, there’s a high likelihood it uses Freon. Also called R-22, this refrigerant is no longer being produced due to its bad effects on the environment. You can continue to use your air conditioner, but if it were to have 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 no more 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 economical. The best way to avoid unanticipated repairs is to have annual maintenance completed. But when repairs are only needed every so often or are inexpensive, repair your air conditioner.
  3. Your air conditioner is under warranty. Most air conditioners include a 5- to 10-year limited warranty that usually covers the compressor. Your exact warranty length is determined by your manufacturer, but it offers valuable protection in the event of a huge failure. If your air conditioner is protected by warranty, we suggest fixing it.

Air Conditioner Cost

The majority of 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] vary.

There are several details that impact your total cost, such as:

  • The air conditioner model you select, since more energy-efficient ones are pricier.
  • The size your space needs.
  • If you need to put in new ductwork, which can happen if your ductwork is dated or inefficient.

We give free estimates at Van Haaften Plumbing & Heating so you can be sure you’re getting a fantastic deal. And with our complete 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 little won’t be able to keep your house cool. And one that’s oversized might turn on and off too many times, or short cycle. This action can increase your utility bill and wear your air conditioner out prematurely. This might also create temperature variability and make your residence feel less comfortable.

At Van Haaften Plumbing & Heating, our professionals have many years of experience in properly sizing and installing the right air conditioner for your home. The right size depends on how spacious your house is, along with a couple other factors. 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 things that can impact air conditioner size are:

  • The climate in Pella.
  • Ductwork quality and age.
  • How many windows your home has and the style, because big or picture windows might be less efficient.
  • If your home receives more sun or shade.
  • Insulation quality and depth.
  • How many people are in your household.

SEER Ratings

Your air conditioner’s efficiency is linked to its SEER, or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating. This number measures how well it consumes electricity to create cooling. The greater the rating, 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 ranked around 8-9 SEER.
  • Updated 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 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 extra features to help you save more. These features may entail variable-speed cooling. Instead of operating at full speed continuously, these air conditioners can fine-tune blower speeds customized for your cooling requirements. This creates quieter and more energy-efficient cooling. While an air conditioner with a greater SEER rating is often pricier, it could be eligible for valuable rebates. And the energy savings over its life span might help it pay for itself.

Start Your Air Conditioning Installation with Van Haaften Plumbing & Heating Now

When you’re preparing for air conditioning replacement, the company who installs it is just as important as the model you choose. Van Haaften Plumbing & Heating is one of the most trusted names for air conditioning installation in Pella. From helping you select the recommended solution for your home to discussing financing options to professional installation, partnering with our pros is a breeze. Contact us at 641-628-3621 to begin right away!